Dear Friend,
The legislative session is well underway, and last week I secured passage of three equity-focused bills out of the Senate! All three came directly from our People’s Legislative Councils, or from constituent phone calls and meetings. I am so proud that we consistently lift up the voices of residents of the 7th District, and we will continue to take a participatory approach to introducing and passing legislation. Your eagerness to participate and communicate with our district office has made it clear that residents' voices matter.
I would like to reiterate that our office is here to help. We are a non-judgment, welcoming place where 7th District residents are encouraged to contact us to request constituent services or to voice their opinions about legislative issues.
The Senate will reconvene next week. I will continue asking thoughtful questions in legislative committees, researching each bill under review, and working to ensure we produce quality and equitable legislation.
Continue reading for information on COVID-19 resources, my upcoming community town hall, and other community resources you or those you love may need.
Legislative Updates
Bill to remove the word “alien” in reference to immigrants
The first bill I passed this session was Senate Bill 3865. This bill removes the use of the word "alien" in Illinois statutes in reference to people with mixed statuses and related legal contexts. The bill idea came directly from staff and district residents who shared concerns about the impact of this language on dignity and access to services.
Bill to increase access to mental health support for youth
I am proud my bill SB 4028 passed the Senate. It requires schools to include instruction on how and where students can access mental health resources and establishes a Student Mental Health Council made up of youth and community organizations to guide future policy recommendations.
Bill to improve quality of life for seniors
My third bill, Senate Bill 702, creates a Senior Housing Residents’ Advisory Council to improve communication between seniors and state agencies and strengthen services and outreach for older adults across Illinois.
I am proud that nearly every bill idea came directly from our people’s legislative councils or constituents in the 7th District.
Sen. Simmons in the news
- ABC7 interview on ending Black hair discrimination with community advocates
- Feature: Senator Simmons on leadership and representation in Illinois politics
- Press release: Youth mental health support legislation passes Senate
- Coverage of bill removing “alien” terminology from state law
COVID-19 Updates & Resources
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COVID-19 mandates have been lifted statewide and in Chicago. Masking remains optional, and we encourage residents to make the decision that feels safest for them. Our office continues to request masks during in-person visits for staff safety.
- View COVID-19 testing locations
- Order free at-home COVID-19 tests
- Find CPS vaccination sites for students
- Find vaccination sites in the 7th District
Community Event
Single Parents Town Hall is March 15th
Register to attend our Single Parents Town Hall on Tuesday, March 15 at 6 p.m. We will discuss the Single Parents Bill of Rights and proposed child tax credit legislation. Register for the town hall webinar here.
7th District Candid Photo
This mural in Rogers Park honors Black lives lost to violence and calls for remembrance and accountability.
Constituent Resources
Rogers Park Township Property Tax Appeals
Property tax appeal filing is open from Feb. 14 to March 15. Learn more about the Cook County Board of Review process and online filing options on the Cook County Assessor’s appeal portal.
Housing, Jobs, and Support Resources
- Housing and eviction prevention resources from Lawyers’ Committee for Better Housing
- Search jobs through Illinois Job Link
- Racial equity dialogue and community resources (Illinois DHS)
- City of Chicago racial equity toolkit
Contact Information
Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have questions or would like to share your input on legislative or budget issues. Our office is here to help and provide constituent services.
As always, please call our office at 773-769-1717 if we can assist you.
Follow Senator Simmons for updates:
Sincerely,
Senator Mike Simmons
7th Senate District
