SPRINGFIELD – Building upon efforts to address maternal and infant mortality in the state of Illinois, the governor signed into law a measure led by State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) to expand access to prenatal services.

“Maternal mortality is a serious matter both in our state, and across the country, especially for Black women,” Van Pelt said. “Making prenatal and perinatal services more accessible can set those expecting up for a healthy delivery.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Bill Cunningham sponsored legislation that makes it easier for callers to reach 911 during an emergency was signed into law Friday.

“This new law helps children during times of an emergency,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the southwest suburbs. “We are removing barriers that hinder people from calling 911 and we are making it easier for first responders to locate the caller.”

PEORIA – A new law championed by State Senator Dave Koehler will keep Illinois on track toward a greener future by expanding recycling opportunities for renewable energy technology.

“Sustainable energy isn’t really sustainable when it requires technology that can’t be reused and is difficult to recycle,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “As we look to expand the widespread use of renewable energy, we have a responsibility to safely dispose of any associated waste.”

SPRINGFIELD – Those enrolled in Medicaid will see more continuous coverage and expanded services thanks to a new law spearheaded by State Senator Ann Gillespie that was signed into law on Friday.

“Working families need stability more than ever, especially when it comes to health care coverage,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Removing the bureaucratic burdens these families face will ensure they remain covered once enrolled.”

­SPRINGFIELD – Legislation to conduct a review of revenue sources, equity and safety measures, and how to further improve our transportation system, spearheaded by Senate Transportation Committee chair Ram Villivalam, was signed into law on Friday.

“Illinois is working hard to continue finding new ways to improve our infrastructure,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “With the help of this commission, we will find innovative ways to execute the Rebuild Illinois capital plan and find sources of funding for projects in the communities that need it most.”

SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) spearheaded a measure to help reduce the number of stolen car parts by requiring people to keep record of the sale of catalytic converters that was signed into law Friday.

“The rise in crime in Chicago and across Illinois was addressed this legislative session,” Munoz said. “This new law will decrease catalytic converter thefts by closing the loophole many found a way around.”

This Memorial Day weekend, the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrates the contributions of all who served in the military. It is a day to honor the men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As people across the state enjoy village parades, backyard barbeques and time with family and friends, it’s vital to take time to honor and reflect upon the people who sacrificed everything.

Two of the caucus’ very own, State Senators Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) and Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) know firsthand the importance of Memorial Day.

Happy Memorial Day!

Greetings to you and your family on this Memorial Day weekend. Unlike Veterans Day, in which we celebrate the contributions of all who served in the military, Memorial Day is a time when we honor those men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As we enjoy village parades, backyard barbeques and time with family and friends, let us take some time to honor and reflect upon the people who sacrificed everything.

We must not only honor those who have given their lives for our country, but also ensure that when veterans come home, they have access to jobs and health care. We will work together to advocate for veterans returning to their families and communities.

We hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day.

Sound of the State: Hear from the Senate Democrats' own veterans

As veterans, State Senators Michael Hastings and Tony Munoz know firsthand the importance of Memorial Day – to honor the men and women of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Hear their thoughts during this episode of the Sound of the State HERE.

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