SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Ram Villivalam participated in a rally Thursday hosted by the Illinois Environment Council to continue advocating for a cleaner environment in Illinois.
“Illinois’ current transportation system has major implications for climate, health and equity. Roughly nine million Illinois residents live in areas that regularly experience air that the EPA has determined is unsafe to breathe,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “That’s 71% of the state’s entire population, and that dirty air disproportionately impacts disadvantaged, overburdened communities of color. Unfortunately, our transportation sector massively contributes to that pollution.”
Villivalam is leading the charge in clean transportation efforts throughout Illinois, serving as chief sponsor of the Clean and Equitable Transportation Act. Senate Bill 3936 would reduce greenhouse gas emissions to be 100% carbon free sector-wide, while targeting other transportation needs that will establish clean energy and jobs.
Read more: Villivalam echoes need for clean and equitable transportation within Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Rachel Ventura led a resolution through the Senate to declare a day in Illinois to recognize child care providers.
“As a mother, I see the selfless dedication of child care providers and all they do to keep our children safe,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “It truly does take a village to help raise children, and for single parents, they can be a much needed lifeline.”
Senate Resolution 896 recognizes May 10, 2024 as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.
Read more: Ventura declares Child Care Provider Appreciation Day in Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – Standing alongside advocates from various health care organizations, State Senator Julie Morrison outlined her plan to expand private insurance coverage for medically necessary glucose monitors and related supplies.
“Increasing coverage of medically necessary services can greatly improve an individual’s quality of life,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “As chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, I am devoted to protecting people’s health and livelihood.”
Senate Bill 3414 would require insurance companies to cover glucose monitors, related supplies, and training in the use of glucose monitors for individuals diagnosed with any form of diabetes. The measure includes that an individual won’t need to have prior authorization for coverage for a glucose monitor and prohibits insurance from imposing cost-sharing requirements.
Read more: Morrison initiative to expand insurance coverage for diabetes supplies
SPRINGFIELD – To increase awareness, sensitivity and compassion for those affected by tardive dyskinesia, State Senator Laura Fine led a resolution to designate May 5-11, 2024 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in Illinois.
“People seeking treatment for a mental health condition are already experiencing personal hardships and may not realize their potential for developing tardive dyskinesia, which could further impact their emotional well-being,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is critical we understand what this condition means for an individual in order to best help them live with dignity and to give them necessary resources.”
Tardive dyskinesia is a condition characterized by uncontrollable movements affecting the face, torso and other body parts. This condition may develop after several months of taking certain medications to treat mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. Approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. experience symptoms of tardive dyskinesia.
Read more: Fine establishes Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week
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