SPRINGFIELD – After Illinois legislators passed historic health care reform legislation, House Bill 5395, State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“Access to health care is a fundamental right, and costs should never be the reason people forgo care. I've heard too many stories from people in my community who struggle to see a doctor or get the treatment they need because of obstacles like a lack of available doctors who accept their insurance or arbitrarily high insurance costs leaving them with low coverage or no insurance for their health emergencies. These barriers lead to untreated medical conditions and premature death for too many of our family members, neighbors and friends.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons advanced an important measure that honors the need for constituents to know more about who represents them in Springfield.

“In 2021, I became the first openly LGBTQ+ person sworn into the Illinois Senate,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “It’s important for the district I represent to know that for the first time in the 200-year history of Illinois, they are represented by an LGBTQ+ state senator. I am thrilled to see this bill finally advance.”

Simmons’ measure, Senate Bill 863, modernizes printing rules governing bulk mail sent to constituents to allow General Assembly members to list biographical information. This legislation extends current practices on the General Assembly website to print mail.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to prioritize safety and efficiency on Illinois roadways, State Senator Mike Simmons has secured passage of another bill that promotes seamless collaboration between the Illinois Department of Transportation and local jurisdictions in modifying roadways in Chicago and across the state to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists and decrease motorists crashes.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons is leading a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering caregivers to provide culturally competent haircare for youth in care to promote healthy hair and self-confidence in our communities.

“Hair plays a crucial role in young people's lives,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This bill not only boosts their self-esteem but also fosters a sense of belonging and confidence that can positively influence all aspects of their lives.”