Senate Democrats applaud announcement of 10 state-designated cultural districts

CHICAGO — Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus joined Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to celebrate communities across the state being honored as State-Designated Cultural Districts.

“The Humboldt Park community has such a rich and vibrant culture,” said State Senator Natalie Toro (D-Chicago). “The State-Designated Cultural Districts Program and this official designation allows us to share and preserve our heritage and traditions while building a critical foundation for continued investment.”

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Local film industry to receive $10 million thanks to Senate Democrats

SPRINGFIELD — Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus helped secure funding through the Illinois Soundstage Program to continue to position the state as a leading production center while boosting economic and workforce development.

“This will help give local filmmakers in central Illinois some additional tools to compete at a national level,” said State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign). “If we want to bring economic opportunity to our area through film, it’s important that the infrastructure is in place to make it happen.”

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Porfirio advances legislation to bridge military duties and civic engagement for service members on active duty status

SPRINGFIELD — Military service members on active duty status who represent part of a public body – such as a village board, school district or township – may soon be allowed to attend meetings remotely, thanks to a new measure passed by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“It is our duty to create a more inclusive and adaptable environment for all members of our community, especially those who selflessly serve in the military,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), a member of the Navy Reserve. “This legislation reflects our commitment to ensuring service members on active duty status can participate in discussions and decisions that impact our communities and the people they have dedicated their lives to protecting.”

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Sound of the State: Addressing Illinois' Behavioral Health Workforce Shortage

As the behavioral health workforce continues to drop and patients searching for mental health care is on the rise, State Senator Laura Fine and State Representative Lindsey LaPointe discuss the severity of the shortage and their recommendations to address statewide concerns in this episode of the Sound of the State.

Listen here.

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