The saying “April showers bring May flowers” definitely applies to this Spring season. We’re back in session in Springfield for the month of May after a brief spring recess. During the break, I enjoyed the chance to participate in several events across our district. It was wonderful connecting with so many of you and seeing our neighborhoods in bloom!
Please read on for legislative and government updates, community events, and more.
Legislative Updates
The Illinois budgetary process kicks into high gear in the final weeks before we adjourn at the end of May. Following the Governor’s budget address in February, my colleagues in the General Assembly and I have been engaging in crucial negotiations to diligently iron out the details, propose amendments, and reach compromises on state spending priorities. This concentrated effort is essential for the legislature to finalize and pass the budget before the end of session, ensuring its implementation by the start of the new fiscal year on July 1st.
In the coming weeks, the House will continue to hear Senate-passed legislation. Among these is SB1507, sponsored by Senator Sara Feigenholtz, which I am proud to be championing in the House. This bill directs the Urban Transportation Center at UIC to study the potential of innovative AI traffic camera technology to modify driving behavior and decrease accidents. Since 2019, there have been more than 16,000 crashes on DuSable Lake Shore Drive. I have repeatedly heard from residents of 1550 N. Lake Shore Drive and other concerned constituents about the dangers along this high-incident corridor. Having proven successful elsewhere, this technology offers a real opportunity to address the persistent safety issues on vital roadways, and it’s imperative that we explore these public safety solutions.
Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the concerns regarding DOGE and the actions of the Trump administration that so many residents have reached out about in recent weeks. I share your frustrations and know how troubling these last few months have been. As a state legislator, I remain laser focused on advocating for the 12th District and ensuring that no matter what happens at the federal level, Illinois remains a safe haven for reproductive freedoms, LGBTQ+ rights, equitable economic opportunity and more.
If you have any questions or concerns, please always feel free to contact my office at (773) 348-8974 or by email at info@repcroke.com.
In the Community
Indivisible Lakeview/Lincoln Park Chapter April Meeting
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Thank you to the Indivisible Lakeview/Lincoln Park chapter and Paul Kendrick for having me at their April meeting. It was great discussing what’s happening in Springfield, what my colleagues and I are pushing for this session, and what our community should prioritize in their advocacy right now.
Weather and Climate-Related Property and Casualty Insurance Seminar with IDOI
Our office hosted a Weather and Climate-Related Property and Casualty Insurance seminar alongside Senator Sara Feigenholtz, Representative Ann Williams, Representative Hoan Huynh, Representative Cassidy, Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer, and Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele. A special thank you to Corbin McGhee from the Illinois Department of Insurance for leading the discussion and answering questions from constituents.
If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry! Email info@repcroke.com, and we’ll send you the webinar recording. Remember, the Department of Insurance is always available as a resource!
43rd Ward Shred Event
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Spring Shred Event at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Senator Feigenholtz, Commissioner Degnen, Alderman Knudsen, and my staff enjoyed seeing and helping so many neighbors with their electronics recycling, paper shredding, and prescription drug take back. Thanks to R4 Services for providing their expertise for this event!
IDFPR Professional Licensing Application Assistance
Have you or someone you know been experiencing delayed wait times or other issues in your application for professional licensure? We invite you to attend our upcoming IDFPR licensing event, hosted by our office, Senator Feigenholtz, Senator Collins, Representative (Ann) Williams, Representative Morris, and Representative (Jawaharial) Williams. Personnel from IDFPR will be present to assist with applications, provide guidance with deficiencies, and answer any other questions you may have. This event will take place on Monday, May 12th from 2-6PM at the Lincoln Park Chicago Public Library (1150 W Fullerton Ave).
We kindly ask that those interested in attending fill out the RSVP form so that one of the legislative offices may contact you to ensure that you have all materials prepared for best results.
For questions, please contact our office at (773) 348-8974 or via email at info@repcroke.com
Government Updates
Kennedy Expressway Bridge Rehabilitation Project
Rehabilitation work on the Kennedy Expressway’s outbound lanes has resumed, prompting overnight ramp and lane closures between Ohio Street and Montrose Avenue from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. During this phase, the reversible express lanes will operate outbound only, with two mainline outbound lanes closed. The reversible mid-gate entrance/exit will be inaccessible until mid-July, forcing O’Hare-bound traffic to remain on the mainline.
REAL ID
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has instituted a requirement to obtain a REAL ID if you are seeking to travel by plane beginning on May 7, 2025. If you have any questions or if you are not sure if you need a REAL ID, please head to the Illinois’ Secretary of State website linked here.
