Welcome to Senator Linda Holmes' legislative website

Holmes’ new law gives family courts guidance to resolve pet custody when domestic partners split

• Pet Possession Conflicts
• Unmarried Partners
• HB4540

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes remains steadfast in pursuing legislation to improve living conditions for animals, as her measure providing statutory guidance to Illinois courts when considering pet possession when unmarried couples break up was signed into law Friday.

“Legislators observe how residents’ lives change as society’s norms evolve. Today, most families see their pets as adored family members rather than property,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “If the future residence of a companion animal is in question when family members separate, the courts need guidance to consider the best outcome for the animal’s consistent caregiving and comfort.”

Read more …

Holmes secures over $682,000 for 11 area libraries

• ILSOS Library Grants
• Library Services and Programs

AURORA – State Senator Linda Holmes announced five area public libraries and six school district libraries are set to receive a combined total of more than $682,000 for library services and programming.

“Our public and school libraries are more important than ever, serving as vibrant community hubs and cutting-edge technology centers," said Holmes (D-Aurora). "Grants tailored for libraries are an incredible way to empower and engage all ages, abilities and interests of the communities they serve."

Read more …

Illinois protects wild animals from exploitation in abusive roadside “zoos,” thanks to Holmes’ new law

• Animal Welfare
• Traveling Animal Acts
• HB4255

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Linda Holmes maintains her ongoing commitment to lead legislation to restrict owners of traveling animal acts from using wild animals in their shows. Her latest measure adding specific breeds to the list of banned species was signed into law Friday.

“These animals spend most of their lives in cramped, soiled cages, in severe and chronic stress,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “Extended periods in confinement and forced training to perform dangerous stunts are frightening and unnatural for them. In 2017, I passed legislation banning the use of elephants in circuses and other traveling exhibitions that do not provide adequate living conditions, and we’ve added more species to the ban over the years.”

Read more …

Sen. Holmes releases statement on her retirement from the Illinois State Senate

• Retirement

AURORA – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) released the following statement announcing her retirement from the Illinois State Senate:

“After 20 years of serving the people of Illinois’ 42nd District, I have made the difficult decision to retire from the Illinois State Senate at the end of my current term.

“Living with Multiple Sclerosis for the past 37 years has shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to public service. While I have been fortunate to manage this disease for many years with few symptoms, it is now time for me to slow down and focus on my health. 

Read more …