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.” 

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Students enrolled in District 214’s Culinary Arts ProStart Career Pathway rose to the challenge as they baked sweet and savory breads during State Senator Ann Gillespie’s second annual Great District 214 Culinary Competition Bake-Off on Thursday.

“I am so impressed with the talent and creativity students displayed this year,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Congratulations to our winners; I know you will be successful as you continue your culinary journey.”

Teams from Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove and Rolling Meadows high schools competed in savory and sweet categories. The winning dishes, both from Elk Grove High School teams, were jalapeño popper monkey bread from Alejandro Pons Jurado and Jonathan Alvarado in the savory category, and caramel macchiato cream cheese muffins from Samantha Rowan and Adam Chamala in the sweet category. The students will each receive scholarship funds to attend Harper College.

Dishes were evaluated by a panel of judges that included Gillespie; Grace Goudie, executive chef at Scratchboard Kitchen; Heather Henkel, manager/confectioner at Kilwin’s; Charlie Brown, executive chef at The Moorings; and Brian Baseggio, chef at The Makerplace, Arlington Heights Memorial Library.

The Bake-Off was held in Arlington Heights Memorial Library’s Makerplace facility in partnership with Township High School District 214, Harper College, Arlington Heights Memorial Library and the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce.

SPRINGFIELD – People needing a prosthetic or orthotic device to perform certain physical activities may soon have an easier time obtaining the equipment they need, thanks to a measure led by State Senator Ann Gillespie.

“Proper prosthetic and orthotic devices can be life-changing,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “It is unacceptable that a lack of insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs prevent people from getting the devices they need to be physically active.”

Current law requires accident and health insurance plans to cover prosthetic and orthotic devices when they are deemed medically necessary. Senate Bill 2195, which passed the Illinois Senate on Wednesday, expands the definition of what is considered medically necessary to include physical activities like running, biking, swimming and weight lifting.

SPRINGFIELD — Youth in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services often have several adults speaking on their behalf regarding what is in their best interest. To ensure youth have a say in their future and guaranteed legal representation, State Senator Ann Gillespie passed legislation out of the Senate on Friday.

“Youth in care are the experts when it comes to what they need; they should have a say in the decisions being made about their lives,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This legislation gives youth in care an attorney who will elevate their voice and advocate for their wishes.”

SPRINGFIELD — Building on her commitment to creating long-term solutions for affordable housing shortages across the state, State Senator Ann Gillespie passed legislation in the Illinois Senate that will require more communities to have plans in place to meet the needs of low- to moderate-income families.

“A lack of access to affordable living spaces is a challenge we must continue to address,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “There is more to be done to make sure families, including our most vulnerable, do not find themselves priced out of the area in which they reside.”

Under the Illinois Affordable Housing Planning and Appeal Act, local governments are exempt if at least 10% of their housing stock consists of affordable housing. This designation results in about 46 of Illinois' 1,298 municipalities being covered by the act, which requires a plan detailing the total number of affordable housing units available and intended steps to ramp up offerings to meet demand.