The legislative session officially adjourned over the weekend, meaning the busy period in Springfield is over and I will be back full-time in the 12th District.
Please read on for legislative and government updates, community events, and more.
Legislative Update
I am proud to announce that two pieces of legislation I championed this session successfully passed both chambers of the General Assembly and are now on their way to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.
The first is the Restaurant Anti-Piracy Act (HB2456), which prohibits third-party sites from selling restaurant reservations without a restaurant’s permission. This legislation is designed to protect our local businesses and their employees, and will go into effect immediately following the Governor’s signature. Hopefully it’ll be just in time to take advantage of all our great outdoor dining options!
The second is SB1507, which was introduced by Senator Sara Feigenholtz, and I was proud to champion it in the House after Senate passage. The 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. This study aims to determine how these AI cameras can improve long-term driving behavior and roadway safety. Given its success elsewhere, this technology offers a significant opportunity to address persistent safety issues on our vital roadways, and I look forward to seeing how we can continue to explore innovative public safety solutions.
In addition to these successes, an important resolution I sponsored to designate Infertility Awareness Week, HR0094, was also adopted. This resolution formally declares April 20th to April 26th as Infertility Awareness Week in Illinois, aiming to increase public understanding, offer support for individuals and couples experiencing infertility, and break the stigma around this issue.
Budget Update
On the final day of session, the General Assembly passed a budget for FY2026. I was proud to support a responsible and compassionate state budget.
I’ve seen how hard our families work to build bright futures, and so many are anxious about the actions of the Trump Administration threatening to stump our progress here.
I share those concerns and how the Trump Administration could leave Illinoisans vulnerable to critical service cuts that risk healthcare affordability and accessibility for our low- and middle-class families. That’s why I voted for reallocating $193 million into clinics, safety net hospitals, and community health centers for low- and moderate-income families. Plus, I voted to create the Budget Reserve for Immediate Disbursements and Government Emergency Bridge Fund, positioning our state to patch potential cuts from Washington.
I also voted for a raise in wages for our live-in caregivers and direct-support professionals. This will protect our seniors and those with disabilities, allowing them to continue treatment plans without disturbance in the face of federal cuts. In addition to protecting affordable and accessible healthcare, I also voted for $300 million in funds to support our public schools and after-school programs statewide.
I know the challenges facing our transit agencies are a major concern for many of you, and I want to be clear: I’ve heard your worries about potential service cuts and the impact they would have on our community. That is precisely why I co-sponsored the Metropolitan Mobility Authority Act (HB1833), legislation aimed at foundational reform by combining Metra, Pace, and CTA into a single, more efficient agency. Structural reform must happen before or concurrently as we consider significant new public funding. We cannot in good conscience ask hardworking taxpayers to invest more into a system that isn’t currently serving them effectively. I am deeply committed to advancing these necessary reforms to build a transit system that is reliable, efficient, and truly works for everyone.
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.
Pride Month
June is Pride Month, a time to reflect and improve on allyship and community. Our state’s active LGBTQ+ history reminds us to recognize the ongoing fight for equality and rights, and to celebrate the inclusive policies we’ve fought for. This month, we celebrate and honor the resilience and ambition of this vibrant community, while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.
Discover some ways you can celebrate Pride Month in our beautiful city and lively district:
- Explore Choose Chicago’s guide, Chicago Pride: Your guide to Chicago Pride Parade, Pride Fest, and more, where you can explore many events that will be happening in the city, as well as the history of pride in Chicago.
- Consider volunteering and/or donating to any of these local organizations focused on lifting up and supporting all LGBTQIA+ people.
- Check out the Human Rights Campaign’s guide on Being an LGBTQ+ Ally to learn more about how you can support those in your community.
LGBTQ+ Resources
For the full Trans Legal Survival Guide by Advocates for Trans Equality, click here.
Equality Illinois also has a resource list including organizations 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.
Juneteenth
This June, we honor Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally learned they were free. Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of our nation’s journey toward justice and equality, and a time to reflect on the work still ahead. As we celebrate this day, let us honor the resilience, culture, and contributions of Black Americans, especially Black Illinoisians, throughout our history.