In order to support existing efforts to serve the increased demand for REAL IDs, the Secretary of State launched a new REAL ID Supercenter in the Loop. The facility offers walk-in services from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday at 191 N. Clark St.
Medicaid Updates
With the upcoming end of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency funding, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) will resume its regular process of reviewing Medicaid eligibility. To ensure you continue to receive coverage, HFS will be contacting members with important information. Please make sure your contact details are current.
Updating your address and other information is easy, fast and free. Call 877-805-5312 from 7:45am–4:30pm or visit medicaid.illinois.gov. If you use a TTY, call 1-877-204-1012.
Senior Illinois Hall of Fame
The Illinois Department on Aging honors the accomplishments of Illinois residents aged 65 and older by having a Senior Illinois Hall of Fame. Each year, four older adults are inducted into the Hall of Fame for their work in arts, sports, and entertainment; community service; education; or the labor force. To be considered for the 2025 induction class, all nominations must be submitted no later than June 2, 2025. To learn more or to nominate someone, click here.
Grant Opportunities
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
DCEO has a variety of grant opportunities available:
The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program will empower and equip individuals and communities with the skills, resources, and confidence they need to use the internet to fully participate in Illinois’ modern society and economy. Recognizing that achieving digital equity for all people is a matter of social and economic justice, this NOFO seeks to enable any entity that is awarded a grant under this Program to better address systemic barriers to digital equity, resulting in improved outcomes in health, education, economic stability, and quality of life. For more information, click here. The application deadline is Thursday, May 8, 2025. For any questions, email Devon Braunstein (devon.braunstein@illinois.gov).
The Construction and/or Renovations to Buildings, Additions, or Structures Grant supports bondable costs associated with constructing or renovating buildings, adding structures, and developing related amenities like parking and sidewalks. Covered expenses include exterior renovations to prolong the life of surfaces, structures, and foundations; roof replacements down to the decking, along with materials for water and ice control; and, as part of a larger bondable project, interior enhancements such as painting, electrical and lighting replacements, accessibility upgrades, and fire safety installations. The application deadline is Monday, June 2nd 2025. For questions, email David Parr (david.parr@illinois.gov).
Clean Energy Career and Technical Education Pilot Program will provide funding directly to eligible recipients to support the planning and implementation of a Clean Energy Career Pathway. Programs will include coursework, field experiences, and work-based learning designed to prepare students for entrance into careers focusing on electric vehicles. This funding opportunity seeks qualified, eligible public or private educational institutions at the secondary and post-secondary level that will work with the Local Workforce Innovation Areas and employers to recruit students into clean energy fields and create pathways encompassing technical and employability skills with dual credit options. The application deadline is Monday, June 30th, 2025. For questions, email John Barr (john.w.barr@illinois.gov).
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (IDCFS) is offering the CAR Family Care Plan Pilot Grant. This grant is intended to ensure the safety and well-being of an infant with prenatal substance exposure and the pregnant person by addressing the health and substance use disorder treatment needs of both the infant and the affected family or caregiver. Eligible applicants are county governments, city or township governments, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations.
Applicants can see grant awards of up to $250,000. The deadline for the grant is June 6th, 2025, by 5:00 PM (CST). For more eligibility information, please click the link here.
For more details, please contact Leslie S. Rice at (312)-328-2953 or through email atDCFS.GATA@Illinois.gov.
Do you want to stay up-to-date on active state grant opportunities? Subscribe to Illinois NOFO Notifications to receive a weekly digest of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) offered by state agencies.
To subscribe, send a blank email (subject and body) to subscribe-omb-gata-grants@lists.illinois.gov.
Upcoming Events and Community Meetings
18th Police District Council Meeting
The 18th Police District Council will host their next meeting on Tuesday, May 27th at 6PM (location TBD). 18th District Commander Barz will provide an update on public safety issues. To RSVP, click here.
19th Police District Council Meeting
The 19th Police District Council will host their next meeting on Wednesday, May 28th at 6:30 PM at Uptown Church (1134 W Wilson Ave). This meeting will focus on Restorative Justice. To RSVP, please click here.
Old Town and Lincoln Park Earth Day
Join the Old Town Triangle Association and many other community groups on Saturday, May 10 from 9am-12pm (333 West Wisconsin Avenue) to give back to our planet. Some of the projects include gardening, painting, planting, mulching and more. There is no cost to participate but please RSVP here.
