Simmons to expand Housing is Recovery pilot program

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons advanced legislation to increase access to affordable housing for more youth experiencing homelessness who may be struggling with mental health or substance abuse. 

“The intersectionality of recurring substance use, mental health struggles and access to affordable housing is very real,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Providing support services to at-risk adolescents as young as age 18 is much needed.”

The Housing is Recovery pilot program offers affordable housing using a bridge rental subsidy combined with access to recovery support services or treatment for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse.

Read more: Simmons to expand Housing is Recovery pilot program

Sims to bring diabetes education to schools

SPRINGFIELD – Parents would have better understanding of the signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes in their children under a measure led by State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr.

“Providing education on Type 1 diabetes isn’t just a tool – it is a lifeline that can give children guidance toward better self-care and resilience,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Schools have an opportunity to make a difference both in students’ education and their health.”

Students and their families would be more educated on symptoms, intervention and treatment of Type 1 diabetes under a proposal led by Sims. Senate Bill 3473 would require the Illinois State Board of Education and Department of Public Health to put together informational resources on the disease and display it on ISBE’s website. Public and charter schools would also hand out the information to parents or guardians when enrolling their child.

Read more: Sims to bring diabetes education to schools

Faraci highlights major agricultural development in Champaign County

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci announced that significant investments have been secured for the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Bio-manufacturing Tech Hub.

"This investment is a major win for Illinois," said Faraci (D-Champaign). "As game-changing technology continues to emerge, it is critical that our businesses in Illinois are prepared. iFAB's Tech Hub designation will not only bolster our state's local economies but it will put Illinois on the map, signifying our title as a major tech hub."

The $680 million in combined grants will help create the infrastructure needed for the state to meet current demand for bio-manufacturing and precision fermentation. iFAB exemplifies the state’s bio-manufacturing prowess, with a focus on fermentation as a bio-manufacturing tool. Bio-manufacturing converts crops like corn and soybeans into a range of commodities.

Read more: Faraci highlights major agricultural development in Champaign County

Local film industry to receive $10 million thanks to Senate Democrats

SPRINGFIELD – Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus helped secure funding through the Illinois Soundstage Program to continue to position the state as a leading production center while boosting economic and workforce development.

“This will help give local filmmakers in central Illinois some additional tools to compete at a national level,” said State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign). “If we want to bring economic opportunity to our area through film, it’s important that the infrastructure is in place to make it happen.”

The Illinois Soundstage Capital Grant Program will help diversify the film industry. The Fields Studio located in Chicago received $5 million, Fresh Films in Rock Island received $3.8 million, and Flyover Studios in Champaign received $1.1 million through the program.

“Western Illinois’ film industry has so much potential,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Strategic state investment in our film infrastructure, including Fresh Films and the amazing work done at the Quad Cities Regional Film Office, will boost our local economy and give producers an affordable alternative to complete their projects.”

Read more: Local film industry to receive $10 million thanks to Senate Democrats