SPRINGFIELD— To address underreported and unsolved missing persons cases, particularly those involving people of color, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. advanced a measure to streamline the investigative process from the Senate Local Government Committee on Tuesday.  

“It pains me to hear a mother’s cry on national television begging the public for assistance in finding a child that’s gone missing,” said Sims. “The first step is acknowledging the large disparity that exists in the lack of urgency and coverage.”

Senate Bill 3932 would require a coroner or medical examiner with custody of human remains that are not identified within 72 hours of discovery to immediately notify the Federal Bureau of Investigation for assistance in identification.

SPRINGFIELD—State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) moved legislation to establish the Safe 2 Help Program, a hotline designed to receive reports from the public regarding potential self-harm or criminal acts directed at schools, students or school employees.

“Our number one job is to protect our state’s most vulnerable populations,” said Sims. “This program was introduced to keep our children and schools safe while providing help to those who are battling mental illness.”

Senate Bill 3936, an initiative of Illinois State Police, would require the agency to work collaboratively with the Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois State Board of Education and Department of Children and Family Services to provide support resources to students and teachers to prevent potential crisis situations.

“We cannot wait for another tragic event to happen in our schools,” said Sims. “This is a key step in the intervention process that will not only protect our students from planned attacks but will also help develop police-community relations.” 

Senate Bill 3936 passed the Senate Education Committee Tuesday and awaits further consideration.

CHICAGO— The Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce is set to receive $1,450,000 in grants to revitalize the local business community, thanks to State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago).

The Chamber of Commerce will receive funding from the Illinois Department of Economic Development to enhance and provide additional services to local businesses through its Rebuild Distressed Communities program. The grant is made possible by the state’s historic Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement regarding the death of Thornton Township Supervisor, Frank Zuccarelli:

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of my friend, Frank Zuccarelli, the Thornton Township Supervisor and Committeeperson.”

“A devoted public servant for more than 40 years, Frank’s infectious laugh, smile and commitment to Thornton Township, South Suburban College and the Southland area will be deeply missed.” 

“My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to his family and the Thornton Township family he loved so much. Z-Team-Forever.”

CHICAGO— State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago), Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore and 21st Ward Alderman Howard Brookins Jr. released a joint statement following a deadly shooting incident which occurred late Monday morning near their shared district office:

“Today a violent incident occurred outside of our shared district office in which a security guard’s life was taken, and another guard was shot and wounded, by yet another senseless act of gun violence.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to protect young women’s reproductive rights and choices, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) advanced the Youth Health and Safety Act.

“We know that most young people alert or involve a parent or older family member in their decision making when something as serious as a pregnancy happens,” Sims said. “In fact, research shows us that the younger someone is, the more likely they are to discuss it with a family member and when they don’t, they have a good reason.”

Under current law, young women, some in troubled family circumstances, must notify an adult family member at least 48 hours before having an abortion. However, Sims and other supporters of the legislation point out that not all family systems are created equal and that youth who come from these circumstances are placed in harm’s way by forcing them into unhealthy conversations.

CHICAGO – As the state prepares to launch the new Back to Business (B2B) small business relief program, Senate Democrats called a joint hearing of the Illinois Senate Appropriations and Commerce Committees to give small business owners a platform to provide feedback and direction to program administrators.

“I am proud to lead Democratic efforts in the Senate to ensure needed dollars reach the communities hardest hit by the pandemic,” said State Senator Elgie Sims (D-Chicago), who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee. “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic loss, but the losses our small businesses experienced have put a tremendous strain on growing local economies. I will remain committed to helping all small businesses build back better.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) and members of the Senate Appropriations and Commerce Committees will hold a joint hearing Thursday, Aug. 12 at noon to discuss the Back 2 Business small business recovery program. 

“It has remained a top priority of mine to help all small businesses build back better,” said Sims, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee. “And I’m especially eager to ensure dollars reach the communities hardest hit by the pandemic.”