General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
I hope you had a great week so far! I have been back down in Springfield where I am focused on getting bills passed out of committee. It is an energetic time of year! I am particularly proud to share that on Tuesday I passed Senate Bill 3361 out of committee, an extension of the Jett Hawkins Act which I passed into law in January 2022. As a refresher, the Jett Hawkins Act bans school boards, local school councils, charter schools and nonprivate schools from creating hairstyle-based dress code requirements and discriminating against hairstyles historically associated with race or ethnicity. This bill is named for Jett Hawkins, who at just 4 years old, was discriminated against for wearing his hair in a style that is traditionally non-white.
Senate Bill 3361 bill was brought forth and developed in partnership with a constituent, Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, and would require private, nonreligious schools to affirm they will not prohibit religious hairstyles or hair-related religious practices, including facial hair worn pursuant to a student’s or employee’s sincerely held religious beliefs, in order to register with the Illinois State Board of Education. It protects against restricting hairstyles due to religious expression, including hairstyles and facial hair in public schools specific to Jewish faith and tradition, specifically the Orthodox tradition, as a condition of registration or recognition with ISBE or the State. The bill is also broad enough to cover hair styles and hair-related practices of other religious groups. Students and faculty should be able to express themselves as they see fit in all spaces, and I am proud to champion this legislation!
I also held a press conference on Wednesday with Leader Hunter and Senator Collins to champion the need to protect SNAP recipients from fraud - specifically card skimming. If you have a credit or debit card, chances are that card has a chip on it. However, folks on SNAP experience stolen funds too often because their cards are not “chip” enabled. The contract to update SNAP cards is coming up in June, and it is time to save our recipients from tens of millions of dollars in fraud and most importantly, make sure they have access to food!
I have also filed legislation, Senate Bill 3480, the Payday Advance Consumer Protection Act to protect consumers who access wages through Payday Advance Services (often renamed as Earned Wage Access). This bill would not eliminate Payday Advance Services, but would require state level regulation through IDFPR.
As always, thank you to the many advocates and constituents who come to Springfield to share with me priorities and ideas. It is a joy to meet with you in the people’s house. A shout out this week to The Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities!
Caption: Senator Simmons in the Capitol with an advocate from The Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities
In addition to everything happening in Springfield, we have been busy responding to constituent letters, helping folks with Medicaid, connecting folks with social services and housing, attending Black History Month events and 49th Ward “Happy Birthday Chicago” Town Hall.
While I will be back in Springfield next week, I am really looking forward to warmer weather and can’t wait to be back in the district for spring. There are so many amazing events in the community this week, from Sarah’s Circle Winter Walk, the Edgewater Indoor Market, a CityKey Card event and more - be sure to scroll all the way down and check them out.
As always, my team and I are ready to help with your needs - if you or a neighbor need access to food, healthcare, housing - just reach out at 773-769-1717 or
With Gratitude,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Legislative Updates
Senator Simmons Expands Jett Hawkins Act to Protect Religious Hairstyles
Caption: Senator Simmons passed SB3361 out of committee on Tuesday, a bill that would expand on his 2022 Jett Hawkins Act to include protections for religious hairstyles in public schools throughout the state.
On Tuesday, I was proud to pass SB3361 out of committee, a bill that was drafted in partnership with Rabbi Shlomo Soroka on behalf of the Orthodox Jewish community to expand upon my existing 2022 Jett Hawkins Act. SB3361 expands the Jett Hawkins Act and would require private, nonreligious schools to affirm they will not prohibit religious hairstyles or hair-related religious practices, including, but not limited to, uncut hair or sidelocks (known as payot or peyos), or beards, mustaches, or other facial hair, in order to register with the Illinois State Board of Education. I am proud to build upon the Jett Hawkins Act by including protections for hairstyles and facial hair that reflect religious expression and continue supporting inclusion in education across Illinois!
Senator Simmons Holds Press Conference to Champion Protecting SNAP Recipients from Fraud and to Establish Payday Advance Services Regulation
Caption: Senator Simmons and Leader Hunter held a press conference Wednesday to champion legislation he has filed to protect SNAP recipients from fraud as well as regulate payday advance services.
On Wednesday, I held a press conference with Leader Hunter and Senator Collins to fight for legislation that protects SNAP recipients from fraud. I outlined my bill, Senate Bill 3372, which would require the Illinois Department of Human Services to implement the use of chip-enabled cards for electronic benefit systems. Leader Hunter has brought forth Senate Bill 3266, and each endeavor to modernize SNAP cards to prevent fraud.
