SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) advanced a measure from the Senate Pensions Committee on Wednesday to address the teacher shortage in Chicago Public Schools.

“This teacher shortage is affecting schools nationally as well as in our state,” Hunter said. “We must do everything we can to ensure qualified teachers are in the classrooms so that our children can get the education they deserve.”

SPRINGFIELD – After the death of Deidre Silas, a caseworker for the Department of Child and Family Services, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) introduced legislation to increase protections for child protection workers.

“Deidre’s death was a devastating loss, and unfortunately cases like hers are not unique,” Hunter said. “Caseworkers entering situations that could lead to violence must have enhanced protections.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s State of the State address:

“I am pleased that the governor’s plan is leaving room for additional COVID-19 relief, as we are entering the third year of the pandemic. We have done a lot of work to create equity in the health care sector, and I am ready to see the execution of those initiatives. I am also excited for further funding in our state’s health care and human services programs.

“I am glad to see funding toward business and developmental recovery are reflected in the governor’s plan. Small businesses will need continued support, which in turn will benefit our communities as a whole.

“I’m confident this proposal points us in the right direction as the state continues to recuperate from COVID-19 and move forward towards equity across social programs.”

CHICAGO – Hundreds of South Side Chicago businesses have been awarded more than $5 million in funding from the Back to Business Program to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to efforts from State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).

“I am pleased so many businesses are receiving a boost to help them flourish through the ongoing pandemic,” Hunter said. “Over 100 businesses in the 3rd District have been awarded Back to Business grants, including coffee shops like Sip and Savor, which brings the community together one beverage at a time.”