This Memorial Day weekend, the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrates the contributions of all who served in the military. It is a day to honor the men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As people across the state enjoy village parades, backyard barbeques and time with family and friends, it’s vital to take time to honor and reflect upon the people who sacrificed everything.

Two of the caucus’ very own, State Senators Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) and Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) know firsthand the importance of Memorial Day.

Happy Memorial Day!

Greetings to you and your family on this Memorial Day weekend. Unlike Veterans Day, in which we celebrate the contributions of all who served in the military, Memorial Day is a time when we honor those men and women of our armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As we enjoy village parades, backyard barbeques and time with family and friends, let us take some time to honor and reflect upon the people who sacrificed everything.

We must not only honor those who have given their lives for our country, but also ensure that when veterans come home, they have access to jobs and health care. We will work together to advocate for veterans returning to their families and communities.

We hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day.

Sound of the State: Hear from the Senate Democrats' own veterans

As veterans, State Senators Michael Hastings and Tony Munoz know firsthand the importance of Memorial Day – to honor the men and women of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Hear their thoughts during this episode of the Sound of the State HERE.

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SPRINGFIELD – Spouses of people in Medicaid-funded long-term care facilities will soon be able to keep more of their own personal savings thanks to State Senator Julie Morrison.

“By aligning Illinois’ allowance for community spouses with the rest of the country, we are signaling to older adults that we care for them and wish to give them the ability to care for themselves and their spouse with no added stress,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This is their money – there’s no reason they shouldn’t be have access to it.”

PEORIA – A legislative package supported by State Senator Dave Koehler to improve public safety and offer financial protections to Illinoisans who are victims of auto theft was signed into law Thursday.

“Car thefts are on the rise, and too many Illinoisans are paying the price,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “These laws take a multifaceted approach to prevent, address, and reduce these crimes.”

SPRINGFIELD – Under a new law signed Friday, Medicaid coverage will be available for undocumented individuals age 42 and up as well as to expecting mothers who choose to utilize midwifery services.

“This new law is a win when it comes to increasing equity in our health care system,” Castro said. “These two major changes, as well as increasing rates for behavioral health services, additional funding for medical transportation services and more, will make services more accessible to more vulnerable Illinoisans.”

SPRINGFIELD – Drivers across Illinois will benefit from a package of measures that aim to deter future car thefts and hijackings thanks to the support of State Senator Doris Turner.

According to a January report from CNN, cities around the country have seen an increase in the rate of carjackings.

“No one should ever have to fear if their car will be violently taken from them. But unfortunately the sad reality is more and more people are becoming victims of carjackings each day,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This has to stop. We must do all we can to combat this nationwide epidemic and alleviate the financial and emotional stress these crimes cause.”

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation to include motorcycles in the discussion of electric transportation—specifically to incentivize the purchase and use of electric motorcycles—was signed into law this month.

“As we start to see more and more electric vehicles on the road, we need to make sure that electric motorcycles get the same support,” said Joyce (D-Essex).

AURORA – To address ever-increasing rates of vehicle thefts in Illinois, State Senator Linda Holmes supported three measures to offer protections to motorists and assistance to investigators that were signed into law Thursday.

“Families and motorists shouldn’t fear being on the roads because of a risk of being carjacked,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “These three new laws will help law enforcement crack down on car thefts, as well as providing financial protection to victims.”