CHICAGO – The House Democratic AI Working Group, chaired by state Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz, D-Glenview, held a subject matter hearing on Monday, May 4, to discuss efforts to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) in order to protect consumers and safeguard elections in Illinois.

“These discussions are about protecting consumers and ensuring fairness in our state’s liability statutes,” Gong-Gershowitz said. “AI-powered technologies are no longer simply an emerging technology, they’re impacting almost every aspect of our lives right now.”

Four bills were discussed during the hearing, all pertaining to AI regulation and consumer protection.

Gong-Gershowitz’s House Bill 4557 would create the Digital Forgeries in Politics Act, which places new disclosure requirements on the use of digital manipulation in images, video and audio in political advertising. 

“When voters can no longer trust what they see and hear, democracy itself is at risk,” Gong-Gershowitz said. “AI-generated deepfakes of political candidates and elected officials are not a distant threat — they are already being weaponized to deceive the public, suppress participation and undermine elections. HB4557 draws a clear line: if you use artificial intelligence to fabricate the words or likeness of a political figure to deceive voters, there will be consequences. Illinoisans deserve to make their voices heard based on facts.”

House Bill 5044, also by Gong-Gershowitz, would create the Chatbot Provider Liability Act, defining chatbots as products and establishing that providers have a duty to ensure that the use of a chatbot does not cause injury to a user.

“We have always held manufacturers accountable when their products cause serious harm — and an AI chatbot is a product,” Gong-Gershowitz said. “When companies deploy these systems knowing they have the potential to deceive, manipulate or injure the people who interact with them, they should be held to exactly the same standard we apply to any other dangerous product under Illinois law,” Gong-Gershowitz said. “This legislation closes a loophole that Big Tech has been counting on. If your chatbot causes real harm, you bear real responsibility — full stop.”

State Rep. Daniel Didech’s House Bill 4705 would create the Artificial Intelligence Public Safety and Child Protection Transparency Act, requiring frontier AI developers and large chatbot providers to create a public safety and child protection plan.

“The pace of AI development and the capabilities of frontier models are accelerating, and the General Assembly has an obligation to ensure that Illinois residents are protected from catastrophic outcomes,” Didech said. “This legislation puts enforceable guardrails in place so Big Tech companies must prioritize safety, be transparent about the risks tied to their systems and take responsibility for preventing serious harm, especially when it comes to protecting children.”

State Rep. Maura Hirschauer’s House Bill 5756, would create the Algorithmic Pricing Transparency Act, requiring online retailers to disclose their use of “surveillance pricing”—a growing phenomena that uses artificial intelligence-powered tools to charge higher prices for certain customers based on a user’s personal data.

“House Bill 5756 prioritizes transparency and fairness,” Hirschauer said. “This legislation makes clear that pricing powered by personal data cannot happen in the shadows. By requiring disclosure, banning the use of sensitive information, and guaranteeing an opt-out, we are putting fairness and accountability back into the marketplace.”

The House Democratic AI Working Group was established by Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch earlier this year in order to launch a multifaceted approach to AI policy in Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Today, Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch announced that State Rep. Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove) will be appointed to serve as Chairman of the House Gaming Committee for the 103^rd General Assembly.

The Gaming Committee will exercise oversight and consider legislation that impacts Illinois’ casinos, racetracks, lottery, sports betting, and video gaming establishments.

“Gaming generates a substantial amount of state revenue that supports our schools, infrastructure, and local services,” said Didech. “In this position, my focus will be on maintaining a robust gaming economy that protects players, creates good jobs, and positively impacts communities throughout Illinois.”

Before serving in the legislature, Didech played poker professionally from 2006-2011 and was also a licensed thoroughbred owner.

“My experience in this area will bring a unique perspective to our oversight and legislative duties,” said Didech. “I have seen firsthand the importance of building a responsible, regulated, and taxed gaming industry that puts players first and cracks down on predatory actors.”

Recently elected to his 3rd term in the House, Didech represents communities in Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Mundelein, Wheeling, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Indian Creek, Mettawa, Park City, Waukegan, and unincorporated areas of Vernon Township and Fremont Township.

