Black Caucus outlines vision for upcoming session
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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus announced they will focus on passing a balanced budget that uplifts low-income and working families and enhances classroom and early childhood education.
“The governor’s proposed budget showcases a continual dedication to fund programs that promote public safety and equity for all Illinois residents,” said State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago). “A budget proposal that contains investments in schools, small businesses, working families and our environment reframes key investments that have traditionally left out Black and Brown communities and is a step toward progress.”
After Governor JB Pritzker outlined his legislative priorities, the Black Caucus highlighted the importance of putting the voices and needs of Illinois’ Black communities at the forefront of upcoming budget negotiations.
Read more: Black Caucus outlines vision for upcoming session
Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus reacts to governor’s budget address
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SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus expressed support for a number of proposals outlined in the governor’s budget address Wednesday.
“We need a budget that addresses the lack of immigration rights, health and education equity, economic justice for workers, and proper representation for Latino communities,” said joint Latino Caucus Chair Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago). “One of our top priorities in this year’s budget is to ensure that equitable opportunities are created for Latino communities in Illinois to live a healthy and sustainable life.”
Latino Caucus members were pleased to hear the governor commitment to increasing education and health equity. The governor is proposing a $350 million investment to HOME Illinois, a program through the Department of Human Services that targets the prevention of homelessness, provides crisis response, expands housing support and increases job opportunities for the homeless. To ensure equity in education, the proposed budget would continue the $350 million increase toward the evidence based funding model for k-12 education.
Read more: Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus reacts to governor’s budget address
Villa fights to make diapers more attainable
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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Karina Villa attended a press conference with Representative Lakeisha Collins and Children’s Home & Aid regarding legislation that will provide a monthly diaper allowance for families who meet certain income thresholds.
“It is important to bring awareness to the diaper need within our communities,” said Villa (D- West Chicago). “Diapers are an essential household item for new parents, and while approximately 1 in 3 parents experience diaper need, caregivers in poverty are unable to purchase diapers with their SNAP or WIC benefits. I want to pass legislation that will address this gap.”
On average, 12 diapers are needed per day for infants and toddlers, which can add up to $80-100 spent per month on diapers. With inflation and the increasing cost of basic goods, diaper prices will weigh even heavier on struggling families. A diaper allowance will put money in the pockets of low-income families struggling to pay their bills.
Koehler announces $24.6 million improvement to Peoria’s Bob Michel Bridge
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PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler joined local leaders along with the Illinois Department of Transportation Tuesday to announce $24.6 million in improvements to Peoria’s Bob Michel Bridge through the Rebuild Illinois project.
The project includes installing new concrete and bridge joints to extend the life of the deck. The improvements will expand walkways and convert the five foot sidewalks into a 14 – foot path that is accessible to pedestrians and bicyclists in the community.
“These improvements to our bridge is vital for workers and residents throughout our community,” said Koehler (D – Peoria). “Residents of the greater Peoria area deserve safe transportation and high quality roads. These repairs provide opportunities for new jobs, economic development, and a brighter future for our community.”
Read more: Koehler announces $24.6 million improvement to Peoria’s Bob Michel Bridge
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