The way we will do this is to support the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS - who administers SNAP) in modernizing their current use of magnetic strip cards by replacing them with “smart chips cards.” This will drastically reduce EBT fraud and protect vital food benefits for low-income households.
From October 2022 to December 2024, an estimated $21 million in SNAP benefits were stolen from over 38,000 households. $15 million in benefits were stolen in 2024 alone. At a time when the Trump administration has slashed federal support for SNAP, putting more people at risk of going hungry and not being able to feed their families, Illinois needs to take action to protect SNAP from fraud and prevent further hardship!
In this press conference I also highlighted my bill, Senate Bill 3480 which would create the Payday Advance Consumer Protection Act. The measure would regulate businesses that participate in “payday advance services” such as cash advances, early pay services and alternate methods that allow workers to access funds from their paycheck before their official payday. I am dedicated to preventing cycles of debt and protecting vulnerable and low-income consumers who access wages through Payday Advance Services (often renamed as Earned Wage Access) providers prior to their payday, with the potential to incur fees. This bill is not to eliminate Payday Advance Services, but would require state level regulation through IDFPR.
Senator Simmons Sponsors SNAP Response Working Group Bill
In addition to fighting to modernize SNAP cards to protect recipients from fraud, I signed on as a co-sponsor to SB3276/HB5062, which will create a time-bound, sprint working group within the Illinois Commission to End Hunger to shine a light on the harms of SNAP changes in the Federal H.R.1, and ongoing impacts to neighbors and the state of Illinois budget and economy. We must closely monitor the impacts of federal changes to our neighbors, businesses, and economy and this bill seeks to establish a full report, including data and impact, by April 2027.
Senator Simmons in the News
- Simmons Champions Legislation to Protect SNAP Recipients from Fraud and to Establish Payday Advance Services Regulation by Illinois Senate Democrats
- IL lawmakers propose modernized SNAP benefits card to prevent fraud by WAND News
- Lawmakers Pushing For Chipped EBT Cards To Cut Down Fraud by Decatur Radio
- Illinois could prohibit private schools from banning religious hairstyles by WAND News
Senator Simmons District Updates
Celebrating Black History Month at the Levy Senior Center
Caption: Beautiful neighbors at the Levy Senior Center Black History Month Celebration
On Thursday, February 19, the Levy Senior Center hosted a Black History Month celebration honoring the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. The program featured musical tributes, Black history milestones, and a dance performance. My office was proud to be represented at the event, with staff delivering remarks on behalf of the 7th District.
Black History Month is a time to reflect, celebrate, and recommit to the work of equity and justice that so many fought and sacrificed for. I am grateful to the Levy Senior Center for bringing our community together in that spirit, and I look forward to continuing to show up for our seniors across the 7th District!
49th Ward “Happy Birthday Chicago” Town Hall
Caption: Gabby staffs Senator Simmons’ outreach table at the 49th Ward Town Hall at Sullivan High School
On Wednesday, March 4, Alderwoman Maria Hadden hosted the 49th Ward’s first community town hall of 2026 at Sullivan High School Auditorium in Rogers Park. The event brought neighbors together to hear updates from elected officials, connect with community organizations at a resource fair, and celebrate Chicago’s 189th birthday! While I was unable to attend due to a session in Springfield, my office was represented at the event to connect with residents and stay engaged with the priorities of the Rogers Park community. We look forward to the next town hall!
Upcoming Community Events
This Sunday - Sarah’s Circle 34th Annual Winter Walk
This Sunday, March 8, marks International Women’s Day, and is a perfect time to stand in solidarity with the women in our own community. Sarah’s Circle invites you to join them for their annual Winter Walk from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Uplift Community High School. It’s an afternoon dedicated to more than just a walk; you’ll hear from an inspiring guest speaker and walk through the real-life stories of the women Sarah’s Circle supports every day here in Chicago. Come learn about the work being done to end homelessness for women in our city and find out how you can be a part of the solution.To register, visit sarahs-circle.org.
CityKey Card Event — March 9
Alderperson Angela Clay is partnering with the Office of the City Clerk to host a free CityKey event on Monday, March 9, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Clarendon Park Field House (4501 N. Clarendon Ave.). The Chicago CityKey is a government-issued ID available to all Chicago residents. Appointments are required. To schedule, call the 46th Ward office or scan the QR Code of the flyer.
