CHICAGO – A comprehensive relief package aimed at supporting working families, small businesses, and communities heavily impacted by COVID-19 and civil unrest will be available soon, announced State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago).

Aquino was key in the negotiations on behalf of the Latino Caucus to assemble a $900 million funding package, along with the Black Caucus, the Asian Caucus, and the Pritzker administration.

SPRINGFIELD – To mark the anniversary of the end of slavery in the U.S., State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) has proposed legislation that would make June 19—also known as Juneteenth, or Freedom Day—a state holiday. 

“It’s time Illinois recognizes and observes the day African Americans were actually given their freedom, not just on paper, but in practice,” Harris said. “Making June 19 a state holiday is a way to celebrate African Americans’ freedom and highlight not just how far we have come, but also remind us how far we have to go.”

The legislation would declare June 19 Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Illinois.

CHICAGO – A measure passed by the Chicago City Council Wednesday will allow the city’s bars and restaurants to take advantage of a law sponsored by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) permitting the sale of cocktails for delivery and curbside pickup. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating to independent bars and restaurants,” Feigenholtz said. “Without new means to help them survive this crisis, some may be forced to close their doors permanently. This law will give these businesses a critical new tool to help them stay afloat.”

AURORA — Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) is encouraging salon and barbershop owners who suffered during the COVID-19 Stay at Home Order to apply for Business Interruption Grants through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“Salons and barbershops were some of the hardest hit businesses during the Stay at Home Order,” Holmes said. “They couldn’t provide their services online or to-go. They simply had to shut down entirely. I encourage all eligible businesses to apply if they had significant losses during this period.”