General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
We just wrapped up a pivotal week in the State Senate. I am elated to announce that I passed SB689, the first bill in the country that outlaws local book banning in schools and libraries.
The legislation preempts school boards, districts, and library systems from banning books and includes protections for historically targeted communities.
As the first openly LGBTQ+ person in the Illinois Senate and our district’s first Black senator, this work is deeply personal to me and our community.
Watch my WGN-TV interview and read more about SB689 and other legislative updates below.
Our office also launched small business support initiatives and a monthly townhall series.
Sincerely,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Legislative Updates
Caption: Senator Mike Simmons announces passage of nine House bills and SB689 through committee.
I am proud to share that I passed nine House Bills out of committee, all reflecting the needs of 7th District constituents.
In addition, SB689 advances to the House and protects access to books and library materials statewide.
Key House Bills passed out of committee:
- HB 1591: Protects marriage equality and removes barriers for same-sex couples.
- HB 2464: Improves pedestrian safety through traffic control upgrades.
- HB 1596: Updates language in child welfare laws for inclusivity.
- HB 2131: Creates the Zero Traffic Fatalities Task Force.
- HB 2297: Expands workforce tracking for gender-diverse employees.
- HB 2562: Ensures safe heating and cooling standards for senior housing.
- HB 2776: Improves transparency for lead service line replacements.
- HB 3414: Protects youth survivors of trafficking in court proceedings.
- HB 3631: Protects pharmacists from retaliation for reporting violations.
Housing Transition Committee Appointment
Caption: Senator Mike Simmons with Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson at the Illinois General Assembly.
I am honored to join Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson’s Housing Transition Committee.
We share a commitment to building affordable, accessible, and safe communities for all residents.
I look forward to contributing to housing policy planning for the first 100 days of his administration.