LAKE COUNTY, Ill. — State Rep. Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove) has introduced legislation that would provide academic credit to college students who serve as election judges in Illinois. The bill, known as HB 995, aims to address the shortage of election judges in the state, and to encourage more young people to become involved in the democratic process.

“Strong democracies rely on the participation of their citizens, and that includes young people,” said Didech. “This bill will not only help to ensure that we have enough trained and qualified election judges, but it will also provide a valuable experiential learning opportunity for college students to gain hands-on experience in the electoral process.”

The bill has received strong support from Lake County Clerk Anthony Vega, who praised its potential to strengthen the state’s election infrastructure.

“Illinois has a long history of running elections that make it easy for everyone to vote, and this bill will help us continue that tradition,” said Vega. “As a former student election judge, I am thrilled to partner with Rep. Didech on this important civic engagement bill. By providing academic credit to college students who serve as election judges, we can not only increase the number of trained and qualified individuals available to administer our elections, but we can also encourage more young people to get involved in the democratic process and help shape the future of our state and nation.”

If passed, the bill would give Illinois universities and community colleges the flexibility to adopt their own policies regarding its awarding of academic credit for election judges. Students who receive academic credit would not receive monetary compensation for their service as an election judge. If signed into law this year, student election judges would earn academic credit beginning with the 2024 primary election.

Recently elected to his 3rd term in the House, Didech represents communities in Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Mundelein, Wheeling, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Indian Creek, Mettawa, Park City, Waukegan, and unincorporated areas of Vernon Township and Fremont Township. Vega was recently sworn-in to his first term as Lake County Clerk after serving as Chief of Staff to the Lake County Sheriff.

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. – In response to backup and clogging issues in a local municipality’s sewer system, state Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, introduced legislation that was signed into law today requiring non-flushable products to be properly labeled as “Do Not Flush” on their packaging.

“Last year, I learned that the Village of Buffalo Grove was experiencing serious issues of clogging in their sewer pumps as residents were flushing items like baby wipes and paper towels down their toilets that created blockage and build up in the sewer system,” Didech said. “It came to my attention, that many products are mislabeled as being flushable, when in reality they are not broken down and flushed properly in our toilets and sewers.”

Didech’s SB 294 creates the Wipes Labeling Act and requires manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers to clearly label and include a “Do Not Flush” notice on packaging of disposable pre-moistened wipe products in Illinois. Products covered in this new law include items such as baby wipes, disinfecting wipes, feminine hygiene wipes, make up removal wipes and other non-flushable disposable products. Entities responsible for labeling the products who violate this new act will be subject to a civil penalty if they do not become compliant within 90-days of being notified. Gov. Pritzker signed SB 294 into law on Friday.

“Thank you to Governor Pritzker for signing the Wipes Labeling Act. This Act was initiated by the Village of Buffalo Grove’s Facebook post that our sewer pumps were becoming clogged from wipes that were being flushed down the toilet,” said Buffalo Grove Village President Beverly Sussman. “This is a very important and necessary bill. It’s not just about wipes. It’s about honesty and integrity in advertising. Thank you to Representative Didech for his part in getting this bill passed.”

“This legislation clearly defines what types of products cannot be flushed down toilets and ensures that manufacturers and retailers are not mislabeling their products to consumers,” Didech said. “It is my hope that this new law will make it clear to consumers that certain items should not be flushed in the toilet and it will prevent future instances of backup in sewer systems. I was proud to work with Senator Cristina Castro on this important issue and I thank Governor Pritzker for signing this bill into law today.”

Residents who want to share their thoughts or seek assistance with state issues can reach Didech at 847-478-9909 or by email at Info@repdidech.com.

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. – Legislation passed by state Rep. Daniel Didech (D – Buffalo Grove) to increase transparency within county government was recently signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker. House Bill 56, now signed into law as Public Act 102-0048, will ensure that taxpayers are informed about stipends paid to countywide office holders, like Sheriffs, Treasurers, and Clerks. Under this new law, county boards must now include a list of all stipends paid to countywide elected officials in its ordinance setting the compensation for those individuals.

