General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
I’m writing today from Springfield! We are in the final few weeks of Spring session, and while that means it is an incredibly busy and fast-paced time of year, I want to keep you updated as best I can on what is happening and how it affects you.
Since my last newsletter, three additional bills of mine have passed through committee. House Bill 2589 passed through the Senate Public Health Committee, and clarifies that patients who have prescriptions for injectable medications are entitled to also purchase clean needles from a pharmacist. In my continuing dedication to fighting for clean and safe water in Illinois, House Bill 2391 passed through the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee, and would allow the use of treated municipal wastewater for industrial purposes. This is a smart, forward-thinking way to conserve resources and protect our environment. Finally, House Bill 2675 passed through the Senate Transportation Committee, which clarifies Senate Bill 1710, by directing local government and municipality-owned bicycle trails to install signage or other warning markers alerting cyclists to known emergencies or hazards.
Also below you’ll see a handful of pictures from Springfield - I hope they provide a sense of the action and advocacy that happens every day! I know it is not easy to come to Springfield, especially for folks from the 7th District. It has been amazing and inspiring to get to meet with so many constituents and advocates this year, and it really helps drive home your priorities, ideas, and asks. To everyone who has visited so far - thank you for your dedication, time, and planning. I hear and see you and will be sure to keep your priorities with me as we enter the last few weeks of spring session!
Even as I write this, I am realizing just how busy the past few weeks have been. My district staff and I supported an incredible job fair in Rogers Park hosted by the Howard Evanston Community Center attended by over 300 job-seekers, helped direct traffic and unload boxes of documents at the 40th Ward Shred Event, held stakeholder meetings, attended events on my behalf, assisted constituents with state resources on a daily basis, and continue to respond to hundreds of emails, phone calls, and walk-ins. If you are interested in volunteering with our office, now is a great time to reach out! We have opportunities both in and outside of the office, and would love to talk with you.
Finally, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the AIDS Foundation, where, alongside Representative Cassidy, I was honored to receive the Greg Harris Legislative Champion Award. I have not and will not accept repressive LGBTQ+ policies, and am determined to ensure Illinois is a safe haven for folx seeking refuge when experiencing persecution in another state. I know this is happening, and am determined to fight and allow myself to DREAM not only for myself, but for our LGBTQ+ young people who deserve to grow up into a future where they can fully be themselves.
Sincerely,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Senator Simmons Receives AIDS Foundation Legislative Champion Award
Caption: Senator Simmons receives the AIDS Foundation Representative Greg Harris Legislative Champion Award
On April 5, it was an honor to receive the Representative Greg Harris Legislative Champion Award from the AIDS Foundation. As the first openly LGBTQ+ Illinois State Senator, and on behalf of the 7th District which is home to Illinois’ highest concentration of LGBTQ+ households, I was deeply humbled and proud to receive this honor. In a time where we are facing unrelenting and repressive policies from the federal government, I fall back on my calling. I was born to do this work, and I will continue to stand up for the LGBTQ+ community and refugees that contact me and visit my office every day; scared, and many times seeking safety from hateful anti-LGBTQ+ persecution in another state.
As we wrap up session, I will be fighting for a budget that, for the third year in a row, includes funding for HIV prevention and treatment, and helps us get to zero new HIV/AIDS diagnoses by 2030. I reject any reduced quality of life for a person living with HIV/AIDS, and want to encourage you to keep fighting and dreaming for those we’ve lost, for our LGBTQ+ youth, and for one another.
Senator Simmons Legislative Updates
Bill Passes Committee to Allow Pharmacists to Sell Hypodermic Needles or Syringes
House Bill 2589 passed the Public Health Committee on April 30th with a 7-0 vote. This bill originated in the House with Rep. Cassidy, and I am proud to carry it in the Senate. HB2589 would allow pharmacists, using their professional and clinical judgement, to sell up to 100 sterile hypodermic needles or syringes to an individual who is at least 18 years old. Additionally, HB2589 establishes that pharmacists are required to sell sterile hypodermic syringes or needles to any qualifying individual who needs them to properly administer their medication. By opening up access to sterile hypodermic syringes at pharmacies, people who need them for their medication will be able to easily obtain syringes.
