SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to the leadership of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus, the state will soon see a bipartisan plan to eliminate pandemic-related unemployment debt and protect benefits for workers.

“In my brief tenure as Senate President, what I’m most proud of is the work we’ve done to restore fiscal stability, said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “This agreement is yet another step forward. I applaud everyone involved for coming to the table with workable ideas and the desire to be part of a solution.”

The unemployment trust was forced to borrow $4.5 billion in federal funds to provide economic relief to an unprecedented number of unemployed workers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This payment is the third significant contribution to the outstanding loan balance. $2.7 billion was contributed in March, and $450 million in September from the unemployment fund itself due to ongoing historically low unemployment claims.

“This action is just the latest building block in our efforts to improve the financial status of our state,” said State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora). “By paying what we owe and continuing to pass responsible budgets, our state’s fiscal status only continues to improve.”

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to protect the transgender and nonbinary community from criminal prosecution for seeking out gender-affirming health care, State Senator Mike Simmons initiated a new measure protecting families who seek out gender-affirming health care from criminal and civil prosecution.

“We are witnessing almost weekly attacks around the country on the rights and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities including roughly 300 repressive, anti-LGBTQ+ pieces of legislation introduced by state legislatures, and more pointed attacks including the Colorado Springs nightclub shooting last week at Club Q,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “It’s time to push back and introduce sweeping protections for LGBTQ+ communities, and especially trans youth who have been subject to mean-spirited and relentless attacks on their rights.”

Happy Thanksgiving!

With much to be grateful for this year, it was important for us to reach out and wish you a very safe and happy Thanksgiving.

This day reminds us all to acknowledge the blessings of the past year and to give thanks to the people who have helped us through tough times.

I hope that your home is filled with love and warmth, and that you are able to feel a sense of togetherness. Happy Thanksgiving!

Shop small this holiday season!

We also wanted to remind you this Saturday, Nov. 26 is Small Business Saturday. This annual event was created to encourage consumers to shop at locally-owned establishments during the holidays.

When shopping for gifts or dining out, residents can help our community by patronizing small businesses as much as possible. If money is tight, lend a hand to small business owners by leaving a positive review online, referring a friend, or engaging with your favorite businesses on social media. Don't forget to shop small this holiday season!

Illinois Made Holiday Gift Guide

Illinois Made has released the 2022 Holiday Gift Guide. Discover handmade pottery, candles and more for everyone on your list — all while supporting small businesses statewide.

Copyright 2022 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

KANKAKEE – During this holiday season, State Senator Patrick Joyce is encouraging people to write uplifting notes to veterans as part of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Operations Rising Spirit Campaign.

“It is important for our veterans to know they are honored and appreciated every day,” said Joyce (D- Essex). “The Operation Rising Spirit campaign makes sure that message is relayed.”

Operation Rising Spirit was first launched in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to support residents who were unable to visit with family and friends. The successful campaign encourages veterans and facilitates their connection with the community through positive, uplifting notes sent to veterans’ homes in Anna, LaSalle, Chicago, Manteno and Quincy.

“I encourage community members and organizations to take a moment and write letters to veterans who deserve our support and well wishes,” said Joyce. “This is a small act of kindness that will be very appreciated, especially with the holiday season approaching.”

To participate, notes may be sent directly to the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Letters will be disseminated equally to the five homes:

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Central Office

833 South Spring Street

P.O. Box 19432

Springfield, IL 62794-9432

Notes may also be sent directly through the IDVA website at https://www2.illinois.gov/veterans/services%20benefits/homes/Pages/send-a-note.aspx.

SPRINGFIELD - In the midst of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, State Senator Adriane Johnson reminds Illinois residents the importance of cancer screenings and preventative measures.

“This month, as we remember those who have succumbed to the disease, it is necessary that we also remember to do our part and get screened,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “Early detection is proven to increase the chances of survival.”

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman will host a virtual presentation and live Q&A about health insurance options through Get Covered Illinois.

Open enrollment through the Affordable Care Act ends Jan. 15, 2023. Listeners can learn about options for health insurance under Get Covered Illinois, the state’s Affordable Care Act marketplace.

Stadelman will be live with representatives from Get Covered Illinois and the Illinois Department of Insurance on Facebook Live Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. on his Facebook page.

What: Virtual Town Hall

Who: Residents of 34th legislative district and surrounding areas

When: 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6

Where: State Senator Steve Stadelman’s Facebook Live

Senate votes to bar investments to Russia

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate approved legislation last week prohibiting the investment of state funds in Russia.

“The Illinois Senate joins the international community in denouncing Russian’s ongoing, unconscionable acts of aggression against the Ukrainian people,” said Illinois Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park).

Read more.

Illinois Senate Democrats welcome Javier Cervantes as a new member

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus welcomes a new member - Javier Cervantes.

With deep roots in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Cervantes has a passion for community organizing and the creative arts. Cervantes passion and dedication led him to his career path at Service Employees International (SEIU Health Care Illinois and Indiana), dedicating 12 years as a union representative in this field.

Read more.

Murphy-led measure addresses vacancy stalemate at Niles-Maine Library

SPRINGFIELD – To address the ongoing stalemate at the Niles-Maine District Library, State Senator Laura Murphy is leading the charge to end the pandering that has left a trustee board seat vacant for over a year.

“The failure of the board to make an appointment, then the subsequent actions of some to challenge the State Librarian’s appointment, is putting the operations of the library at a standstill,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “It’s time for the board to put differences aside and prioritize the needs of the community.”

Read more.

Sound of the State: National Adoption Day

State Senator Sara Feigenholtz discusses her experience as an adoptee, as well as work she has done in the General Assembly to improve access to information for adoptees and other positive changes to the adoption system in Illinois.

Listen here.

In case you missed it

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Senator Omar Aquino, Chicago: Pritzker’s $1 Billion Emergency Rental Assistance for Renters and Landlords | Chicago Defender

Senators Meg Loughran Cappel, Shorewood, and Eric Mattson, Joliet: New air traffic control tower at Lewis University Airport opens Dec. 1 | Patch.com

Senator Steve Stadelman, Rockford: Innovative program could finish half-built Rockford subdivision | Rockford Register Star

Copyright 2022 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) released the following statement as State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala’s announced her retirement:

“As chair of Education, it has been an honor to work with Dr. Ayala to better the lives of students across Illinois. Her knowledge and passion for education and students showed through her work. Dr. Ayala overcame numerous trials and tribulations, consistently doing what was best for students.