Federal news
MLA signs onto CHLA ABSC statement on the importance of hospital libraries [MLAConnect, 6/1/2021]
This statement outlines the role hospital libraries play in the provision of evidence-based health care, and our concern and disappointment regarding the continued decommissioning, closure, underfunding, and understaffing of hospital libraries. The statement will be sent to politicians, hospital leaders, professional associations and others, as well as shared to the CHLA/ABSC [The Canadian Health Libraries Association/Association des bibliothèques de la santé du Canada] social media and website.
Democrats in both chambers launch public option effort [Roll Call, 5/26/2021]
Bills passed
S.937 COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act [became Public Law No. 117-3 on 5/20/2021]
To facilitate the expedited review of COVID-19 hate crimes, and for other purposes. DOJ and the Department of Health and Human Services must issue guidance aimed at raising awareness of hate crimes during the COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.
H.R.941 TRANSPLANT Act of 2021 [became Public Law No. 117-15 on 5/26/2021]
To reauthorize the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005, and for other purposes.
State News
House Bill 158 was signed into law in April as Public Act 102-0004 – HEALTH CARE & HUMAN SERVICES. Ruby Mendenhall answers questions and provides highlights from the act in this brief interview. Mendenhall is a University of Illinois professor of African American studies and sociology and the assistant dean for diversity and democratization of health innovation at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine.
The Illinois Library Association has gathered together the information you need regarding American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for Illinois libraries.