Wastewater Reuse Bill Passes Committee
We live in a world where we need to rethink how we use every drop of water, which is why I am proud to have passed HB2391 through the Senate Environment and Conservation Committee earlier this month, which will allow the use of treated municipal wastewater for industrial purposes. Utilizing treated wastewater reflects our commitment to sustainable resource management. Recycling treated wastewater is a smart, forward-thinking way to conserve resources and protect our environment!
Bike Trail Signage Bill Passes Senate Committee
House Bill 2675 passed the Senate Transportation Committee on April 30th with a 18-0 vote. HB2675 requires local government and municipality-owned bicycle trails to contain warning markers (in addition to signage) that alert cyclists to known emergencies or hazards. Moreover, if a road/trail crossing is already controlled by a stop light or stop sign, additional signage is not required.
HB2675 is a follow-up bill to my Senate Bill 1710 that was signed into law in 2023. The original bill requires permanent warning signs to be installed along bike paths that cross over roads, alerting pedestrians and cyclists of a vehicle crossing at least 150 feet before the crossing.
Senator Simmons’ Springfield Updates
Constituent and Stakeholder Highlights
Caption: Senator Simmons in his Springfield office with ONE Northside as they advocate for violence prevention programming and resources, housing, and healthcare.
I want to take time and space to thank all of the constituents and stakeholders who have coordinated coming to Springfield to advocate for their missions. When in Springfield, my days are packed with session, caucus, committee hearings, and events - and it is always great to connect with folks in between these commitments. Highlighted in this section are just a few of the groups and organizations who have visited recently. I want to emphasize that mobilizing around legislative priorities, and coming to Springfield is incredibly powerful and effective, and if you haven’t visited yourself I encourage you to come down and witness your 7th District State Senator in action!
Caption: Senator Simmons listens to constituents with The People’s Lobby in the hallway of the Stratton building in Springfield.
Caption: Senator Simmons with champions for quality afterschool programming from ACT Now in Springfield.
Caption: Senator Simmons meets with the Science Policy Outreach Taskforce in his Springfield office.
Caption: Senator Simmons on the floor speaking in support of HB1375, which would create a student teaching stipend program.
Caption: Senator Simmons meets with CTA, Metra, and PACE leadership teams in Springfield.
Caption: Senator Simmons meets Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson and former Senator Jackie Collins in Springfield at the Governor’s Mansion.
Caption: As Co-Chair of the newly launched bicameral Creative Caucus, Senator Simmons celebrates the Illinois Arts Council 60th Anniversary.
Caption: Senator Simmons takes time to discuss sensible gun safety legislation with members of Moms Demand Action from the 7th District.
Illinois Bike & Walk Summit
Caption: Senator Simmons with bike and pedestrian advocates on “Bike & Walk Advocacy Day” in Springfield.
It was wonderful to welcome familiar faces, including Alderman Daniel LaSpata and constituent Randy Neufeld, to Springfield with fellow advocates for Bike & Walk Advocacy Day last week! The Northside is home to amazing pedestrian plazas and greenways, featuring residential streets that have been transformed into green spaces. As we continue discussion at the State level on improving transit systems, I continue to entertain and strongly advocate for innovative ideas to create more green spaces that bring neighbors together and create better multi-modal connectivity throughout the 7th District.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day
Caption: Senator Simmons participates in an LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day press conference.
It was wonderful to welcome 7th District LGBTQ+ organizations and allies to Springfield for LBGTQ+ Advocacy Day last week. We have a lot of work to do to fight repressive policies but the day was cathartic and moving. I am more determined than ever to protect our community and demand a future where Illinois continues to be a safe haven for those seeking LGBTQ+ refuge from other states, where young people know that their future is healthy and bright, and where no one accepts reduced health outcomes. I am continually working on legislation to this end, and thank you to everyone who is co-governing with me on these issues. If you would like to learn more about how you can support, please reach out to my office!
ICIRR Rally
Caption: Senator Simmons supporting ICIRR at a rally supporting welcoming immigration policy for all in Illinois.