“Current law provides an opportunity for politicians to secretly line their pockets with our tax dollars,” said Didech. “Many counties only publish what they directly pay these elected officials, keeping taxpayers in the dark about their true amount of compensation. This new law will ensure these payments are made in the light of day so every dollar spent on a politician’s compensation package will be available for review by all taxpayers.”

House Bill 56 is a transparency initiative that will inform the public of the total compensation of countywide elected officials. The measure adds to Didech’s list of successful initiatives to increase government transparency and improve accountability throughout Illinois. In addition to HB 56, Didech previously supported Senate Bill 1236, which closed a loophole in state law that allowed some local elected officials to exploit taxpayers for additional compensation, otherwise known as ‘double-dipping’. House Bill 4131 was an initiative also supported by Didech and required lawmakers to be paid only for the days they actually worked if they resign before the end of their term.

“Over the past two and a half years the legislature has several enacted reforms that will increase government transparency and ensure politicians are held to the highest standards,” said Didech. “We must restore the public’s trust in government and I will keep advocating for measures that will improve accountability and stop tax dollars from being wasted.”

Residents who want to share their thoughts or seek assistance with state issues can reach Didech at 847-478-9909 or by email at info@repdidech.com.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Dan Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, issued the following statement upon the General Assembly’s adjournment on Monday:

“I feel more optimistic for the future of Illinois than ever before. Earlier this year, my colleagues and I elected state Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch as Speaker of the House for the 102^nd General Assembly, because Springfield needed new perspectives and ideas. From passing comprehensive ethics reforms, to demanding justice and promoting equality, this historic legislative session was about putting the needs and values of our families and our communities first.

“We came together to pass common sense ethics reform, a long overdue goal of this legislative body. Legislators should not be allowed to moonlight as lobbyists on the side. Illinoisans know corruption when they see it, and having Springfield politicians lobby Chicago politicians and vice-versa is a recipe for disaster.

“Our state’s budget lives within its means while paying down the state’s backlog of debt, because the last thing working families need are new taxes or more reckless spending from Springfield. We came together to ensure that our schools are properly funded while we took advantage of cost-saving measures to ensure that essential services are maintained to care for the vulnerable.

“I look forward to continuing to work in good faith with legislators of all persuasions. My goal is to enact lasting and meaningful reforms that prioritize the well-being of all Illinoisans.”

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – On Monday, the Illinois General Assembly approved the state’s annual budget for fiscal year 2022, which includes $1.1 million for necessary renovations for the Adlai E. Stevenson Historic Home at the request of the six Democrats who represent portions of Lake County in the House of Representatives.

On May 26, Lake County Forest Preserve President Angelo Kyle submitted this request for funding to the Lake County House Democratic Delegation. The next day, a request to include this money in the state’s FY22 budget was transmitted to Speaker Emanual “Chris” Welch by all six members of the delegation: Jonathan Carroll (D-Northbrook), Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove), Joyce Mason (D-Gurnee), Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan), Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield), and Sam Yingling (D-Grayslake). The full amount of $1.1 million was included in the budget passed on Monday by both the House and Senate, which is expected to be signed into law by Governor Pritzker in the coming days.

Because of the coordinated efforts of President Kyle and the full House delegation, the Lake County Forest Preserve will no longer need to seek the demolition of this historic building that was recently proposed by other members of the Lake County Board.

Statement by Rep. Joyce Mason: “The Adlai Stevenson home is a precious piece of US History right here in Lake County, Illinois. Preserving this home will give future generations the opportunity to learn more about his life and legacy than they would from any book or commemorative plaque.”

Statement by Rep. Daniel Didech: “Over the past week, we were able to act quickly and effectively to secure the funding necessary to save one of Lake County’s most significant and irreplaceable historic buildings. I am grateful that President Angelo Kyle took decisive action to avert the irresponsible proposal to destroy one of our community’s treasures.”

