CHICAGO — State Senator Mike Simmons is in Washington, D.C. joining elected officials and community leaders from Illinois and Indiana to highlight the impacts of the American Rescue Plan, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act on communities across Illinois.

“The impact of Biden-Harris policies and programs on Chicago’s far north side have created opportunities and expanded the possibilities for the diverse and resourceful people of the 7th District,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “I am proud of the partnership between Illinois Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration and look forward to continuing efforts to improve the lives of residents across our state.”

The impact of the Biden-Harris Administration in Simmons’ district has been monumental to his efforts in the Senate, inspiring Simmons’ leadership in fighting for passage of an Illinois state-level permanent child tax credit. Building on this state-federal partnership, Simmons’ package of bills recently signed into law accelerates the rollout of electric buses and modernizes transportation infrastructure to improve safety, accessibility and sustainability for residents across Illinois.

Under the administration, Illinois' unemployment rate has dropped to 4.5% with 429,000 jobs created since Biden took office. Simmons has worked hard to ensure his constituents can find meaningful, gainful employment, hosting job fairs for returning citizens and many others to help all residents in the 7th District live dignified lives in a fair and just economy.

Additionally, Simmons secured $2.5 million in funds to provide one-time $10,000 grants to small businesses across his Senate district last year through the 7th District Small Business Restoration Grant – a direct response to the extraordinary challenges small business owners across the area face from inflation, corporate competition, rent increases, and labor and inventory shortages.

“I pride myself in being approachable and centering everyday people of the 7th District in my legislative work,” said Simmons. “When residents bring their concerns to me, I want to make sure they feel heard and I take action to address their issues. Through continued partnership with the Biden-Harris Administration, we will continue strengthening our economy here in the 7th District.”