Narcan Opioid Overdose Spray available in Walgreens

“I commend Walgreens for their efforts to tackle this disastrous opioid epidemic in not only the state but the entire country. Storing Narcan in store will make the drug easily accessible for families and caregivers to help their loved ones in the time of crisis. This epidemic has gone on for too long and this is a step in the right direction.“The people who are struggling with opioid abuse and oaddiction do not need punishment – they need our help.”

Hunter: Let’s put kids on a path to success, not road to destruction

CHICAGO – According to a statement provided by Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emmanuel, shootings in Englewood have dropped 43 percent this year. There have been 130 fewer shootings in the community than this time last year. State Senator Mattie Hunter released the following statement:

“Since the summer, it has been my goal to create safe zones for children and families within the Greater Chicago area. I know what it’s like first-hand to lose a family member to gun violence, and my heart aches for families that experience similar trauma.

The best way to keep youth off the streets and out of trouble is to engage them in activities and programs that encourage community involvement and life skills. This will put our youth on the path to success rather than roads to destruction.

While we are moving in a positive direction, it is my hope to strengthen my efforts by building a partnership with the Chicago Police Department to secure safety in and around the community in order to decrease devastating statistics.”

Illinois Legislative Senate Black Caucus: Congress needs to act on CHIP

With the uncertainty of affordable healthcare looming, as of yesterday, Congress allowed the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provided low-cost health insurance to nine million children, to expire. The program is credited with keeping more than 300,000 Illinois children healthy.

Members of the Illinois Legislative Senate Black Caucus are voicing displeasure and pushing Congress to act before it’s too late. Assistant Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood), who also chairs the joint Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, delivered a clear message: “I can’t believe Congress let this expire. The Children’s Health Insurance Program is perhaps one of the most effective bipartisan success stories to come out of Washington in recent years. The program needs to be renewed now. I suggest they act swiftly.”

The caucus has stayed busy this summer continuing to focus on social justice for our most vulnerable populations. The caucus was instrumental in ensuring the education funding reform legislation was passed, in addition to delivering veto override votes for the first budget the state has seen in years.

“It’s simply irresponsible for our leaders on Capitol Hill to allow CHIP to expire. The health of our children is crucial not only to their success in the classroom, but to their overall well-being. I urge Congress to take the necessary steps to provide the federal funding for this program,” said Assistant Majority Leader Donne Trotter, (D-Chicago).

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New Hunter law identifies food deserts

 In an effort to provide information about health issues and access to quality food options, House Bill 3157, backed by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) has become law.

“This lack of access can usually be found in underprivileged areas,” said Hunter. “Most families in food deserts also live without a car, strictly relying on public transportation to commute. I believe everyone, regardless of location, should have access to quality produce. It’s important to build partnerships among local government and businesses to tackle this growing problem.”

House Bill 3157 will require the Department of Public Health to provide the General Assembly with an annual report that identifies the locations of food deserts, along with analysis on the health impacts in such locations.

A food desert is defined as a location with a lack of grocery stores, farmers' markets, or healthy food providers, thus leading local residents to rely on unhealthier food options.

The legislation becomes effective June 1, 2018.