Koehler advances legislation highlighting resources available to Illinoisans with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD – Families of students with disabilities will be more fully informed of the resources available to them thanks to a measure by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) that passed out of the Senate State Government Committee on Wednesday.

“Students with disabilities face seemingly insurmountable challenges every day,” Koehler said. “For many of these students and their families, the COVID-19 pandemic has only added to their worries; and helping families access much-needed assistance should be a priority.”

Senate Bill 3474 requires school districts to provide informational materials about the Achieving a Better Life Experience account program directly to the parent or guardian of students with disabilities.

Read more: Koehler advances legislation highlighting resources available to Illinoisans with disabilities

Simmons wraps up a campaign to get CPS students vaccinated

CHICAGO –  State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) wrapped up his campaign last week aimed at getting children across the district he represents vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus.

“My staff and I set in motion the #ChildrenCarryOn campaign to highlight the true resilience of the children ages 5-11 who live within my district,” Simmons said. “These children have made some of the biggest sacrifices with the least reward these last 18 months. We should celebrate them and lift up their courage in being vaccinated superheroes.”

Over the last two years, children between the ages of 5 and 11 have had to alter their school life, go without seeing friends and not participate in their extra-curricular activities. In addition, many children are also coping with the loss of their family members. 

Simmons’ office set a goal of getting over 1,000 vaccines distributed to students between the ages of 5 and 11 in the district over the past two months. He kicked off the campaign on CPS Vaccination Awareness Day on Nov. 12, by visiting three vaccine clinics hosted by schools for their students at Gale, Kilmer, and Goudy elementary schools. On Jan. 28. Simmons hosted a final pediatric vaccine clinic, in collaboration with State Rep. Kelly Cassidy and Alderman Harry Osterman, at the Broadway Armory. Parents and caregivers with multiple children trickled in for appointments eager to become vaccinated. 

Read more: Simmons wraps up a campaign to get CPS students vaccinated

Older LGBTQ adults could be extended support through the Department of Aging under Villa legislation

SPRINGFIELD – Older adults in the LGBTQ community could be designated advocates under the Department on Aging for addressing mistreatment and disparities faced by LGBTQ seniors and seniors with HIV, thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Karina Villa (D-West Chicago).

“The LGBTQ community already faces an immense amount of stress regarding their sexual orientation, gender identity, lack of legal support and health care opportunities,” Villa said. “A dedicated advocate will help ensure older LGBTQ adults have the support they need and deserve.”

Read more: Older LGBTQ adults could be extended support through the Department of Aging under Villa legislation

Black Caucus reacts to Governor’s budget Address

CHICAGO — Illinois Legislative Black Caucus members expressed considerable support, for Gov. JB Pritzker’s proposed budget Wednesday following Pritzker’s annual budget address.

“It’s clear that we need a budget that addresses the lack of access to health care, affordable housing, economic development and high quality education in Black communities,” said Joint Black Caucus Chair Sonya M. Harper (D-Chicago). “One of our top priorities in this budget making process is to ensure our most vulnerable communities and services are protected.”

 The Black caucus also outlined their legislative priorities for 2022 during their “State of Black Illinois Address.”

Among the group address, some members praised Pritzker for his commitment to what he called the ‘Illinois Family Relief Plan’ which provides tax and fee relief for working families, increases public safety efforts and provides additional funding for Illinois schools, hospitals and human services.

Read more: Black Caucus reacts to Governor’s budget Address