Healthcare Protection Act signed into law thanks to Peters

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the signing of his historic legislation – the Healthcare Protection Act – to reform predatory health insurance practices and protect patients:

“Like so many Illinois residents, I know the anxiety and fear that comes with navigating our health care system – especially right now as my wife and I are looking to have children in the near future and exploring fertility treatment options."

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Illinois bans 'junk' insurance plans thanks to Fine

CHICAGO — State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) released the following statement after Governor JB Pritzker signed a package of health insurance reforms – including House Bill 2499 that bans short-term health insurance plans:

“As we strive to put Illinois at the forefront of health care, we cannot afford to leave out consumers who depend on their health insurance plans to meet their medical needs. Right now, many Illinoisans who choose short-term – or junk insurance – plans for their health care coverage are left vulnerable to the high costs and low coverage."

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Villivalam hosts first subject matter hearing on the state of public transit

CHICAGO — With public transit in the RTA region approaching a budget deficit in 2026, Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing regarding the state of public transit and how it supports the local economy.

“We were able to have crucial and robust conversations about the current state of public transit and its relation to our economy,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Many key stakeholders, from the agencies to business and labor groups, were able to share their insights as to how we can maintain and improve service, and what we can do to underpin a vibrant economy.”

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Copyright 2024 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

EAST ST. LOUIS – As part of the historic $45 billion Rebuild Illinois Capital program backed by State Senator Christopher Belt, the Metro East area saw two major investments come to life– a new public safety center in Emerson Park Transit Center in East St. Louis and the new Southwestern Illinois College Manufacturing Training Apprenticeship Building in Belleville.

“These are the types of investments that will truly make a difference in our region,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With the Rebuild Illinois program, we are able to make facilities like this become a reality.”

The 16,000-square-foot public safety center includes a 911 Emergency Dispatch Center, office space for St. Clair County MetroLink Sheriff’s Deputies and public restrooms. The $15 million project expands on efforts to address safety through early intervention with Chestnut Health Systems launching a program in partnership with the St. Clair County Transit District to help address mental health needs. Care teams already have been deployed to assist riders with mental health and housing needs, as well as providing recommendations for food and other assistance.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) released the following statement after Governor JB Pritzker signed a package of health insurance reforms on Wednesday – including House Bill 2499 that bans short-term health insurance plans:

“As we strive to put Illinois at the forefront of health care, we cannot afford to leave out consumers who depend on their health insurance plans to meet their medical needs. Right now, many Illinoisans who choose short-term – or ‘junk’ insurance – plans for their health care coverage are left vulnerable to the high costs and low coverage. 

“I have been a strong advocate for expanding access to affordable health care services, and this includes securing quality health care coverage so all Illinoisans can receive necessary medical treatment.

CHICAGO — Today, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement following the signing of his historic legislation – the Healthcare Protection Act – to reform predatory health insurance practices and protect patients:

“Like so many Illinois residents, I know the anxiety and fear that comes with navigating our health care system – especially right now as my wife and I are looking to have children in the near future and exploring fertility treatment options.

“It is hard enough trying to navigate the day in and day out of life – our health care policies and procedures shouldn’t add to that. Insurance is supposed to ease the burden of accessing health care, not create further obstacles.

CHICAGO - With public transit in the RTA region approaching a budget deficit in 2026, Senate Transportation Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing on Tuesday regarding the state of public transit and how it supports the local economy.

“Today, we were able to have crucial and robust conversations about the current state of public transit and its relation to our economy,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Many key stakeholders, from the agencies to business and labor groups, were able to share their insights as to how we can maintain and improve service, and what we can do to underpin a vibrant economy.”

As heard from constituents, public transit riders are currently facing issues including delayed service, no routes or limited coordination of services between providers. This presents an issue for many, as they are left without reliable transportation to reach essential places or services such as health care appointments, jobs or education.

Sims: We are seeing tangible proof that responsible governance and steadfast stewardship yield positive results

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. was proud to lead a fiscally responsible spending plan that led the state to end Fiscal Year 2024 approximately $125 million, or .2%, above projected FY24 General Funds revenue estimates.

"Illinois reached new fiscal milestones and we are seeing tangible proof that responsible governance and steadfast stewardship yield positive results,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “This announcement underscores our commitment to restoring fiscal stability and rebuilding trust through transparency and prudent financial management."

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Faraci applauds $51 million investment to UIUC-led iFAB tech hub

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci and the U.S. Economic Development Administration announced approximately $51 million for the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Tech Hub.

“I am thrilled to see the iFAB Tech Hub receive this funding,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This investment emphasizes the importance of promoting cutting-edge research and development in our state. We are paving the way for projects and services that will benefit our communities and economy for generations to come.”

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Hastings measure to alleviate highway noise now law

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents can now receive relief from noisy highway traffic, thanks to a new law sponsored by State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

“Our roads, bridges and highways generate economic development across our great state,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “However, at times this comes with noisy and uncomfortable consequences for our neighbors who live near these major roadways.”

Read more.

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Copyright 2024 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Wishing you a happy and safe Fourth of July

Happy Fourth of July! From family picnics to big firework shows, I hope you have a fun and safe time celebrating.

There’s nothing quite like enjoying the holiday with friends and family at a local firework show or festival.

Remember: Stay safe this weekend. Plan on how you’ll get home from festivities and follow firework safety tips.

Wishing you a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Copyright 2024 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

CHICAGO - Senator Willie Preston commended the Food and Drug Administration for its decision to ban brominated vegetable oil, a harmful food additive that has posed significant health risks to consumers for decades.

"It’s great that the FDA has finally banned brominated vegetable oil, a dangerous additive that has no place in our food,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “However, this is just one step, and we need the FDA to ban other harmful additives such as red dye 3."

Preston is pleased with the steps the FDA has taken, but emphasizes that more action is needed to protect public health, particularly in Illinois.