SPRINGFIELD — Residents struggling to pay their gas or electric bills will not face life-threatening utility shutoffs on hot days thanks to an initiative sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter that was signed into law Friday.

“This is a major victory for public health and the people of Illinois,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Heat is extremely dangerous, and families should not be put in harm’s way due to their financial circumstances.”

The legislation amends the Public Utilities Act to prohibit a utility company from terminating gas or electric service due to nonpayment of bills on days when the forecasted temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above, or when the National Weather Service issues a heat watch, advisory or warning for the location of the residence. Previously, disconnections were prohibited during temperatures 95 degrees or hotter and did not take into account humidity or heat index.

SPRINGFIELD — Joining fellow Senate Democrats in celebrating the signing of the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget, State Senator Mattie Hunter highlighted key investments that will uplift underserved communities.

"This budget reflects our unwavering commitment to the people of Illinois,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “Prioritizing investments in education, housing, mental health care and other critical areas will give our communities the tools they need to live successful, meaningful lives.”

Continued funding for housing initiatives includes $350 million to the HOME Illinois program, which will support unhoused populations through additional housing units, rental assistance and workforce development opportunities. Additionally, significant investments in mental health services ensure enhanced access to essential behavioral health support for youth and adults.

“Investments in behavioral health care are investments in our future – our children, families and communities,” Hunter said. “By expanding our financial support of mental health care, housing support and workforce training, we can help individuals get back on their feet and secure an income and an address.”

The FY24 budget was signed Wednesday and will go into effect on July 1.

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter, a staunch advocate for women’s rights and safety, has been appointed to a new task force that will study violence against Chicago women and girls.

“We cannot stand idly by while the lives of Chicago women and girls are cut short or shattered by violence,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This task force will serve as a catalyst for change, enabling us to better understand the root causes, devise effective prevention measures and support those affected by these devastating crimes."

The Task Force on Missing and Murdered Chicago Women – created through a law championed by Hunter in 2022 – is charged with exploring methods for tracking and collecting data on violence against Chicago women and girls, policies and institutions that impact them, measures necessary to address and reduce violence, and ways to help victims and their communities.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) released the following statement in response to the Senate’s passage of the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget:

"I am pleased to see Illinois continue its commitment to supporting our most vulnerable populations. The historic investments made in this budget will have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

“An $85 million increase in funding for unhoused populations will provide critical support for homelessness prevention, affordable housing and outreach programs. Additionally, a new Illinois Grocery Initiative will expand food access in underserved areas, promoting healthier communities statewide.

“Recognizing our responsibility to protect youth in state care, a $75 million increase for the Department of Children and Family Services will fund additional staff, enhance training programs, increase opportunities for youth and improve care facilities. Moreover, a new Children's Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative will improve access to essential behavioral health services for our state’s youth.

“This budget also demonstrates our commitment to working families by investing in child care, workforce training and education, ensuring parents no longer have to choose between caring for their family and making a living.”