State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) saw four measures passed out of the Illinois Senate on Friday, including one resolution that was adopted.
 
“I am pleased with what I was able to accomplish today with passing my four measures,” Hunter said. “I am appreciative of my colleagues’ consideration and support of this legislation, and am hopeful we will see similar outcomes in the House.”
 
The measures passed Friday are:
 
SB 62 adapts current state mental health law regarding the definition of what constitutes a “clinical psychologist” in Illinois.
 
“Having a background in counseling,” Hunter said, “I know firsthand the importance of clearly defining the responsibilities of a licensed counselor and making sure that our mental health care professionals and their practices are on par.”

 
 
SB 63 alters the composition of the State Rehabilitation Council to comply with federal rules. The measure also requires that the chairperson and a majority of the council members must be people with disabilities.
 
“As chairperson of the Human Services committee and someone who has consistently fought for justice and equality,” Hunter said, “I maintain SB 63 could help us better serve the needs of disabled and all Illinois citizens.”
 
SB 1213 sets forth “clean-up” language and further clarifies the responsibilities of the Dept. of Juvenile Justice. The Dept. of Juvenile Justice was formed in July of 2006 in order to better serve Illinois youth in need of correction.
“It’s high time we did right by our kids and cleaned up our legislation regarding their care and discipline,” Hunter said. “We’re on our way to achieving this with the passage of SB 1213.”
 
SJR 1 extends the reporting period for the Illinois Great Migration Centennial Commission until Dec. 31, 2014. The Great Migration Centennial will be celebrated from January to December 2016 to encourage a deeper knowledge and understanding of the mass migration of African Americans from Southern to Northern U.S. cities throughout the early and mid 20th Century.
 
“I am glad this passed,” Hunter said, “so now, as commission chair, I can ensure we make this centennial celebration as momentous as this essential part of history we’re honoring.”
SJR 1 stands adopted, and SB 62, 63, and 1213 now move to the Illinois House.