SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson championed a measure to ensure students learn about the impacts of climate change in school.

“The integration of environmental literacy is crucial to youth development,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “By learning about climate change, students are empowered to take action and make informed decisions.”

House Bill 4895 would task public schools in Illinois with providing learning opportunities on the environmental and ecological impacts of climate change and solutions for addressing the crisis. Schools would be granted the flexibility to decide whether to create a separate class or implement these lessons into existing relevant classes.

“Understanding climate change includes recognizing the disproportionate effects on marginalized communities and developing empathy and advocacy for climate justice,” said Johnson. “Climate change education promotes equity and social responsibility.”

House Bill 4895 passed the Senate Thursday and heads to the governor’s desk.