Last week in Springfield, I participated in a powerful ICIRR rally to send a message to Washington: Illinois welcomes ALL people! On a day where the federal administration showed up in Springfield to attack immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, and folx at the intersection of these identities, we as leaders stood firm to remind everyone that Illinois is a welcoming state and we will NOT be divided.
District Updates and Upcoming Events
CTA North Park Garage Visit
Caption: Senator Simmons with CTA Bus Operator, Sherman, at the North Park Garage at 3112 W. Foster Avenue.
Caption: At the CTA North Park Garage, Senator Simmons holds an impromptu discussion with bus operators to hear what improvements they would like to see with CTA buses and operations.
It was truly a highlight of my month to be able to make good on an invite from local CTA bus operator, Sherman, to come visit the CTA North Park Garage. It was AMAZING to hold a spur of the moment discussion with bus operators, where I heard firsthand that their top concerns as they do their daily work is safety and cleanliness on buses and trains. We were joined by CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen, and as discussions in Springfield are ongoing regarding improvements for our public transit systems, I remain dedicated to making sure the concerns of our bus and train operators inform the fight for transit reform this spring!
Howard Evanston Community Center Job Fair
Caption: Gabby Tewodros, Operations and Outreach Coordinator, helps connect a constituent to state resources at the Howard Evanston Community Center and Metropolitan Family Services Job Fair on April 16.
While I was in Springfield, my district staff supported and participated in the Howard Evanston Community Center and Metropolitan Family Services Job Fair on Wednesday, April 16. Over 300 people attended, and 10 companies and organizations, including the CTA, Pace, Metra, S&C Electric, Aramark, the American Job Center, Apna Ghar, Swedish Endeavor Hospital, Misericordia, and Trilogy provided applications and work opportunities on-site. It was amazing to see people fill out applications and take the next step in securing employment that will provide stable, meaningful employment for them and their families. Thank you to everyone who came and provided job opportunities for our community!
40th Ward Shred Event: The Grateful Shred
Caption: Connor, Manager of Constituent Services, with Alderman Vasquez, Commissioner Degnen, and volunteers at the 40th Ward Shred Event.
Connor, Manager of Constituent Service in my district office, joined Alderman Vasquez and dozens of volunteers for the 40th Ward’s latest Shred Event, the Grateful Shred. Hundreds of cars came through with paper to shred, food and medical supplies to donate, and prescription drugs to safely dispose of. Thank you to Alderman Vasquez for hosting this very useful event and inviting our staff along to assist!
Senator Simmons in the News
- Senate Democrats outline proposals to enhance mental health care accessibility by Illinois Senate Democrats
- Illinois bill would protect people in mental or behavioral health treatment by KWQC 6
- LGBTQ+ leaders mark TDOV with a call for queer Chicagoans to take action by Windy City Times
- Simmons bills would ease restrictions on cyclists in Illinois by Illinois Senate Democrats
- Illinois legislators consider bills expanding bicyclists' rights, liability protections by Daily Herald
- IL Democratic plan could allow cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs by WAND News
- AIDS Foundation Chicago Raises $770K at AFC40 Gala Celebrating 40 Years of Impact by Chicago Defender
- AIDS Foundation Chicago raises $770,000 at 40th anniversary gala by Crain’s Chicago Business
- AFC celebrates 40 years of service with 2025 gala by Windy City Times
- Simmons Advances Legislation to Require Municipal Contract Transparency by Illinois Senate Democrats
- Simmons bill to remove barriers to housing passes Senate by Illinois Senate Democrats
- Illinois Bill Advances to Require Lap/Shoulder Seatbelts on New School Buses by School Transportation News
- Illinois state legislature focuses on affordability concerns as some counties threaten secession by The Daily Northwestern
- Simmons: New PrEP HIV prevention initiative supports healthy communities by Illinois Senate Democrats
- IL Senate committee approves bill expanding access to sterile hypodermic syringes, needles by WAND News
- Legislation seeks to rein in rental 'junk fees' in Illinois
Community News & Events
Community Development Grants - Small and Medium
Receive up to $250,000 (small) or $5 million (medium) for construction or renovation costs for your business. Grants support local, commercial, and light manufacturing projects. Full information and application here. Applications Open Until 11:59PM August 15, 2025.
