Black Caucus: Governor’s vision sets state on path to help black communities

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus responded to Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget address on Wednesday.

Black Caucus leaders discussed areas within the governor’s budget proposal that specifically affect black communities, including early childhood education, economic development and public safety.

Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair of the ILBC:

“I am thrilled Governor Pritzker has a significant plan for education from birth to college. I share his enthusiasm for educating our young people because it is proven that their success lies in the quality of their education.

“Educating our young people has always been a central focus of the Black Caucus. We understand that in order for communities to grow and advance, they need to be educated. We look forward to joining the governor in the fight for equitable funding and access to education.”

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A February tradition: Go Red for Women Day

Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association's national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women.

Every February, the General Assembly holds a Go Red for Women Day at the Capitol to increase awareness of women’s heart health issues and help improve the lives of women throughout Illinois. While nearly 80% of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular diseases continue to be a woman’s greatest health threat.

Signs and symptoms of a heart attack can be different in women than in men, often more likely to be shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting and back or jaw pain.

If you had heart disease, would you recognize the symptoms? Learn about heart attack and stroke symptoms, about your own risk, how to live a more heart healthy life, and more at https://www.goredforwomen.org/.

Glowiak Hilton holds hearing on 5G technology

SPRINGFIELD – In response to concerns from area residents about 5G technology coming to the area, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is committed to learning more about the infrastructure to better inform legislative action on the issue.

“I’ve heard from a lot of people about this issue,” Glowiak Hilton said. “There was talk that certain carriers were going to roll out 5G in my district and people became concerned. I’m glad to jumpstart this conversation to help residents feel comfortable in their homes.”

The Senate Public Health Committee held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of the wireless technology. Glowiak Hilton is working toward stronger local control for municipalities, and hopes local areas will be able to choose if they want this technology in their areas.

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In push for reform, joint committee hears from people affected by criminal justice system

CHICAGO — A joint committee heard feedback from witnesses on what the current state of criminal justice reform in Illinois.

The hearing was called by co-chairs State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) of the Senate Criminal Law Committee, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) of the new Senate Public Safety Special Committee and State Representative Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago) of the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee.

“Hearing all sides of the issue is crucial to working toward a system that is fair and just,” Sims said. “We have to work together to develop a focused strategy. That is the only way we will protect our communities, ensure fairness in sentencing and allow for life after prison.”

Read more: In push for reform, joint committee hears from people affected by criminal justice system