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Sims’ plan to develop affordable housing for community college students becomes law

CHICAGO— Community college boards of trustees and local housing authorities will now have authority to develop affordable housing for community college students under a new law sponsored by State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago)

“This will be a major bonus for not only students but community colleges as well,” Sims said. “There are many advantages to living on campus for students, but the benefits go far beyond having an onsite dorm room or apartment. Studies show that students who live on campus complete more credit hours and have higher grade point averages.”

Traditionally, community colleges do not have the right to own student housing. In order for community colleges to develop affordable housing for students, the process must be administered through a local Housing Authority or nonprofit organization.

Advocates for the law also suggest that restricted housing on community college campuses fails to meet the needs of every student. Traditionally, community colleges have catered to students living within a reasonable driving distance of the school, but while that arrangement works for some students, more students are facing a lengthy and costly commute. That can present a challenging barrier to those living at a distance, especially for students who live internationally.

Sims praises the success of Illinois’ improved bond ratings

CHICAGO— For the first time in more than two decades, the state of Illinois has received a bond rating upgrade from Moody’s Investors Service. Following the announcement, State Senator Elgie Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“When budget negotiations first began this Spring, I vowed to move Illinois toward fiscal stability by working with other leaders in taking a responsible approach for a brighter future for all Illinoisans. Moody’s ratings upgrade coupled with the recent positive economic outlook by Fitch shows that all of the hard work and determination that went into a plan that moves Illinois forward and puts taxpayers first is working. The state of Illinois is headed in a positive direction and I am very proud of our progress.

I looking forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Governor to continue our collective efforts to improve the state’s financial condition and to ensure fiscal stability and growth for all Illinoisans. Our work continues.”

Sims reacts to Derek Chauvin Sentence

 CHICAGO- Senator Elgie Sims (D-Chicago) released the following statement after Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 22.5 years in prison:

“No sentence would bring Mr. George Floyd back to his family, but today’s sentence does not go far enough toward holding Derek Chauvin responsible for the trust he’s broken. This tragedy has not only affected the Floyd family, but has affected all of us. And, that’s why we should not be distracted from the fact that there is still more work to do to ensure our system of justice is fair and equitable for everyone.

“In today’s closing statements, Mr. Floyd’s brother said ‘Our family has been given a life sentence. We will never get George back.’ I want to send my warmest regards to the Floyd family, as we know today’s sentence will never fill the void they all must be feeling.

“After a year of devastation and pain, we were brought to a guilty verdict. I think today’s sentence should have reflected that, but instead it fell short.

“Today’s sentencing does not reflect the severity of this issue that has effected many families in communities of color.

“We need systemic changes to our public safety systems, and we need our criminal justice system to say ’We hear you,’ but the only way we will get to true equity and justice is if we go there together.

“We must continue to say his name: George Floyd!”