Sims stands firm in commitment to promoting economic growth

SPRINGFIELD – Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. released the following statement after the governor outlined his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2025:

“By building on our shared commitment to fiscal responsibility, Illinois has made significant strides in achieving strong financial footing, marking a pivotal turning point in our state's fiscal trajectory. Key indicators demonstrate we continue our progress toward financial stability. Together, we have implemented responsible budgetary practices that prioritize fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability.

“Our commitment to economic growth and job creation has yielded positive results. With targeted investments in education, infrastructure, and workforce development, we are laying the groundwork for sustained prosperity not only for the next fiscal year but the next generation. By fostering an environment conducive to business expansion and innovation, we are attracting new investments and generating revenue that bolsters our financial resilience.

“Additionally, our efforts to reform our state’s pension systems and address long-term liabilities are bearing fruit. While challenges remain, we are making progress toward achieving fiscal sustainability and ensuring the long-term solvency of our pension funds.

“I stand firm in my unwavering commitment to serving the best interests of the people of Illinois. By promoting economic growth, supporting education, ensuring public safety and enhancing the overall well-being of our communities, we aim to build a stronger, more prosperous and more equitable future for all residents of our great state.

“The governor’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025 is a good first step toward investing in educating our students, protecting our most vulnerable populations, and preparing for our future, but our work is far from done. I look forward to joining my colleagues in the General Assembly in having a robust discussion about this year’s budget and passing a budget that is balanced, fiscally sound, and addresses the very real needs of the people of this great state.”

Sims works to give youth who commit non-violent crimes resources to get back on track

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is leading efforts to ensure youth who commit non-violent crimes are given a second chance.

“Providing youth with the opportunity to develop positive behaviors should be the foundation of our efforts to prevent further crime and violence,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Too often, young people veer off the path toward healthy adult lives because they aren’t provided the resources they need to stay on track.”

Under Sims’ measure, people under the age of 18 who committed a non-violent crime would be provided a number of resources, including employment opportunities, educational resources, parental mentorship training and more.

Additionally, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority would develop a mentorship initiative to provide the young people with counseling by a trained trauma therapist, as well as assistance with applying for SNAP and other public aid.

“Ensuring youth have the ability to succeed and move forward supports the development of their assets and resilience, leading them to better, healthier lives,” said Sims. “The support provided under Senate Bill 2535 will not only save young lives, but also prevent the onset of adult criminal careers.”

Senate Bill 2535 passed the Senate Special Committee on Criminal Law and Public Safety.

Sims receives Outstanding Legislator of the Year award from Illinois Association of Park Districts

CHICAGO – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. received the Illinois Outstanding Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Parks Association.

“Parks are at the heart of our communities, where families and neighbors gather to grow, prosper, and make priceless memories,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Bringing forth the concerns of our constituents and crafting policies that will make a meaningful impact to everyday problems faced by residents is our top priority as a legislative body."

The Illinois Association of Park Districts recognizes legislators for their exceptional support of legislation promoting park districts, forest preserves, recreation and conservation agencies across Illinois. Sims has been a longtime advocate for Illinois parks and is proud to continue to support park districts across Illinois through initiatives like the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program.

“Parks throughout the 17^th District and the state of Illinois are beloved by their communities, and I am always looking for ways to continue to improve them and the experiences our neighbors have while visiting them, while bringing residents the more accessible open spaces they want,” said Sims. “Maintaining our parks is a commitment to our communities and I will proudly continue to work with the IAPD to bring life to our parks and benefit residents across the state.”

For more information or to learn more about the Illinois Association of Park Districts, visit their website.

Chicago State University receives funding to address student homelessness thanks to Sims support

CHICAGO – With support from State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr., Chicago State University will receive $200,000 to address student homelessness and help provide necessities many students lack.

“When students lack basic necessities – like food or housing – they lack the stability to allow them to reach their full potential,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Chicago State University will now have the resources to uplift its most vulnerable students, putting them on the path to success.”

The End Student Housing Insecurity grants were awarded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and will be used to support ongoing efforts to address systemic causes of student homelessness and basic-needs insecurity. Chicago State University is one of 10 institutions chosen by the IBHE.

The grants were awarded by a competitive application process, based on the school’s ability to address primary causes of homelessness and basic-needs insecurity, and to help students overcome barriers to graduation. The $200,000 investment to Chicago State University is just one step in the state’s higher education plan to close equity gaps for students.

“Students should not have to worry about food or housing insecurity during an already stressful season of their life,” said Sims. “The grants will allow students to focus on their education rather than on how they’re going to put food on the table.”

For more information on the End Student Housing Insecurity grants, click here.