Senators wish communities a happy Independence Day, remind residents to stay safe

With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus are reminding communities to celebrate safely and to reflect on the meaning of the day.

“As a veteran, I encourage people to remember why we celebrate the Fourth of July,” said Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago). “We commemorate those individuals who fought for our independence and the troops who continue to make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”

Independence Day celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which declared that the thirteen American colonies would no longer be under the rule of Britain’s King George III and united the colonies as free and independent states.

From family picnics to big firework shows, people across Illinois will celebrate the freedom granted to this great nation years ago.

“The Fourth of July commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made for our freedom,” State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) said. “As we celebrate our country’s freedom, it’s important to remember those who fought for our independence then and those who serve our country today.”

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Munoz appointed to Veteran’s Advisory Council

CHICAGO – Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) has been appointed to the Illinois Veteran’s Advisory Council to address significant issues and concerns of Illinois veterans.

“As a veteran, I am proud to be appointed to the Veteran’s Advisory Council,” Munoz said. “One of my top priorities as a legislator has always been to protect and support veterans. I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure veterans are taken care of.”

The council is empowered to review and study the issues and concerns that are most significant to Illinois veterans and advise the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs on how to address the issues and concerns.

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Sims praises the success of Illinois’ improved bond ratings

CHICAGO— For the first time in more than two decades, the state of Illinois has received a bond rating upgrade from Moody’s Investors Service. Following the announcement, State Senator Elgie Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“When budget negotiations first began this Spring, I vowed to move Illinois toward fiscal stability by working with other leaders in taking a responsible approach for a brighter future for all Illinoisans.  Moody’s ratings upgrade coupled with the recent positive economic outlook by Fitch shows that all of the hard work and determination that went into a plan that moves Illinois forward and puts taxpayers first is working. The state of Illinois is headed in a positive direction and I am very proud of our progress.

I looking forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Governor to continue our collective efforts to improve the state’s financial condition and to ensure fiscal stability and growth for all Illinoisans. Our work continues.”

Senators engage communities with weekend events

Over the weekend, five senators hosted events in their communities to engage with and provide services for their constituents.

On Friday, Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) hosted an event with the Secretary of State’s Mobile Driver Services Unit, which offered residents a convenient way to renew or correct driver’s licenses, renew license plate stickers, and more. About 25 residents took the opportunity to access these services.

Also on Friday, Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) attended an event designating the University of Illinois’ Chez Veteran Center’s as a Purple Heart University for its services to veterans.

“Partnerships like this allow us to bring essential services directly to our constituents,” Ellman said. “Whenever I have the chance to bring services right to our residents, I'm going to jump on it.”

“It was an honor to attend the U of I’s Chez Veteran Center,” Bennett said. “As the largest student veteran center in the country, it gives veteran students a community on campus, and this designation is a recognition of all its important work.”

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