SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons passed legislation out of the Senate Public Health Committee on Tuesday that would create a Health Outcomes Review Board to identify and tackle healthcare disparities.

“The findings of the Health Outcomes Review Board will be vital in developing and targeting policy solutions that can improve health outcomes, improve the quality of life for many, reduce health care costs and save lives,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “We don’t have to accept dismal health outcomes. It’s important to ensure state agencies and health care providers can focus where attention is needed. Identifying care gaps will help us to build a more effective and humane health care system. Whether it’s the unacceptable life expectancy gap for African-American and Latine communities, disparities in quality of health insurance coverage for low-income households, or inadequate access to follow up and specialty care for LGBTQ+ communities, the board will help identify those gaps and recommend improvements."

SPRINGFIELD – In response to a horrific November 2023 incident where a Chicago Transit Authority Yellow Line train collided with a snowplow leaving dozens injured, State Senator Mike Simmons advanced legislation to implement annual reports containing safety recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board to prevent similar accidents.

“Passenger rail travel is an essential mode of transportation for Chicago residents,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “I am committed to making sure our commuter trains are safe by bringing systems up-to-date on a consistent basis, across the board.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons advanced legislation to increase access to affordable housing for more youth experiencing homelessness who may be struggling with mental health or substance abuse.

“The intersectionality of recurring substance use, mental health struggles and access to affordable housing is very real,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Providing support services to at-risk adolescents as young as age 18 is much needed.”

The Housing is Recovery pilot program offers affordable housing using a bridge rental subsidy combined with access to recovery support services or treatment for individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse.

From Left to Right: Maria Drell, Senator Mike Simmons, Kahinde Longmire, Trez Pugh, Gabby Tewodros, KJ Whitehead

CHICAGO – State Senator Mike Simmons hosted his inaugural “In Conversation with Senator Mike Simmons” with Black leaders in honor of Black History Month:

“In honor of Black History Month, I hosted several Black leaders living and working in the 7th District for a discussion regarding what Black identity and excellence means in 2024 and beyond,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “As the first Black person to represent the 7th District on Chicago’s north side, I feel a responsibility to reflect with the community on what that means for the many communities I represent.”