SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing the importance of equipping students with knowledge about environmental challenges and solutions, State Senator Adriane Johnson championed a new law that will ensure students have access to comprehensive climate change education.

“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and it disproportionately affects marginalized communities,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “By integrating climate change education in our schools, we are not only providing students with the knowledge they need to navigate these issues, but also promoting equity by ensuring all students, regardless of background, can use this critical information.”

Johnson’s law tasks public schools in Illinois with providing learning opportunities on the environmental and ecological impacts of climate change and solutions for addressing the crisis. Schools have the flexibility to decide whether to create a separate class or implement these lessons into existing relevant classes – such as science, agriculture and technical education courses.

“Educating our youth about climate change takes a multi-faceted approach,” said Johnson. “Empowering students with this knowledge will prepare them to be informed residents, helping to create and sustain resilient communities.”

House Bill 4895 was signed on Friday and goes into effect July 1, 2025.