Simmons: New PrEP HIV prevention initiative supports healthy communities

SPRINGFIELD – With lifesaving medication being one of the most effective means of preventing HIV diagnoses, State Senator Mike Simmons is proud to support the Illinois Department of Public Health’s initiative to allow Illinois residents to obtain HIV preventive medication known as PrEP directly from a pharmacist without requiring a doctor’s prescription.

“PrEP saves lives, and removing the prescription barrier means more people – especially in the LGBTQ+ community – will be provided with lifesaving care,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This is a major step forward in health equity in Illinois.” 

In June 2022, Simmons passed House Bill 4430 into law, which allows pharmacists to dispense and administer drugs, order laboratory tests, and consult individuals on HIV pre-exposure drugs and post-exposure drugs like PrEP.

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Preston commends HHS, FDA phase out of eight artificial dyes from the U.S. food supply

CHICAGO – Following the recent announcement of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Food and Drug Administration to phase out eight artificial dyes, State Senator Willie Preston announced his support for the decision and highlighted his efforts to remove harmful food additives that have been linked to dangerous health issues.

“Today’s announcement by the HHS and FDA to phase out artificial dyes in America is long overdue. I applaud them for taking this bold yet pragmatic step,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “The health of Americans — especially our children — must rise above corporate profits and political gamesmanship.”

The eight petroleum-based artificial colors being phased out include Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, Orange B, Citrus Red No. 2, Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Yellow No. 6. These are found in products such as cereal, ice cream, snacks, yogurts, and more.

Read more: Preston commends HHS, FDA phase out of eight artificial dyes from the U.S. food supply

Sims celebrates record-breaking film production expenditures

CHICAGO – Illinois’ national standing in the film and television industry continues to rise – most recently after seeing $650 million in film production expenditures for the second year in a row.

“Illinois continues to lead the nation in attracting film and television companies from around the world thanks to the Film Production Tax Credit,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “The film industry brings millions of dollars to Illinois’ economy – and, in turn, enhances opportunities for good-paying jobs in the communities that need them most.”

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Collins bill would further support new mothers on Medicaid

SPRINGFIELD – To support mothers across Illinois, State Senator Lakesia Collins is leading a measure to give people enrolled in Medicaid better access to maternal health services.

“We are enabling the continuous support for mothers to have a doula by their side and be able to rely on their services,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “With this legislation, we continue our commitments to the mothers of Illinois, and especially those on Medicaid, with better support and more resources available throughout their pregnancy.”

Under Senate Bill 2437, hospitals and birthing centers would be required to give patients enrolled in Medicaid the option to select a certified doula through the Illinois Medicaid-Certified Doula Program. Covered doula services can include counseling and support, newborn care, development of a birth plan, attendance at health care appointments, support during labor and delivery and more.

Read more: Collins bill would further support new mothers on Medicaid