The Majority Report 06/24/22 - Protecting access to care

Details: Category: Majority Report; Friday, June 24, 2022 05:06 PM

President Harmon reacts to SCOTUS decision on Roe v. Wade

OAK PARK – Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) issued the following statement today after the Supreme Court issued an opinion overturning Roe v. Wade:

“Today’s ruling is a distressing departure from five decades of precedent and a devastating blow to women around the country.

This decision turns the clock back to a time when women did not have autonomy over their own bodies and died trying to access health care.

Over the past few years, we took many steps in Illinois to affirm a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body.

As long as there is a Democratic majority in the Illinois State Senate, we will continue to protect those rights.”

Castro plan to address wage theft in the construction industry signed by governor

ELGIN – Construction workers who are not fairly compensated by subcontractors will soon be given an opportunity to collect unpaid wages, thanks to a new law spearheaded by State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin).

“Wage theft is a real problem, especially in the construction industry, which can have a complicated web of involved companies,” Castro said. “This law will provide a mechanism for the workers who have been slighted to receive their fair compensation and encourage primary contractors to employ reputable subcontractors.”

New Villa law protects nursing home residents in Illinois

WEST CHICAGO – In partnership with community members and other professionals on her Senior Advisory Committee, State Senator Karina Villa championed a new law to protect the dignity and rights of nursing home residents across Illinois and ensure they are afforded the highest quality of care.

“Many families struggle with the decision to placed loved ones in long-term care facilities,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “With everything that goes into this decision, families shouldn’t also have to worry about abuse or neglect.”

Insulin-dependent diabetics will soon receive an easier way to track their blood sugar thanks to Morrison

CHICAGO – To give insulin-dependent diabetics a more effective way to manage their blood sugar levels, State Senator Julie Morrison championed a newly signed law to require insurance plans to cover continuous glucose monitors.

“This is a development in science that should be available to help people better regulate their diabetes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Glucose monitoring systems should be covered the same as other medical equipment.”

Sound of the State: Celebrating Pride Month

As we celebrate Pride Month, State Senators Laura Fine (D-Glenview) and Robert Peters (D-Chicago) highlight legislative initiatives and steps we can all take to help foster and create a culture that encourages Illinois’ LGBTQ+ communities to come together and celebrate the freedom to be themselves during this episode of the Sound of the State podcast.

Listen here.

members in the news