SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) supported legislation that would direct state money to cover several outstanding debts in order to improve the Illinois’s credit.

“The state has been on a trajectory toward better credit ratings, and I believe this initiative will only continue that trajectory,” Hunter said. “This initiative lessens the state’s debt and upholds our commitment to families and state employees.”

CHICAGO – The Illinois Institute of Technology will receive funding for a Certified Recovery Support Specialist Success program to prepare students for work as behavioral and mental health professionals.
IIT was one of 11 colleges and universities who were awarded a total of $4 million in grants through the Illinois Department of Human Services.

“As someone who has studied behavioral health, I am in full support of this program and its intent to bring up a new generation of specialists,” Hunter said. “Ensuring that mental health and substance use services are highly accessible is critical.”

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) to create the Real Estate Valuation Task Force to combat discrimination in the housing industry passed an important hurdle Wednesday.

“Discrimination in the housing industry goes back decades, and it has yet to be rectified today,” Hunter said. “Black and Brown people won’t have a fair chance at renting and home ownership until discrimination is addressed on a systemic level.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is spearheading a measure that would develop a program to award grants for apprenticeship programs.

“Many people are interested in participating in apprenticeship programs but often don’t have access to reliable transportation,” Hunter said. “Being able to afford transportation or child care would make a huge difference for many pursuing a career in trade.”