Sims leads sound fiscal decisions resulting in payoff of Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Debt

CHICAGO — State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. — the Senate’s chief budget negotiator — led efforts that allowed Illinois to repay the remaining $1.36 billion unemployment insurance Trust Fund debt.

“This plan was the right thing to do for businesses, labor organizations and everyday Illinoisans,” said Sims (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I want people to know that if they need temporary help providing for their families, no matter the reason, Illinois has their back.”

The payment was made possible after a historic agreement was reached between the state, and representatives from business, labor, and bipartisan members of the General Assembly. Smart spending decisions and balanced budgets of recent years led by Sims put the state on track to be able to make the payment.

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Turner secures nearly $6 million for Decatur transportation improvements

DECATUR – With the strong support of State Senator Doris Turner, the city of Decatur will receive nearly $6 million to improve transportation as part of the historic Rebuild Illinois capital program.

“Infrastructure investments are vital to expanding downstate transportation needs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have seen remarkable improvements through the Rebuild Illinois capital program. Expanding Decatur’s transit campus, buying additional buses and installing solar panels on the bus barn will increase accessibility for residents to get around town.”

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Johnson attends opening of The Eleanor Murkey Community Center

WAUKEGAN – As part of her continued efforts to advocate and prioritize education, State Senator Adriane Johnson joined residents and other government officials in celebration of the ribbon cutting for the new Student Center at the College of Lake County.

“Education is a great equalizer,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The new center will provide students in our district the opportunity to live out their promise and live out their dreams.”

The Lakeshore Campus Student Center will provide a promising experience for its students through its improved student services, plus state-of-the-art learning and study spaces. The 63,000 square foot building was partially funded by a $35.9 million investment through Rebuild Illinois, and is positioned in downtown Waukegan with an overview of Lake Michigan.

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Illinois Senate Democrats celebrate $13 Million for Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program Expansion

CHICAGO – The Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program, which creates a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates in construction and the building trades, will see a $13 million expansion thanks to support from the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus.

“A strong and just economy is built on ensuring all Illinoisan have real opportunities to secure good-paying jobs,” said Senator Mike Simmons (D- Chicago), who kicked off the announcement at a press conference Friday. “By expanding the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship program and making it more accessible to communities of color, we are addressing systemic inequities and creating a more diverse and skilled workforce in Uptown and across the state.”

The Works Pre-apprenticeship Program’s second year will expand access to the program across the state and will serve up to 1,400 people. This is a 40% increase from the program’s first year. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure long-term employment.

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