Gold Coast Neighbors Association Toast to the Coast Fundraiser
Join the Gold Coast Neighbors Association Toast to the Coast Fundraiser on Thursday, May 15th from 5:30-8:30PM at the Casino Club (195 E. Delaware Place). You’ll be supporting the efforts of Gold Coast Neighbors on behalf of safety, historic preservation, zoning, and beautification in our community by attending. To learn more, click here.
44th Ward Shred Event
Spring cleaning is here. On Saturday, May 17th from 9am-12pm come by 3223 N. Sheffield Avenue for the 44th’s Ward Shred Event. Please remove all heavy-duty staples, paper clips, metal fasteners, rubber bands, etc. from your documents prior to arriving at the shredding station. Limit to two boxes per household. For questions, call (773)-525-6034.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival
Get your summer started at the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival. The festival is Friday, May 23rd (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM), Saturday, May 24th (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM), and Sunday, May 25th (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM). The festival spans Belmont Avenue and Sheffield Avenue, from the corner of Belmont to Roscoe Street. Enjoy tribute bands, tasty food, artisan vendors, and community activities. To learn more, click here.
The Old Town Art Fair
The Old Town Art Fair takes place on Saturday, June 14 (10:00am-7:00pm) and Sunday, June 15 (10:00am-6:00pm) in the heart of the Old Town Triangle Historic District. There will be 200+ nationally acclaimed artists, an estimated 35,000 art lovers, a Garden Walk, Live Music, Food Court and Children’s Corner. The Old Town Art Fair is one of the few public Chicago events that is completely planned, staffed and managed by volunteers, so they can always use the help! To learn more about volunteering, click here.
Resources
LGBTQ+ Resources
For the full Trans Legal Survival Guide by Advocates for Trans Equality, click here.
Equality Illinois also has a resource list from legal groups to health clinics. Click here.
As a reminder, here are three ways you can take action:
If you witness discriminatory practices (e.g., at a school, healthcare facility, or other institution), report it to Equality Illinois, the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, and/or the Illinois Department of Human Rights. Please reach out to our office as well.
Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community in your area by connecting with local leaders, members, and organizations. Reach out personally and share messages of support on social media.
Don’t allow federal attacks on equality to dictate our aspirations for a more inclusive Illinois.
Museums in the Park Free Admission Opportunities
Museums in the Park offers free admission opportunities to reduce barriers for visitors. Read above to see if you qualify!
Cook County Health Birthday Health Screening Program
Cook County Health is now offering free breast and prostate cancer screenings to eligible residents during their birthday month. Call 312-864-4289 to learn more and to schedule an appointment.
Mental Health Mobile Crisis Response
Residents of the 19th Police District are encouraged to keep the above contact information for Mental Health Mobile Crisis Response. If you or someone you know may be struggling with a mental health crisis, please utilize these resources.
PAWS Shoutout
We have a new PAWS Chicago pal to introduce for May: meet Sasha!
Meet Sasha, the Queen of Naps! This elderly dog is full of life and love, spending her days cozied up in a soft doggie bed or snuggled by your side. Sasha loves her daily walks and takes her time sniffing every intriguing scent along the way. She’s the perfect companion for a quiet home and enjoys the company of calm dogs. If you’re looking for a loving, laid-back friend, Sasha is ready to fill your home with joy! Visit PAWS Adoption Center in Lincoln Park to meet her.
Make an adoption appointment by emailing adoptionconcierge@pawschicago.org or with any additional questions.
Nonprofit Shoutout
The Grace Network
The Grace Network is a non-profit that supports thousands of students facing hygiene insecurity. Working with more than 130 schools throughout Chicago, The Grace Network supported more than 10,000 Chicago area students by donating half a million hygiene items this year alone–and outfitted 27 schools with laundry units as well.
Data shows close to 15% of all Chicago Public School students will experience homelessness at some point in their education. By supporting students facing adversity at the most basic level, this organization helps break down barriers and provide a better experience for students.
“Thanks to The Grace Network, students are not only getting what they need academically and socially/emotionally, they are getting what they need as a human,” said Jessica Fitzgerald, a student advocate at Metcalfe Elementary school in West Pullman.
For more information or to learn about volunteer or donation opportunities, please click here.
Social Media
For the latest updates on bills, Springfield happenings, and helpful resources, follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Wishing you a safe and healthy May. As always, please reach out to my office with any questions or concerns.
