Illinois State Senator Craig Wilcox announced on Mar. 17 several recent initiatives and legislative efforts in his latest Capitol Report. These include the success of a non-perishable food drive, support for new legislation to protect children from exploitation, the launch of an essay contest for students, and updates on expanded eligibility for ABLE accounts.
Wilcox said the recent food drive collected donations that benefited the Spring Grove Food Pantry and the Northern Illinois Helping Hands Food Pantry. He thanked all who contributed, with special recognition to Prairie Ridge High School junior Bryce Schroeder for organizing a large donation through his school’s Club America. “During the cold months, food pantries often run low on supplies while demand for assistance remains quite high. It was a pleasure to help restock the shelves at these two pantries that serve hundreds of families from this region,” Wilcox said.
The senator also reported his support for a legislative package aimed at strengthening protections for children against trafficking, grooming, sexual exploitation, and predatory offenders. The package includes Senate Bill 284 (Andrew’s Law), which would eliminate plea deals for certain offenses involving minors; Senate Bill 1572 to increase penalties for human trafficking; and Senate Bill 2381 requiring sex offender registration in cases of unauthorized video recording of minors if sexually motivated. “Protecting children must remain a top priority, and Illinois laws should reflect the seriousness and lasting harm caused by trafficking, grooming, and sexual exploitation,” Wilcox said.
In addition to legislative work, Wilcox launched his third annual “My Inspirational Teacher” Essay Contest for students in grades six through eight in the 32nd Senate District. Students are invited to write essays about teachers who have inspired them most. Winning essays will be displayed at the State Capitol rotunda in Springfield during Teacher Appreciation Week in May.
Wilcox also highlighted new legislation introduced to create the Illinois Pediatric Cancer Fund under Senate Bill 3954. The fund would support research grants focused on childhood cancer prevention and treatment across Illinois. The Department of Healthcare and Family Services would oversee grant distribution and report annually on progress.
Finally, Wilcox shared news from the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office regarding expanded eligibility for ABLE accounts following changes to federal law. Beginning in 2026, individuals who acquire disabilities before age 46 will be eligible to open ABLE accounts—up from the previous age limit of 26—allowing more people with disabilities to save money without risking access to federal benefits such as Supplemental Security Income or Medicaid.
Wilcox was elected as a Republican state senator representing Illinois’ 32nd District in 2018 after replacing Pamela Althoff according to available information.
