CHICAGO — State Senator Ram Villivalam is encouraging organizations to apply for the fifth round of funding for the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades.

“The trade industry is the backbone of our community – these are the people working to ensure everyone has electricity, building hospitals and schools, or creating something new for us all to enjoy,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we continue to invest in the trades and uplift opportunities like the pre-apprenticeship program.”

SPRINGFIELD — As artificial intelligence continues to become more widely used, State Senator Ram Villivalam is leading the charge with a new law ensuring those seeking mental health treatment are safeguarded from loopholes allowing AI in health care.

“It is imperative that we provide our communities with the critical mental health support they need and are seeking,” said Villivalam. “By setting guidelines for the use of AI in mental health treatment, we are investing into the well-being of communities, the quality of care they receive and the standards we hold our mental health care professionals to.”

SPRINGFIELD — To assist schools when scheduling major school or athletic events, State Senator Ram Villivalam championed a law that will provide schools with calendar dates indicating when a portion of students may be absent due to cultural or religious reasons.

“The 8^th District is a diverse community where portions of the student body may be absent due to cultural or religious holidays throughout the school year,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we continue to support our students and their ability to participate in events outside of the school calendar. This law ensures schools and athletic associations are provided with the information needed when scheduling events.”

SPRINGFIELD — Following eight subject matter hearings with over 35 hours of testimony, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed legislation through the Senate aimed at addressing issues facing the current public transit system in Illinois.

“Over the last 19 months, I have collaborated and held discussions with stakeholders, advocates, transit workers and everyday riders about the state of transit, issues currently facing the system and what we can do to improve service for its riders,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It’s imperative that we deliver a public transit system that provides reliable service for its riders and is accountable to our taxpayers. Now is the time to break through the status quo and embrace solutions made for lasting change.”