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).

 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.

 There are more than 15,000 property owners whose taxes are past due in our district. It is extremely important to pay off any outstanding balances to avoid fines or even a possible loss of your property.

Please click the here to find out if you are at risk. The next annual tax sale where property that has not paid it’s taxes can be sold is May 2018. If you have any questions, you should call your taxing body (The Cook County Treasurer's Office.) Phone number: (312) 443-5100.