Feigenholtz: We are protecting the personal reproductive health decisions of young women

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the Youth Health and Safety Act passed the Senate Tuesday:

“The Youth Health and Safety act will modernize and improve the path for young women by protecting their personal reproductive health decisions. This measure is focused on people that are living very complex lives and often have been victims of incest, rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence.

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Simmons helps send repeal of Parental Notification of Abortion law to House, fights for abortion access and reproductive rights for youth

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate approved a measure co-sponsored by State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) that preserves reproductive health rights and bodily autonomy for young people, especially young women, in Illinois.

“Today we are removing a systemic barrier to reproductive health care for young people,” Simmons said. “Systemic issues require systemic action, and the measure we passed today is a decisive step forward in ensuring reproductive rights and health equity in Illinois and protecting bodily autonomy consistent with the protections guaranteed by the Roe v. Wade decision.”

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Bush: Access to sexual and reproductive health care starting at a young age is crucial

SPRINGFIELD – A steadfast advocate for women’s reproductive health care, State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) was proud to cast her vote for monumental legislation to prioritize the health and safety of young women.

“When we think of reproductive health care and parenting resources, we often think of established adults starting families,” Bush said. “But the reality is thousands of teenagers across our state are struggling every day with where to turn during an unplanned pregnancy. By prioritizing the health of our young women of today, we are prioritizing the health of future generations.”

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Morrison calls on DCFS to provide better care for LGBTQ youth

SPRINGFIELD – Calling on the Department of Children and Family Services to better support and protect its LGBTQ youth in care, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to address the agency’s shortcomings.

“There are estimates that 30% of our youth in care at DCFS identify as LGBTQ, yet there seems to be a discrepancy between that number and the numbers DCFS provided,” Morrison said. “We must ensure LGBTQ youth in care are getting the proper support they need to have successful futures.” 

The hearing comes following recent findings that DCFS was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care. An investigation by the auditor general looked into how many LGBTQ children were under the care of DCFS and the number of providers deemed “clinically appropriate” for the kids. The audit – which was spearheaded by a resolution previously passed by Morrison – found the agency "does not collect sufficient information regarding whether those in care are LGBTQ."

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