Feigenholtz recognizes Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day

CHICAGO – In recognition of International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day on Sept. 9, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz is applauding efforts by health care providers, parents, self-advocates and community organizations who work to support the FASD community, increase education and awareness, and bring evidence-based services to those living with FASD and their families.

“Today, I join advocates to recognize International FASD Awareness Day and take this time to lift up the increasing need for FASD-informed supports and services in Illinois and across the nation,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “This day is a reminder that, although we have made tremendous advancements in diagnostics and screenings for a multitude of other preventable disorders, we have much work left to do to bring informed services to the FASD community and integrate supports within our other health, education, justice and care systems.”

FASD is an umbrella term that describes the range of physical, behavioral and intellectual disabilities than can occur when someone has been exposed to alcohol before birth. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders have been dubbed ‘the hidden epidemic’ because of the lack of supports, diagnostics and treatment services available to pregnant women, new mothers and their families.

“People with FASD and their families need accessible, affordable and competent systems of care that are evidence-based and fully funded,” said Feigenholtz. “I am proud to stand with my constituents, Bonnie and Michelle, today to highlight this critical need.”

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Decatur and Springfield set to receive more than $20 million in transit assistance

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is excited to see Decatur and Springfield transit systems receive more than $20 million in federal assistance to increase efficiency and gas emissions of their buses.

The United States Department of Transportation awarded $1.7 billion in grants for low- and no-emission buses and bus facilities programs – and Illinois transit systems received $71.1 million of the funding.

“Decatur and Springfield’s public transit systems help residents get to work, access medical care and connect our communities,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This assistance will help upgrade local buses, decrease vehicle emissions and train staff to operate and maintain these new vehicles.”

Read more: Decatur and Springfield set to receive more than $20 million in transit assistance

Wendell Phillips Academy unveils new gym with support from Sen. Hunter

CHICAGO – Thanks to years of support from State Senator Mattie Hunter, Wendell Phillips Academy High School unveiled a new athletic center Wednesday afternoon. In collaboration with Alderman Pat Dowell and the City of Chicago, a total of $17 million was secured to build the new facility.

“This project is very special to us all, and the community at large, as this is a one-of-a-kind investment in a community that has been historically underserved,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Phillips Academy was named as one of the best high schools in our state for athletics, and this newly-built facility will more adequately fit the needs of its students and staff.”

Read more: Wendell Phillips Academy unveils new gym with support from Sen. Hunter

Senator Robert Peters Joins Fight Corporate Monopolies Task Force

Washington, D.C. — With growing momentum sweeping across the United States to rein in the power of dominant corporations, State Senator Robert Peters announces the launch of Fight Corporate Monopolies Task Force, a new coalition of state and local leaders leading the charge.

“Corporate monopolies extract wealth from working class communities, particularly communities of color,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Companies like Amazon make deals in the shadows that dangerously fluctuate prices, suppress wages and propel a race to the bottom. We have to fight back against the unchecked power corporate monopolies exploit and the illusion that if we don’t give into that power, then we’re blocking economic development.”

Read more: Senator Robert Peters Joins Fight Corporate Monopolies Task Force