Welcome to my May newsletter.
Please contact my District Office with any questions or concerns regarding state issues. We’re here to help!
FIGHTING FOR YOU!
Monthly Daily Journal Column
I have had the pleasure of writing a column for the Daily Journal once per month during my term. This month’s column focuses on the end of the legislative session and the budget. You can read the full article Here!
Legislative Updates
HB 3599
“The passage of House Bill 3599 is a huge win for Illinoisans, as this will make community-based mobile integrated health care services available when medically necessary. This may be offered as an alternative to the more costly utilization of emergency medical services accessed through 911 and emergency departments. This bill allows for the creation of billing codes that will permit insurance and managed care companies to fund the services provided by mobile integrated health care units…” HERE
Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget
Once again, the Illinois state budget was passed in the early morning hours, under the cover of darkness when most Illinoisans are asleep. This budget is yet another unbalanced, highly partisan budget that does not benefit the people of Illinois. Here
SB 2412
Senate Bill 2412 was officially signed into law. This bill is a last-ditch effort to affect the results of the 2024 election through sneaky and deceptive tactics. I am deeply disappointed in the majority party for upending our current legal processes in a way that lacks transparency, reeks of self-serving political motivation, and completely disregards the desire of the electorate.
Around the District & Under the Dome
Local Business Spotlight
For my May 2024 local business spotlight, I am honored to recognize Hoppy Pig in Bradley for their dedication to giving back to our local community. While they are involved with our community in many ways, I truly appreciate their continued support of local police and fire departments. I want to commend Tom and Karen on their hard work at Hoppy Pig and for their desire to give back to others. Local businesses that go above and beyond to help others are the backbone of our economy and our community.
The Power Of the Purse by Women United
Thank you to my staff for attending the Power of the Purse event while I was away in Springfield! This event is a great fundraiser for local non-profits!
Kankakee Police Memorial
Thank you to my staff who attended the Kankakee Police Memorial Ceremony while I am away in Springfield! This important memorial is a reminder of the sacrifices made each day by the brave men and women who keep our communities safe.
Monee Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
I had the honor of attending the LEAD (Law Enforcement Appreciation Day) event in Monee! Thank you for all you do to serve and protect!
Weekend in the District
Great weekend to be back home in district! Got to attend several events, see and talk to so many folks! Now it’s back to work at the capitol to finish up the spring session! #MoneeLEAD – Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, #IGotYourSix5K, 34th Annual Rhubarb Fest – #KankakeeCountyMuseum
Monee Job Fair
The Monee Health and Job Fair was a huge success! This fair is such a great community resource and I was honored to participate!
Leadership and Lunch
My staff attended the Leadership and Lunch event hosted by the Kankakee Chamber of Commerce and Olivet Nazarene University! Ted Petersen was the keynote speaker for this great event promoting local leadership. Ted is a great friend and such an inspirational speaker!
Community Foundation of the Kankakee River Valley Awards Luncheon
Congratulations to all of the 2024 grant recipients announced at the community foundation awards luncheon! These grants will go to good use in some wonderful community initiatives!
Shred Event
Thank you to everyone who braved the rain and came out for our shred event! It was great to partner with the Village of Monee to provide this service to our community!
Fallen Firefighter Memorial
We paid tribute to the Illinois firefighters who have given their lives in the line of duty at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony in Springfield. May their bravery and sacrifice never be forgotten.
Around the Capitol
So much going on around the Capitol on the floor, in committees, and with visitors! Had the pleasure of visiting Sparc with our very own House page Brandon. Attended the annual Police memorial ceremony and had the honor of visiting with several hometown heroes. Thanks to the Chicago FOP for providing lunch to everyone! On Friday I wore green on the house floor for mental health awareness. Also spent time with my COWL colleagues and many Girl Scouts to help teach them about the legislative process on the House floor!
Other Happenings:
Governor’s Hometown Awards
Applications for the 2024 Governor’s Hometown Awards are now open! This program gives formal recognition to projects that improved a community’s quality of life from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. The due date for applications is June 14, at 5pm CST!
Youth Police Camp
The Team Illinois Youth Police Camp is a week-long program that challenges young adults to better themselves through the philosophy of “Teamwork, Commitment and Pride.”
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
Blood Drive
June 7, 11:00 AM-4:00 PM
Bourbonnais Municipal Center
700 Main St NW, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Traveling Office Hours
Park Forest – Park Forest Public Library (400 Lakewood Blvd.)- The last Thursday of each month, (10 AM -1 PM)
Monee – Monee Village Hall (5130 W. Court St.) every Second and Fourth Wednesday, 9 AM – 12 PM