Hunter issues statement on Senator Feinstein’s passing

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to the passing of U.S. Senator Diane Feinstein:

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Senator Diane Feinstein. Her unwavering commitment to addressing critical issues such as women's advancement and gun control – which she advocated for as a U.S. Senator and as San Francisco's mayor – set a remarkable example for all of us in public service.

"Having met Senator Feinstein in Washington, D.C. years ago, I was inspired by her leadership and dedication. Her legacy will continue as we carry on this important work."

Hunter commends Biden-⁠Harris Administration on first-ever Medicare price negotiations

CHICAGO — In recognition of the Biden administration unveiling the first 10 prescription drugs that will be subject to price negotiations with Medicare, State Senator Mattie Hunter released the following statement:

“Access to low cost prescription drugs has always been a priority of mine. For far too long, people have had to pay far too much for prescription drugs.

“I have led several initiatives in the Illinois State Senate protecting access to low cost prescription drugs that have been the first of their kind signed into law in Illinois. I am thrilled to see us deliver on that promise yet again on an even larger scale by implementing a nationwide historic law to lower health care and prescription drug costs for all people across the nation.

“This plan grows our economy from the middle out, prioritizing the American people – not big pharmaceutical companies. We will continue fighting for all people until the struggle to access vital prescriptions for life-threatening illnesses due to excessive costs is over.”

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Hunter announces over $2.6 million in library, literacy grants

CHICAGO — With strong support from State Senator Mattie Hunter, libraries and literacy programs within the 3rd Senate District will receive more than $2.6 million in combined state grants.

“Literacy programs equip adults with the tools they need to be successful and open the doors to a world of possibilities,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This funding will empower local literacy programs and Chicago libraries to continue to provide and expand services, benefiting learners of all ages.”

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office awarded $2,573,253 in System Area and Per Capita Grants to the Chicago Public Library System. Per capita grants help fund library expenses, such as books and learning materials, personnel, equipment, access to digital materials and new technology.

To support literacy efforts, Literacy Volunteers of Illinois will receive $53,800 to train volunteers who tutor adults in reading, math, writing and language skills. The Tolton Center at De La Salle Institute will receive $50,000 to enhance family literacy programs.

More information about statewide library grants can be found on the Secretary of State’s website.

Hunter: Chicago Public Schools to receive $23 million in evidence-based funding

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter announced that the Chicago Public Schools district will receive over $23 million in additional funding to help address the financial challenges of recent years.

“Every child deserves a quality education with access to libraries, counselors and support,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “With evidence-based funding, we are taking a crucial step toward closing the education gap, ensuring all students have a fair shot at reaching their full potential.”

The funding comes from the 2017 Illinois Senate Democrat-backed evidence-based funding formula — an overhaul of the way the state funds K-12 education. The law made school funding more equitable by calculating the needs of individual school districts and basing its state revenue on those needs. The formula takes into account a district’s total enrollment, poverty rate and number of special education or English language learners, among other factors.

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