Faraci introduces measure to protect Mahomet Aquifer from sequestration activity

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci has introduced legislation to prohibit carbon capture and sequestration activities over, under or through the Mahomet Aquifer – a vital sole-source aquifer supplying clean drinking water to over 500,000 residents across 14 counties in East Central Illinois.

“The Mahomet Aquifer is a lifeline for many residents, and while carbon sequestration can play a role in addressing climate change, we need to ensure it doesn’t put our community’s water at risk,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This measure is about exercising caution to protect the health and safety of our residents and safeguarding this crucial resource for our future generations.”

Read more: Faraci introduces measure to protect Mahomet Aquifer from sequestration activity

New residential facility supporting medically complex youth in care to open thanks to funding secured by Senate Democrats

CHICAGO—State Senator Natalie Toro celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony of Maryville’s St. Catherine of Siena—a new facility to serve youth in care with complex medical needs in the district she represents that was made possible through funding secured in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

“All children deserve high-quality health care—especially when they are experiencing complex and intense symptoms,” said Toro (D-Chicago). “Continued investments will ensure more young people can access lifesaving care, and be set up for success in the future.”

The temporary housing program will serve up to 10 youth in care who are ready to be discharged from intensive medical facilities but are still in need of transitional care due to their complex medical needs.

Read more: New residential facility supporting medically complex youth in care to open thanks to funding...

Simmons Receives LGBTQ+ Leader Award from State Treasurer Frerichs

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons was recognized by Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs with the Illinois LGBTQ+ Leader Award during a celebration Wednesday commemorating LGBTQ+ History Month in Chicago.

“As the first openly gay senator in the state of Illinois and the third openly gay senator in the country, I bring my lived experiences as well as my constituents' with me every day,”said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Since taking office three years ago, I have fought to protect LGBTQ+ rights in Illinois through empowering organizations and taking legislative action to advance the rights of LGBTQ+ folks across the state.”

The event celebrated the societal impact and leadership of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people and their allies. Treasurer Frerichs presented awards to leaders in the military, medicine, education, advocacy and activism, government, athletics, and fine arts.

Read more: Simmons Receives LGBTQ+ Leader Award from State Treasurer Frerichs

Collins receives Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award

CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined Planned Parenthood of Illinois to receive the Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award for her efforts to improve equity in reproductive care and maternal and infant health.

“It is a great honor to be among the fierce champions selected for this award, and I am proud to stand alongside Planned Parenthood as we champion reproductive freedom across Illinois,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Being among such passionate advocates fighting for bodily autonomy is truly inspiring.”

The Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award — named after the late Cook County Board president who restored abortion services at the county’s health system in 1992 — is presented to individuals who champion reproductive rights and freedoms through their public service.

Read more: Collins receives Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award