Eligibility:
- Proposed projects must be revenue-generating
- Projects must comprise the following uses
- Commercial (office, retail)
- Light industrial
- Mixed-use residential (residential costs cannot exceed 25% of the total grant amount and must be part of a larger building improvement, such as HVAC/plumbing)
- Priority is given to projects with strong local impacts that leverage local talents, capacities and institutions and contribute to community vitality.
Note that this is a reimbursement grant. Eligible costs include pre-development, new construction and renovations. Applications are open to business owners, property owners, community developers, and entrepreneurs. Apply now.
Uptown Action Trash Pickups
Uptown Action is back hosting trash pickups in 2025! Join Uptown neighbors to pick up trash and keep the neighborhood clean on the last Saturday of each month at 10am. Equipment is provided, and all are welcome to join. The next pickup is set for Saturday, May 31st at 10:00am. Sign up via their website linked here, or you can email
Spring Employment Expo 2025
The Illinois Department of Children & Family Services is excited to invite you to the Spring Employment Expo 2025, taking place on Thursday, May 15, 2025! Whether you're looking to launch your career, make a change, or explore new opportunities, this job fair is your chance to connect with top employers from a variety of industries.
At the expo, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Meet recruiters and hiring managers face-to-face!
- Receive information on how to apply for full-time, part-time, and internship positions
- Network with professionals, other job seekers and community resources
- Take professional headshots
The job fair takes place on Thursday, May 15th from 10am-2pm at Smith Park Field House (2526 W Grand). It is a free event open to all job seekers! Register with the link here.
HAIBAYÔ - Activities for 5th-8th Grade Students in Uptown!
Where: HAIBAYO – 1132 W Argyle St, Chicago, IL 60640
Dates & Times:
- Tuesdays & Thursdays: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Mondays & Wednesdays: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Workshops & Schedule:
- Comic Book Illustration – Learn to tell stories through illustration and comic creation for Pocket Con & Optimist Comics. Tuesdays & Thursdays | March 18 – April 24, 2025
- Poetry Writing – Develop storytelling skills and submit work to the 9th Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Youth Poetry Awards.
Mondays & Wednesdays | April 7 – May 14, 2025 - Music Production – Explore music production, DJing, beat making, audio recording, with opportunities to perform at Stomping Grounds Open Stage.
Tuesdays & Thursdays | April 29 – June 5, 2025
Registration & Consent:
To enroll, parents/guardians must complete the registration form and sign the consent form.
Online Registration Form: Click here to register!
Resources
Senator Simmons: Call for Summer Volunteers!
The summer season is almost here which means many opportunities to volunteer at events or in my district office! Contact my Operations and Outreach Coordinator, Gabby Tewodros, at 773-769-1717,
Community Needs Assessment Survey - Howard & Evanston Community Center
Howard & Evanston Community Center is conducting a community needs survey to better understand the priorities and challenges facing our neighbors in Evanston, Rogers Park, West Ridge, and surrounding communities. The survey takes just a few minutes to complete, and participants can opt in to a raffle for a gift card as a thank-you incentive. The online survey is available here: Community Needs Assessment Survey. It can be completed in English or nine other languages.
Free Legal Help for Evictions, Unpaid Debts, Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
There is help available if you are a renter facing eviction, homeowner facing foreclosure, or an individual facing unpaid debt collection. Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt is a free countywide program available to all Cook County residents, regardless of income and immigration status. Visit their website linked here for more information. You can also call CCLAHD directly. The Eviction and Consumer Debt Helpline is 855-956-5763. The Mortgage Foreclosure Helpline is 855-452-2637.
REAL ID Supercenter Now Open in the Loop!
If you are having trouble securing a Real ID appointment, don’t worry! Instead, head down to the new REAL ID Supercenter at 191 N. Clark Street in the Loop. This center is walk-in only, so no appointment is necessary. It is open Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00 pm. If you are unsure if you need a REAL ID, visit the portal linked here to find out.
Summer Jobs with the IL Secretary of State
Apply for summer jobs with the Illinois Secretary of State linked here.
Equality Illinois LGBTQ+ Resource Guide
Know Your Rights/Conozca sus Derechos
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! If you ever want to reach out to our office, please call us at 773-769-1717, and we will respond promptly. We can also be reached at