Statement by Rep. Sam Yingling: “Adlai Stevenson is not only a part of Illinois history but also US history.   His contributions to our state and nation have helped bend the arc of history and we have an obligation to preserve his legacy in Lake County for future generations. I commend the leadership of President Angelo Kyle for his commitment to preservation and working with the Lake County Illinois House Delegation in securing the needed funds to restore this historic structure.”

NORTHBROOK, Ill. – Continuing their efforts to help protect constituents from identity theft, state Reps. Jonathon Carroll, D-Northbrook, and Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, will host a free drive-thru summer document shredding event on Saturday, June 12 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Mike Rylko Community Park, located at 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Rd. in Buffalo Grove.

“Too many residents have their personal identity stolen each year,” said Carroll. “If you’re looking to rid yourself of sensitive documents and want to make sure they’re disposed of properly, please take advantage of this opportunity.”

Last year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) noted there were over 135,000 identity theft reports in the state of Illinois. One of the most effective ways to help protect your identity and your credit score is to shred any documents with confidential or identifiable information.

The June 12 contactless event will take place in the Golf Dome Parking Lot. Attendees are asked to remove all staples and paper clips prior to arriving. Boxes can be placed in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle, and someone from the event will unload them for you and return the empty boxes.

“Shredding documents is an easy way to prevent identity theft as you’re getting rid of paperwork you no longer need,” said Didech. “If you are spring cleaning, please mark your calendar for this event to safely destroy personal documents you may have laying around the house. Many of us have old papers with personal information piling up at home, and this event provides residents the opportunity to safely and conveniently dispose of them.”

For more information, please contact Carroll’s full-time constituent office at 847-299-5499 or email ma@repcarroll.com.

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. – Looking ahead to the 102nd General Assembly, state Rep. Dan Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, is encouraging constituents to submit their ideas for legislation that could help address local issues.

“Many of the best ideas for legislation come from the community and Springfield needs fresh ideas now more than ever,” Didech said. “This past year has brought unprecedented and new challenges for the people of Illinois due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so I want to hear directly from our community on how state government can be more effective for them as we work to rebuild.”

Didech serves as state representative for the 59th House District, which includes all or parts of Buffalo Grove, Gurnee, Lincolnshire, Mundelein, Northbrook, Park City, Vernon Hills, Waukegan, and Wheeling. Throughout the year, Didech traditionally spends time going door-to-door and holding events to hear directly from constituents on the issues they care about. However, since the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has greatly reduced opportunities for safe in-person conversations, Didech is encouraging neighbors to share their thoughts electronically or over the phone.

“The pandemic has changed so much for so many, but what remains is my dedication to our community and my promise that I’ll always prioritize the needs of our families,” Didech said. “The need for greater access to affordable health care, property tax relief, and a more transparent government are among my top priorities for the upcoming legislative session.”

Residents of Didech’s district are invited to email him at info@repdidech.com with ideas, comments, questions, thoughts, or concerns. Didech can also be reached via Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RepDidech or by calling his district office at 847-478-9909.

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. – With the holiday shopping season quickly approaching, state Rep. Dan Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, is encouraging shoppers to support local small businesses on Small Business Saturday, observed Nov. 28, to help foster local economic development and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our small businesses are the cornerstones of our community and as such are among those hit the hardest by the economic effects of the pandemic,” said Didech. “Like many families, small businesses have been collectively asked to sacrifice so much since March. Now more than ever, we need to be there for our neighbors by prioritizing shopping local this holiday season and throughout the coming year.”

‘Small Business Saturday’ is the shopping-centric observance that occurs the Saturday immediately following Thanksgiving. Because of the buildup and hype of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, small businesses can easily be overlooked in the rush to fill holiday wish lists. While large retailers are reporting record profits year after year, small business owners are finding it tougher to stay afloat, especially during the pandemic.

“This year has been tough for everybody, especially those with brick and mortar businesses,” said Didech. “By shopping local, we are all doing our part to help the small businesses that support our community keep their doors open during these unprecedented times.”