SPRINGFIELD — According to Forbes, 30% of teachers are concerned about job displacement by artificial intelligence in schools. A bill sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio and State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid would protect the jobs of Illinois teachers from being taken by AI.

“Illinois teachers are invaluable to our communities and to our students,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This legislation upholds our commitment to our teachers and protects them from being replaced by advancing technology.”

On Wednesday night, two Israeli Embassy aides were murdered in Washington D.C.  State Senator Mike Porfirio issued the following statement in response: 

“I stand against all forms of hate crimes, violence and antisemitism," said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). "The murder of the Israeli Embassy staff in Washington, D.C. last night is unacceptable and horrible. My heart goes out to the families of the victims.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio is leading a bill to help lower the risks of suicide among first responders who face disproportionate mental health struggles due to challenges they encounter on the job.

“Our first responders are heroes who face unique risks and traumatic experiences while they fight to protect their community,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Maintaining a task force with members who are knowledgeable about experiences our first responders go through will help us understand how we can curb suicide risks among first responders.”

Our society has no room for harmful rhetoric that targets and marginalizes Muslim and Arab communities. We must reject islamophobia in all its forms, as it only serves to divide us. Elected officials must lead by example and use their platform to protect the values we cherish, including dignity and respect for all. It is our duty to continue working together to confront harmful stereotypes and build communities rooted in understanding and acceptance.