SPRINGFIELD — As many communities in Illinois still grapple with limited access to quality, healthy food, State Senator Mattie Hunter is sponsoring a measure aimed at looking into the effectiveness of efforts to reduce food deserts.

“Access to quality and fresh food is a basic right that each person in our community deserves,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Although the state has taken steps to address these inequities, it is imperative that we continue to reflect on the initiatives aimed at addressing this issue and learn more about what can be done in the future.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement after the Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget:

“Through a tough fiscal year, this budget upholds our commitment to the hardworking families and residents in our community. We are continuing to invest in our health care systems and services, prioritizing education from kindergarten to college and ensuring our senior residents can live comfortably.

SPRINGFIELD — To further ensure patients seeking care have a chance to designate an emergency contact, State Senator Mattie Hunter is spearheading a measure to require hospitals to provide an opportunity to gather contact information.

“When someone goes to a hospital, their first worry is not when they should tell the staff who to contact in case of emergency — it’s to receive care and alleviate their symptoms,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we have procedures in place to ensure the hospital can gather the information they need without placing the burden on the patient to remember to provide it.”

National Minority Health Month serves as a time to raise awareness about the importance of addressing health care disparities and access gaps that continue to limit a range of critical care services for minority populations. This year’s theme, “Health Unlocked: Access, Alignment, Action,” recognizes the evolving issues in health care nationally and urges us to take steps to protect our communities.

Illinois has worked to address health care disparities and access gaps in its communities through the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’s Health and Human Services Pillar, which focused on creating a more equitable and inclusive health care system in the state.