Hastings works to increase support for families of fallen first responders

SPRINGFIELD – Families of first responders that were killed in the line of duty may soon have additional support thanks to State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

Hastings (D-Frankfort) serves as a chief cosponsor of House Bill 4161, which would require an option on state individual income tax returns to donate to the 100 Club of Illinois Fund.

The 100 Club of Illinois is a nonprofit that provides resources, several forms of financial support, access to training, and moral support to both the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and active duty first responders throughout the state.

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Collins: Transparency from the Department of Insurance is promising

SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) reflects on the compliance of the Illinois Department of Insurance to investigate auto insurance charges during the pandemic.

“As a proud advocate for the prevention of predatory business practices, I am pleased the Illinois Department of Insurance responded to the demands of myself, my colleagues and advocacy organizations,” Collins said. “The investigation is the first step in facilitating accountability within our financial institutions.”

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Simmons tours Black-owned business with Governor Pritzker

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) welcomed Governor JB Pritzker to the 7th district last week where they toured Good to Go, a restaurant in Evanston specializing in Jamaican cuisine.

“It was an honor showing Governor Pritzker one of the best restaurants in my community,” Simmons said. “We are proud to have one of the most diverse communities in Illinois and in the nation, where people from all around the world can prosper and share their rich culture through food and conversation. I am especially proud and appreciative that Governor Pritzker takes the time to visit and show genuine appreciation for all that these small businesses add to our community.”

Good to Go is owned by Tony and Lenice Levy. Lenice Levy recently received the businessperson of the year award from the Evanston Chamber of Commerce in February.

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Murphy supports students from working families, creates tax credits for students attending IL public universities

SPRINGFIELD –Affording higher education could get easier for middle class students in Illinois, thanks to a new measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines).

“Middle class families often struggle with the cost of higher education,” Murphy said. “This measure can provide some relief to ease this financial burden that many working parents face."

Currently, there are many initiatives making higher education more affordable for children of low-income families. However, there are few programs that provide assistance to middle-class families, who also come under large financial strain when sending their children to college but are unqualified to apply for existing relief programs because of their income.

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