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.”

SPRINGFIELD – Acknowledging that access to clean drinking water is often taken for granted, State Senator Mike Simmons advanced legislation to enhance and protect the safety of public drinking water statewide.

“Clean drinking water is a human right, and we need to ensure Illinois’s drinking water is safe and free of harmful chemicals,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “The presence of these contaminants requires renewed attention and urgent action.”

Simmons' proactive measure comes in response to the growing recognition of environmental pollutants and their potential health effects. Senate Bill 727 preemptively codifies at the state level the new federal rules issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency on April 10th, 2024 that will set maximum contaminant levels on six Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (also known as PFAs).