Simmons Joins AIDS Foundation Chicago to Advocate for HIV Funding

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons was joined by State Representative Norma Hernandez, Alderman Lamont Robinson and advocates from AIDS Foundation Chicago, BLACHE, TaskForce Prevention and Community Services, School of Opulence, and the Springfield Urban League at a press conference Tuesday to advocate for over $6 million for HIV funding infrastructure in Illinois through Senate Bill 2814, which would restore funding for Illinois’ PrEP Medication Assistance Program and allocate funding for STI screening.

“For the fourth year in a row, I am proud to carry legislation that provides full funding for HIV prevention and treatment, and helps us get to zero new HIV/AIDS diagnoses by 2030.”  said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Through the work of providers, advocates, policymakers and people living with and vulnerable to HIV, Illinois has made real progress toward ending the HIV epidemic in our state. We must continue to make sure Illinoisans living with HIV do not lose access to the care they need.”

Through the Illinois AIDS Drug Assistance Program, known as Illinois ADAP, residents living with HIV/AIDS have access to life-saving medications which in turn prevent further HIV transmissions via viral suppression. Now, amid a storm of proposed federal budget cuts, the impact of slashing Medicaid and the expiration of enhanced ACA premium tax credits have increased risks for residents who depend on Illinois ADAP and could leave them without access to medications that keep them healthy.

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Belt advances measure to protect consumers’ ability to pay with cash

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure that would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500.

“For many Illinois residents, cash remains a dependable and necessary way to pay for everyday purchases,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “People deserve the freedom to choose how they pay.”

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Castro pushes bill to require dementia training for direct service workers

SPRINGFIELD — Taking a step toward ensuring caregivers have the tools to meet the needs of people impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, State Senator Cristina Castro advanced legislation that would expand requirements for dementia training for direct service workers.

“Dementia does not have a one-size-fits-all solution,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Empowering direct service workers with essential information will support them in providing more informed and holistic care for those living with dementia.”

Over seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – the most common type of dementia. Recent studies have shown that over half of all caregivers struggle to find resources to help them care for patients with Alzheimer’s.

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Holmes drives statutory guidance for courts to resolve splitting domestic partners’ disputes over pet custody

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes remains a leader in Illinois legislation to eliminate hazardous conditions for animals of all sizes, as evidenced by a measure approved this week that would provide statutory guidance to Illinois courts to resolve pet possession conflicts when their unmarried parents separate.

“Laws are revised over time to reflect changing norms in every aspect of our daily lives. Family roles change, and families see pets as adored family members rather than property,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “If the future residence of a companion animal is in question when family members separate, the courts need guidance in considering the best outcome for the animal’s consistent caregiving and comfort.” 

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