Hunter honors life of Jesse Jackson through expressway designation

CHICAGO – Just days before what would have been Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s 85th birthday, State Senator Mattie Hunter joined the Jackson family and the Illinois Department of Transportation to designate part of Interstate 57 as the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Expressway.

“Rev. Jackson spent his life fighting for people who too often went unseen and unheard,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Today, on his birthday, every driver who travels this expressway will be reminded of a man who never stopped working for justice, opportunity and dignity for all. It was a privilege to stand with his family to honor him in the city he called home.”

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Senate Democrats applaud support limiting diesel fuel costs’ impact on Illinois farmers

CHICAGO — Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrated the announcement of relief for the agriculture industry to mitigate increasing diesel fuel costs.

The support allows Illinois farmers to use dyed diesel fuel when driving on roads, even though it is typically only used for agricultural purposes. Additional protections for farmers will also be considered as the fuel markets and agricultural economy face continued disruptions.

“Illinois farmers are already paying more to grow their crops, and now diesel is getting more expensive, too,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Nobody should pour their sweat into the land only to lose money on it. This diesel relief gives farmers a real chance to come out ahead, and that's exactly what they've earned.”

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Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee

MONEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce joined Voortman Steel Machinery leadership, Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project in Monee.

“I am glad to say that this state has fully backed what we are seeing today,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is our third major project in this manufacturing corridor. The Voortman Headquarters will be in this community for generations to come, and that’s something to be proud of.”

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Harmon, Halpin support Joslin following Tyson Foods facility closure

JOSLIN — State Senator Mike Halpin and Senate President Don Harmon have fought to support the Joslin community following the recent closing of Tyson Foods’ beef plant in the town.

“Illinois is home to a world-leading agriculture industry built on generations of hard work by farm families and the people who process, move and deliver what they produce,” said Harmon (D-Oak Park). “We know this is a challenging time for many of those families and workers. I appreciate Governor Pritzker moving quickly to put the state’s economic development resources to work and sending a clear message that Illinois is ready to compete for the businesses and quality jobs these communities deserve.”

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