Hunter, Harper respond to PepsiCo plant closure

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) and State Representative Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) issued the following joint statement after the closure of PepsiCo’s Back of the Yards plant:

“On Monday, Oct. 28, workers at the PepsiCo plant on 51st Street in Back of the Yards were blindsided by the company’s abrupt decision to shutter the facility and immediately lay off employees — some of whom had worked there for 45 years, were nearing a retirement or are sole providers for families with children and people with disabilities.

“Illinois law requires that both workers and state and local governments be given 60 days’ notice of plant closings or mass layoffs. PepsiCo claims it complied with applicable legal requirements, but how can that be the case if the workers, state and city had no advance warning?

“To the workers: We’re sorry this is happening to you, but you are not alone. We see you, and so does your government. We will be looking into this, and if laws were violated, we will push for the applicable remedies to be applied.”

Affected workers in need of assistance can contact Senator Hunter’s office at 312-949-1908 or Representative Harper’s office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Hunter to host Mobile DMV on Oct. 28

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter is partnering with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and local elected officials for a Mobile DMV event on Oct. 28, offering a convenient, one-stop location for driver’s license renewals, license plate stickers and more.

“This event offers flexibility to residents who may not be able to visit one of the state’s facilities during service hours,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I encourage community members to take advantage of these services — especially those wanting to secure a REAL ID before the May 2025 deadline.”

The Mobile DMV event will be held Monday, Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dawson Technical Institute, 3901 S. State St. Those interested in attending must pre-register online for an appointment.

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Hunter announces over $2.6 million to support library, literacy programs

CHICAGO — Libraries and literacy programs within the 3rd District will receive more than $2.6 million in combined state grants, thanks to the support of State Senator Mattie Hunter.

“Our library system and local literacy programs are valuable community resources,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This funding will help expand these essential services, unlocking opportunities for personal and economic growth.”

The latest round of funding from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias includes nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million to support literacy programs throughout the state.

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Hunter announces funding for local workforce training initiatives

CHICAGO — With the support of State Senator Mattie Hunter, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $15 million in funding for the Job Training and Economic Development program, including more than $2 million awarded to five organizations within the 3rd Senate District.

“For many people, a workforce training program is the key to landing a stable job and achieving financial stability,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “From helping people find jobs, to offering the education and support needed to maintain employment, these organizations play a vital role in our community.”

The Job Training and Economic Development program provides workforce training and wraparound services to help bolster equitable workforce recovery for Illinoisans struggling to gain meaningful employment. Funds from this program aim to address the economic impacts experienced by employers and individuals who are underemployed, unemployed or underrepresented who have one or more barriers to employment that are identified as risk factors.

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