Simmons Attends White House States Convening on Child Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In conversation with legislators from across the country, State Senator Mike Simmons was proud to attend the White House States Convening on Child Care on Friday morning, where he highlighted his passage of Illinois’ first permanent child tax credit, advocated for more accessible child care, and discussed the importance of fair compensation for child care workers. 

“I am honored to have been invited back by the Biden-Harris Administration to participate in the White House Convening on Child Care on Friday morning. I was especially proud to share that since last year’s convening, I and my colleagues have passed the first permanent child tax credit in Illinois, legislation that was directly informed by 7th District single moms who participate in my People’s Legislative Council initiative,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). 

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Policy priorities and engagement take center stage at ‘Raices’ conference

The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus held an impactful "Raices" conference this year, where its Senate members engaged with community members and organizers. The mid-September event featured roundtable discussions that fostered dialogue around policies and priorities, allowing attendees to share their ideas and concerns. This collaborative environment not only facilitated networking but also aimed to shape the 2025 Raices policy priorities, ensuring that community voices are heard and represented in legislative efforts.

Several panels centered on equity, justice, and community development, offering Senate members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus profound insights into the needs and aspirations of community members. These discussions deepened their understanding of pressing issues, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges faced by the community.

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Aquino announces new investments in quantum coming to Humboldt Park

CHICAGO – State Senator Omar Aquino joined state leaders and EeroQ Corporation leadership to announce new investments in the company’s quantum headquarters in Chicago’s Humboldt Park community.

“I’m pleased that EeroQ will continue to grow in Humboldt Park, where their quantum facility expansion will house technology development and world-class workers that could make life-changing discoveries,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “The state of Illinois is making critical investments in the technology of the future with each quantum computing company we support with State-sponsored incentives.”

As part of the state's comprehensive incentive package, EeroQ received an EDGE for Startups tax credit, and has committed to making a $1.1 million investment, creating five new full-time jobs and retaining eight full-time jobs.

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Villivalam hosts fifth subject matter hearing on how transit mitigates climate impact

CHICAGO – Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing Thursday to discuss how public transit mitigates climate impact.

“As public transit continues to positively impact our climate, it is imperative that we have discussions about what we can do to continue making progress,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Today’s hearing included discussions about what is being done proactively to ensure that public transit helps mitigate the current climate impact, the importance of public transit to Lake County and North Cook County residents, and what can be done going forward.”

Across the Regional Transit Authority region, public transit is expected to hit a $730 million fiscal cliff in 2026, as federal COVID-19 pandemic funding is running out.

Read more: Villivalam hosts fifth subject matter hearing on how transit mitigates climate impact