General Updates from Senator Mike Simmons
Dear Neighbor,
I am happy to announce that work on my district office is now complete! We made some changes that I believe will make the space even more welcoming for constituents, including an outside space for folks to meet and enjoy the warm weather. Please stop by and say hello soon. We are here for you.
In other updates, I tested positive for COVID-19 last week and had to quarantine and spend a few days recovering. I want to encourage everyone to keep healthy in the weeks ahead, and remember to follow health department guidelines if you feel ill or think you may have had a recent exposure. Free testing is available at many local stores and pharmacies. As always, feel free to call my office if you need help finding healthcare or lack a primary health care home. We will help guide you.
On another topic, I have great news: I passed a youth mental health bill last year, Senate Bill 4028 that creates the first statewide Student Mental Health Council. I encourage young people aged 14–25 to apply for the council before the Sept. 22 deadline.
A handful more of my bills were signed into law recently. Read on for details on those as well as key community updates and new resources.
Finally, a huge THANK YOU to our summer interns Ochii, Justin, and Byron who are wrapping up their internships soon.
Sincerely,
Mike Simmons
State Senator | 7th District
Legislative Updates
Caption: Senator Mike Simmons led passage of three bills signed into law this July.
This month, several bills I authored and supported were signed into law, including Senate Bill 1710 and Senate Bill 2014.
Additionally, I helped advance multiple House Bills through the Senate, including House Bill 2131, House Bill 1342, House Bill 2297, and House Bill 3631.
Bike and pedestrian safety improvements: Senate Bill 2014 improves coordination of bike and pedestrian safety upgrades during state road maintenance projects.
Warning signs on bike trails: Senate Bill 1710 adds advance warning signage near bike crossings to improve safety.
Public transportation improvements: House Bill 1342 expands transit accessibility, youth programs, and service improvements.
Zero Traffic Fatalities Task Force: House Bill 2131 creates a task force to reduce traffic fatalities statewide.
Inclusive workforce policy: House Bill 2297 improves inclusion tracking for state workforce diversity.
Pharmacy protections: House Bill 3631 protects pharmacists who report legal violations.
Senator Mike Simmons In the News
- Crain’s Chicago Business coverage on rent control policy discussions
- State Journal-Register reporting on Illinois prison labor system
- The Daily Line coverage of prisoner voting rights legislation
- Chicago Tribune reporting on transit accessibility for seniors and disabled riders
Senator Mike Simmons’ Updates
Portrait by Megan Williamson – “ZOOM”
Caption: Portrait of Senator Mike Simmons, painted by Megan Williamson for her solo exhibit “Zoom.”
I am honored to be featured in artist Megan Williamson’s solo exhibit “Zoom,” on display at the Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute, Indiana.
Illinois Launches the First Statewide Student Mental Health Council
Senate Bill 4028 created a statewide Student Mental Health Council to elevate youth voices in mental health policy.
Applications are now open for the Illinois Children’s Mental Health Partnership Youth Council.
