CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons hosted a Transportation and Budget Town Hall on Wednesday for community members and residents with questions and feedback regarding the state’s budget and the future of transportation in Illinois.

“It was a tough session in the legislature with many issues to address and a tight budget. Nonetheless, I am proud of the many bills we passed, and the progress we have made in addressing the transit fiscal cliff and junk fees for renters,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Regarding transit, Illinois faces a once in a lifetime opportunity to reform and fund our statewise transit systems, and improve reliability, accessiblity, and safety on our buses and trains,” said Simmons (D-Chicago).

During the town hall, Simmons highlighted key investments within the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget, including a $1 million increase in funding for violence prevention programs in the 7th District, $22.5 million for Parent Mentors and Ladders of Opporunity, and increased funding for safety net hospitals in the 7th District just to name a few.

Simmons spent specific time during the town hall to discuss and answer questions on House Bill 3438, a transit package that includes comprehensive reform of the transit systems while avoiding 40% cuts to service and preventing 3,000 layoff notices from being sent to frontline transit workers. Simmons voted in favor of House Bill 3438, which passed the Senate 32-22 and now awaits further action in the House.

“There is still work to be done on transit, and I am continuing to advocate vigorously for an immediate return to Springfield to get the work done,” said Simmons. “I encourage everyone affected by transit to make your voice heard and actively engage!”

For more information on Senator Simmons’ legislation and events, visit www.SenatorMikeSimmons.com.

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