Read Across America Day Event - March 9 at Peirce Elementary School
In honor of Read Across America Day, Secretary of State Giannoulias has announced a major effort to get books into the hands of young readers throughout the 7th District. This initiative includes the distribution of over 2,000 children’s books across various YMCA early childhood and Metropolitan Family Services locations, including Helen C. Peirce Elementary School. To celebrate, volunteer readers will host special reading sessions this Monday, March 9. Sessions for children ages five and under will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by afternoon sessions for kids ages five through twelve from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. We are thrilled to see this investment in our local students and encourage families to take advantage of these wonderful storytelling events.
Free Vaccination Clinic — March 12
As we continue to navigate the tail end of the winter season, staying up to date on your health is vital for our entire community. State Representative Kelly Cassidy’s office is making this easier by hosting a free vaccination clinic in partnership with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Thursday, March 12. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., neighbors can visit at 1507 W. Morse Ave to receive Flu and COVID-19 vaccines and boosters at absolutely no cost. In an effort to make healthcare as accessible as possible, there is no ID or insurance required for these shots, and while walk-ins are more than welcome, you can secure a specific time slot by registering at bit.ly/KellyCassidyVaccine. This is a great opportunity to protect yourself and your neighbors as we look forward to a healthy spring!
Edgewater Indoor Market — March 14
It is hard to believe, but the final Edgewater Indoor Market of the season is almost here! The event takes place on Saturday, March 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Broadway Armory (5917 N. Broadway). The free-entry market features 50+ food vendors, artists, and artisans offering prepared foods, baked goods, local art, gifts, and more. If you’re coming from outside the immediate area, remember that the CTA Red Line’s Thorndale stop is less than a block away. Let’s turn out and support our local small business owners one last time before the outdoor season begins!
Free Tax Preparation at Truman College
Tax season is here, but you don’t have to navigate the paperwork alone. Ladder Up is offering free tax preparation services at Truman College (1145 W. Wilson Ave.) for households earning $40,000 or less annually. This service runs through April 15, 2026, with a variety of hours to fit your schedule: Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., evening hours Monday through Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
No appointment is needed, but the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is highly recommended to arrive early before the doors close for the day. Be sure to bring your photo ID, Social Security or ITIN card, W-2s, and any relevant tax documents. For a full list of what to bring and additional locations, visit ladderup.org/our-services/tax-assistance/ or call (312) 409-1555.
Important Resources
Important SNAP Reminder: Changes Started February 1, 2026
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has some important links and resources to share with you regarding SNAP.
Before the federal budget bill, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) referred to adults ages 18-54 years old, who had no disabilities and no children under 18 living at home. Veterans, youth aging out of foster care, and people who were homeless were exempted from this designation.
The federal budget bill (H.R. 1) changed the definition of ABAWD, dramatically increasing the number of people who must meet or seek an exemption from work requirements. The new definition includes people ages 55-64 years old with no disabilities and people with children at home who are only 14 years or older and does away with the previous exemptions for people who are homeless, Veterans, and youth aging out of foster care.
As a result of new federal policy, on February 1, 2026, ABAWDs who do not meet or who are not exempt from work requirements may only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months in a 3-year period before losing eligibility. In Illinois, the current 3-year period ends December 31, 2026.
That means beginning May 1, 2026, ABAWDs who do not meet or who are not exempt from work requirements could lose benefits.
- At the end of their current enrollment period, SNAP recipients should complete a redetermination application to meet work requirements. SNAP recipients can wait until their current enrollment period ends to meet the work requirements.
- SNAP customers can use the ABE: SNAP Work Requirements screener to see if they are subject to, are meeting, or may be eligible to seek an exemption from work requirements.
- Additionally, partners at the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) have created a toolkit to share information via social media, presentations, and flyers. This is meant to be used before February 1. Find it here: GCFD ‘SNAP Rules are Changing’ Advocacy Toolkit
- IDHS will also continue to provide updates with customers and the general public through a variety of channels, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and their website: snapfederalimpact.illinois.gov
The Resurrection Project (TRP) Immigration Justice - Weekly Know Your Rights Trainings
The Resurrection Project trainings are designed to ensure that immigrants know what to do if they encounter ICE or federal agents — from understanding your rights, protecting family members and assets, to getting legal help. TRP hosts ‘Know Your Rights’ trainings in English on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. and trainings in Spanish on Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. Learn more on their website linked here. You can sign-up for scheduled trainings linked here.
How to Report ICE - DIY Zines
Check out this printable guide on ‘How to Report ICE’ linked here created by New York City-based illustrator Megan Piontkowski. There is a guide specifically for Chicago and a crafting guide included in the Google folder.
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
