Senate Democrats hopeful by changes outlined for Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center

SPRINGFIELD – Following years of abuse and neglect allegations at Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center, the Illinois Department of Human Services announced a comprehensive plan to reshape the way the state cares for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

A number of members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus have long been outspoken about the issue, regularly calling for action and change. They were pleased to see a multi-faceted approach come to fruition.

“I am encouraged by the proposed changes from DHS. The safety of mental and behavioral health patients needs to be the top priority,” said State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview). “I applaud DHS and the governor for announcing a plan that prioritizes patients. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with them and other partners to best support patients at Choate and their caregivers.” 

In coordination with their families and guardians, and with support from the SIU School of Medicine, most current patients at the Choate Center in Anna will have the opportunity to transition into community-based settings or other state centers where they will receive comprehensive, personalized care.

Read more: Senate Democrats hopeful by changes outlined for Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center

Johnson leads measure to mitigate the exposure of “forever chemicals”

WAUKEGAN – The effects of PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals – are of high concern to the environment and people’s health, leading State Senator Adriane Johnson to champion a measure to mitigate its risk.

“These ‘forever chemicals’ are found in too many of our communities – causing both health and environmental issues,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “We must implement changes and develop policies to combat the risk of exposure.”

Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made harsh chemicals manufactured for oil and water resistant properties. Many Illinois manufacturers utilize the production of PFAS, resulting in the risk of contaminating water supplies throughout the state. Johnson’s measure would require the Illinois EPA to use the most up-to-date federal guidance to control the discharge of PFAS.

Read more: Johnson leads measure to mitigate the exposure of “forever chemicals”

Villanueva fights for college students to have access to emergency contraception

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to increase emergency contraception access on college campuses, State Senator Celina Villanueva championed a measure that would allow college students to purchase non-prescription wellness products at a reduced price in at least one wellness kiosk on each campus.

“Many college students are already facing financial hardships in college due to limited funding and a lack of resources,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “The last thing students need to be worried about is breaking their pocketbooks in order to get proper health care on campus.”

Senate Bill 1907 advances equal reproductive healthcare rights for students enrolled in public institutions of higher education, including those enrolled in community colleges. This legislation establishes the Public Higher Education Act, which would require public colleges, universities and community colleges to offer emergency contraceptives and other products at a reduced price in at least one wellness kiosk on each campus. A wellness kiosk, similar to a vending machine, would offer non-prescription items such as menstrual products, pregnancy tests, prophylactics and emergency contraception.

Read more: Villanueva fights for college students to have access to emergency contraception

Pacione-Zayas initiative ensures sustainability and expansion of DHS home visiting programs

SPRINGFIELD – A legislative initiative introduced by State Senator Cristina H. Pacione-Zayas codifies home visiting programs administered by the Department of Human Services for over 30 years. Home visiting is an essential program in the early childhood ecosystem that helps eligible parents and caregivers support their child’s development from the prenatal phase through age five.

“We have to acknowledge that when a child is born, a parent is born as well. All parents desire to provide the best upbringing for their children, but instruction manuals do not come with each child. Unexpected challenges can arise for families and potentially undermine their ability to meet these needs,” said Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago). “Home visiting programs are evidence-based and aim to support bond building, connect families to critical community resources, and provide guidance on wellness and development to contribute to optimal child outcomes and greater family stability.”

Read more: Pacione-Zayas initiative ensures sustainability and expansion of DHS home visiting programs