Dear Neighbors,
This has been a particularly busy and productive session. In recent weeks I have continued my emphasis on safeguarding our environment by sponsoring two key pieces of legislation reducing state government use of single-use disposable plastic and strengthening enforcement mechanisms for stormwater protections.
Next week I’ll be joining the White House State Legislative Convening on Non-Consensual Intimate Image Abuse to discuss ways we can protect women from online abuse and harassment. I recently sponsored the Digital Forgeries Act here in Illinois to combat the proliferation of ‘deepfakes,’ which are increasingly used to create non-consensual, explicit digital forgeries. This legislation strengthens protections for increasingly insidious forms of cyber-harassment and maintains Illinois as a leader in combating this type of online abuse.
And as always, if you are ever in need of assistance, do not hesitate to contact my office. We are available weekdays at (847) 486-8810, you can also email us at info@gonggershowitz.com.
Sincerely,
Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz
Legislative Update
This week I was able to pass several Senate bills out of committee that I am sponsoring in the House. I wanted to highlight some of these important pieces of legislation.
SB58 – This legislation requires that Illinois state agencies reduce single-use disposable plastic foodware consumption by 50% by 2031 and by 75% by 2036. Illinois government should lead by example as we seek to reduce our environmental impact and this bill is an important step in that mission.
SB101 – PANDAS and PANS are two neurological conditions that can afflict children after a Strep infection. Illinois law requires that insurance companies cover these diseases, but currently only covers 1 treatment per year, even when more are medically necessary. I’m proud to join my friend and Senate colleague Laura Fine to sponsor SB101, which would close that coverage loophole.
SB 1673 – Environmental protections need to come with enforcement mechanisms that have real teeth. That’s why I introduced SB 1673, which secures the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District’s ability to enforce vital stormwater management policies.
District Update
I recently received the Visionary of the Year award from the Chinese Mutual Aid Association at their annual gala recently. Thank you to CMAA for the work they do every day to defy the odds and be a shining example of what it means to shape our American story through service to community.
Fire Department Training
I had the opportunity to join the Glenview Fire Department for their live fire training at the former Allstate Campus. Several fire departments from nearby communities were able to participate as well in this vital real-world training in a high-rise building.
Guest Speaker at Northwestern
I had the privilege to speak recently to a class of Northwestern students for their “Women and American Political Leadership” course. I shared my experiences in the legislature and had a great time hearing what the students are passionate about as well.
Glenview Resident Open House April 22nd
My office will be joining other local organizations, school districts and healthcare providers on Saturday April 22nd at the Park Center for Glenview’s annual Resident Open House. Stop by to learn about all the great things Glenview has to offer and say hi to my team and I!
Drug Take-Back Day April 22nd
In partnership with the DEA, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) will be accepting unwanted medication as part of National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Help keep our water clean by responsibly disposing of expired or unused prescription drugs.
Medicaid renewals begin again this June
Illinois is checking to see if you are still eligible for Medicaid. Get your due date (redetermination date) and verify your mailing address so you get your renewal letter. Click Manage My Case at abe.illinois.gov or call 1-800-843-6154.
Events and Opportunities
- Emily Oaks Nature Center in Skokie is hosting an Earth Day event on Sunday, April 23rd from Noon to 4 PM. Native plants and earth-friendly foods will be available for sale. The event is free for all ages, more information HERE.
- McGaw YMCA in Evanston is having a free community day on Saturday, April 29th beginning at 1 PM. Childcare is available for ages 2+, you can see what activities are available and sign up HERE.
- Chicago River Day is May 13th from 9 AM to Noon, join the Friends of the Chicago River to help keep the river clean! You can register to volunteer online HERE.