SPRINGFIELD — Beginning Jan. 1, residents will see expanded protections from utility disconnections on days of extreme heat, thanks to a new law from State Senator Mattie Hunter.
“For people who fall behind on their bills, having their utilities shut off on an extremely hot day can have dire consequences,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By recognizing the dangers of heat and the value in access to air conditioning and proper refrigeration, we are protecting some of our state’s most vulnerable.”
The Public Utilities Act — which prohibits utility shutoffs on days where the temperature is above 95 degrees Fahrenheit — will now include extreme heat events, factoring in humidity and the heat index. On days when the forecasted temperature is 90 degrees or above, or when the National Weather Service issues a heat watch, advisory or warning, residents’ utilities cannot be shut off, even if they are behind on paying their bills.
Read more: Hunter law preventing utility shutoffs takes effect Jan. 1
CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter, co-chair of the Illinois Kidney Disease Prevention and Education Task Force, spoke at a town hall Tuesday to share the task force’s progress and findings related to the prevention, detection and treatment of kidney disease.
“Kidney disease is largely preventable, yet it remains a leading cause of death in the United States,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “It is important to ramp up public awareness efforts surrounding risk factors, early detection, living donations and more to help end this health crisis.”
The town hall fostered community awareness and engagement through presentations, panel discussions and Q&A sessions. Members of the health equity, awareness and early detection, dialysis, and transplant and donation subcommittees highlighted research and progress on each topic.
Read more: Hunter leads town hall on kidney disease prevention, education efforts
CHICAGO – State Senator Mattie Hunter, a dedicated advocate for public health and champion of health legislation, held her annual Family Health and Fitness Fair on Aug. 5, bringing local residents together for a day of health screenings, resources and entertainment.
“Year after year, this health fair serves as a way to extend essential health services and information directly into our community,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By offering these free resources — including diabetes and kidney screenings and school physicals — we are encouraging families to prioritize their well-being.”
Read more: Hunter promotes community wellness at annual health fair
SPRINGFIELD — Under a new law championed by State Senator Mattie Hunter, the Illinois Department of Human Services will collect data on the frequency of stolen SNAP benefits. This comes in response to widespread reports of identity fraud leaving Illinois residents without needed funds to purchase groceries and other necessities.
"SNAP benefits are a lifeline for many Illinois families, and it's important that we do everything we can to ensure these benefits reach those who need them most," said Hunter (D-Chicago). "This new law will help us do that by shining a light on the scope of the problem and helping us develop more effective solutions."
Read more: Illinois targets SNAP benefit fraud, thanks to Senator Hunter
CHICAGO — Building on the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Mattie Hunter, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of more than $71.5 million in road and bridge improvement projects.
“These projects will upgrade and repair our infrastructure while bringing jobs to the 3rd District,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By revitalizing our roads and bridges, we are strengthening our local economy and making it safer for everyone to travel.”
As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, Hunter’s district will see six infrastructure projects totaling $71,553,000 over the next six years.
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.
"Chicago welcomes thousands of daily travelers," added Hunter. "Whether you're commuting to work, running errands or exploring the diverse offerings of our great city, improved infrastructure ensures you do so safely.”
To find a full list of projects slated for the 3rd Senate District, visit IDOT’s website.
CHICAGO – Health screenings, giveaways, live entertainment, ID services, family activities and more will be available at State Senator Mattie Hunter’s annual Family Health and Fitness Fair on Saturday, Aug. 5.
“This major community event is an opportunity to not only access free health screenings and valuable resources but enjoy fun activities for the whole family,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “From live entertainment to giveaways and free services, there’s something for everyone. Stop by and take advantage of everything offered while learning how to prioritize your health and wellness.”
Held at the Illinois Institute of Technology for its 19th year, this large event features free health screenings including kidney and diabetes screenings from the National Kidney Foundation, school physicals from St. Bernard’s Mobile Health Unit, and dental screenings from Roseland Dental. Representatives from the Illinois Secretary of State will be on site offering state IDs and vehicle plate stickers (fees apply), and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office will provide free electronics recycling and medicine disposal.
Attendees can visit dozens of vendors offering resources and giveaways. The fair will recognize former Secretary of State Jesse White for his years of service to the state, include a balloon release for cancer survivors, and feature entertainment by the Jesse White Tumblers, Fre2Dance Line Dancers and more.
The fair is co-hosted by the Illinois Institute of Technology and the Institute for Positive Living, with ComEd as the lead sponsor.
For more information, call Senator Hunter’s office at 312-949-1908 or visit www.SenatorHunter.com.
WHO: State Senator Mattie Hunter, State Representatives Kimberly Du Buclet and Sonya Harper, the Illinois Institute of Technology, and the Institute For Positive Living
WHAT: A free health fair event for families and children of all ages
WHERE: Illinois Institute of Technology on the field north of S. R. Crown Hall at 33rd and State Street
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter, convener of the South Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force, is inviting the community to the task force’s inaugural street outreach event, which will provide information and support to those affected by substance use.
“We want to make sure that everyone has access to the tools and information they need to stay safe,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This event is a great opportunity for those struggling with substance abuse to learn about the resources available to them and will help equip our community with the knowledge and supplies they need to save lives.”
Read more: Hunter invites public to outreach event targeting opioid addiction
SPRINGFIELD — To further reinforce the goals of the Department of Children and Family Services, State Senator Mattie Hunter’s legislation that removes obsolete language from the Children and Family Services Act was signed into law.
“DCFS services are meant to be temporary, and our focus should remain on reuniting children with their families or placing them in safe, permanent homes,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This law makes these goals clear and ensures the language within this important act is current and compliant.”
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