SPRINGFIELD — Suburban township mental health boards approved by referendum last year will be able to collect the revenue needed to operate after legislation led by State Senator Ann Gillespie was signed into law Friday.

“I am grateful we were able to quickly advance legislation to amend an error within the referendums and allow our community mental health boards to provide vital services to those in need,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Residents made their voices heard when they approved the boards, and it is fundamental to democracy that we uphold their decision.”

Community mental health boards, or 708 boards, are appointed panels that levy property taxes to fund local organizations and community mental health initiatives. Referendums approving 708 boards in several townships – including Addison, Elgin, Lisle, Naperville, Schaumburg and Wheeling townships – and Will County were deemed invalid because they did not include language about how the tax to fund the board would impact homeowners.

Senate Bill 690 guarantees the results of these referendums, allowing affected townships to levy the tax necessary to fund the boards without re-submitting the referendum in 2024.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — State Senator Ann Gillespie has been chosen to join the 2023-24 cohort of the Milbank Fellows Program, a 10-month leadership program focused on public policy to improve health outcomes. This year’s class includes 24 legislative and executive branch leaders from around the country whose work demonstrates a commitment to bringing health equity to their communities.

“I am honored to join leaders from across the country who are also committed to improving health care outcomes within our communities,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “As a state senator with a background in health care, I have made it a priority to advance legislation addressing health care issues, including access and affordability. I look forward to using the knowledge and skills I gain from this program to make a difference in the lives of the people I represent.”

SPRINGFIELD – More individuals needing prosthetic or orthotic devices will soon have them covered by insurance under a measure sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie that was signed into law Monday.

"With this legislation, we are ensuring that those who use prosthetic or orthotic devices can acquire the most appropriate models to enhance their overall health," said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). "Expanding what is covered by insurance will allow more individuals to get the devices they need to regain mobility and participate in the activities they enjoy.”

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — State Senator Ann Gillespie is urging agencies across the 27th District to apply for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants.

“An investment in our parks is an investment in our community, and we have seen the positive impact these grants have had on park districts within the 27th District,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “I encourage local agencies to take advantage of the OSLAD program to improve and preserve outdoor spaces we all can enjoy.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will be accepting applications for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, grants through Aug. 31.

The program offers state-financed funding assistance to local governmental agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. A total of $56 million is available for this round of OSLAD grants. In addition, IDNR will once again provide funding to cover 100% of eligible projects located in economically distressed communities.

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 31 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Building on the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Ann Gillespie, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of more than $151.8 million in road and bridge improvement projects.

“By investing in our infrastructure, not only are we improving roads and bridges, but we are fueling local employment opportunities as well,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “These investments pave the way for skilled workers to contribute to the development of our state and foster economic growth for years to come.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the 27^th District will see 24 infrastructure projects totaling $151,806,000 over the next six years.

Some of the most vital projects coming to the area include:

• Bridge work and land acquisition on Palatine Road at Salt Creek in Palatine
• Bridge improvements, repaving, accessibility improvements and noise barriers along Illinois Route 53

These projects are part of IDOT’s Multi-Year Plan, a $40 billion investment in construction projects for the next six fiscal years. The project invests in all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, as well as bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

“Our community relies on well-maintained infrastructure to navigate daily life safely and efficiently,” Gillespie said. “These updates will address aging infrastructure, improve accessibility and benefit commuters in the long run.”

To find a full list of projects slated for the 27th Senate District, visit IDOT’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ann Gillespie led a new law to prohibit the consideration of immigration status during real estate transactions.

“This law sets clear boundaries, protecting the rights of immigrants and ensuring that financial institutions and service providers cannot engage in discriminatory practices,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Putting these protections in place will promote fairness to ensure people are not unjustly denied housing.”

The Illinois Human Rights Act will now include immigration status as a protected class, making it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their immigration status when renting or selling property. Landlords and property sellers cannot refuse to rent or sell, receive or transmit offers, or negotiate the terms of a deal with someone based on their immigration status.

Additionally, a third party loan modification service provider cannot refuse to engage in loan modification services or alter the terms of such services based on a person’s immigration status. Inquiry or use of immigration status is still allowed when required by either state or federal law.

“By making this change, we are breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for immigrants to establish homes and contribute to our communities,” Gillespie said. “Someone’s background should not disqualify them from buying or renting property.”

Senate Bill 1817 was signed into law Friday and will go into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ann Gillespie led a new law to prohibit the consideration of immigration status during real estate transactions.

“This law sets clear boundaries, protecting the rights of immigrants and ensuring that financial institutions and service providers cannot engage in discriminatory practices,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Putting these protections in place will promote fairness to ensure people are not unjustly denied housing.”

The Illinois Human Rights Act will now include immigration status as a protected class, making it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their immigration status when renting or selling property. Landlords and property sellers cannot refuse to rent or sell, receive or transmit offers, or negotiate the terms of a deal with someone based on their immigration status.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ann Gillespie’s comprehensive Medicaid package was signed into law today, which will expand access to care for thousands of Illinois residents and provide vital support for mental health services.

“Medicaid is a critical safety net for thousands of Illinois residents who rely on it for health care,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “By increasing reimbursement rates, expanding services and investing in telehealth, we can help providers offer affordable, quality care.”