Intern Farewell
Farewell to my district office’s amazing Spring interns, Akua and Felipe. This month, they presented the capstone project they have been working on throughout the semester to track legislation that has been passed since the 101st General Assembly and analyze the enduring impact these laws have on constituents across Illinois. Wishing Akua and Felipe all the best in their next chapter!
In the Community
Old Town Triangle Association Earth Day Event
During Mother’s Day weekend, the kids, Patrick, and I joined the Old Town Triangle Association’s Earth Day event at Ella Jenkins Park. It’s always fun having the opportunity to get our hands a little dirty while giving back to our planet and enjoying the beautiful outdoors!
IDFPR In-Person Licensing Assistance Event
My office partnered with Senator Feigenholtz, Representative Ann Williams, Senator Collins, Representative Morris, Representative Jawaharial Williams, and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to offer professional licensing assistance at the Lincoln Park Library. Through this initiative, IDFPR assisted 58 individuals and issued 39 licenses. IDFPR is actively working on the remaining cases to ensure individuals complete their licensing process. This event is always one of my favorites because it directly helps people secure jobs and advance their careers by obtaining the licenses they need!
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.
Text Messaging Scam
As you have probably heard, or even received a text yourself, scammers are targeting Illinois residents with fraudulent text messages that claim to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” and threaten to suspend their vehicle registration and driving privileges. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. The phony text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into providing personal or financial information. If you received a text, please report it here.
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.
Grant Opportunities
Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
- 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. For questions, email John Barr (john.w.barr@illinois.gov).
- The Future Energy Job Act Multi-Cultural Grant Program supports community-based, diversity focused organizations that strive to provide participants with development, economic or career-related opportunities within the clean energy sector. Grants will support services to the Economic Development Regions that are environmental justice communities and/or underrepresented populations living in communities that are eligible to receive workforce services. The application deadline is Tuesday, July 1st. For questions, email John Barr (john.w.barr@illinois.gov).
The Illinois Department of Human Services
The Community Youth Services (CYS) grant program equips Illinois communities to prevent youth violence and delinquency (ages 11-24) using a systematic, resident-led planning approach. CYS tackles the root causes of risky behaviors by fostering safer, healthier environments for youth. Local committees implement targeted strategies that bolster community engagement, youth development, family support, connections to essential services, and advocacy for improved local conditions.
For more information, click here or email Jennifer Roland at jroland@icoyouth.org.
Upcoming Events and Community Meetings
Lincoln Park Farmers Market
The Lincoln Park Farmers Market’s 44th annual season is up and running. The market is on Saturdays in the parking lot of the Lincoln Park High School (724 W Armitage Ave) from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM until Saturday, November 22. To learn more, click here.
18th Police District Council Meeting
The 18th Police District Council will host their next meeting on Tuesday, June 25th at 6PM at the Old Town Triangle Center (1763 N. Park Avenue). 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 Saturday, June 28th at 11am at Third Space (716 W. Addison Street). This meeting will gather community input for the CPD WFA Study. To RSVP, please click here.
Lincoln Park Health & Wellness Weekend
Kick off summer with a focus on you! Celebrate the season of sunshine at Lincoln Park Health & Wellness Weekend—your go-to destination for energizing workouts and expert self-care. Discover exciting new wellness businesses and enjoy special promotions all weekend long! Join the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce (LPCC) on Saturday, June 7th for free classes at Lincoln Common and a Health & Wellness Showcase featuring a variety of local businesses specializing in health and wellness products and services. Enjoy learning about each business as they feature giveaways, run free health assessments, and conduct other interactive experiences. Then, on Sunday, June 8th, join LPCC at Theater on the Lake for free classes on the lakefront. Learn more here.
Annual Blood Drive at St. Theresa’s Church in Lincoln Park
From 7:30am to 1:30pm on Sunday, June 8th, Versiti is hosting a blood drive at the St. Teresa of Avila’s Parish Center (1950 N Kenmore Ave). If you would like to donate, you can make an appointment by clicking here.
Alderman Bennett Lawson’s 4th Annual Kids Bike Parade
On Saturday, June 14th, meet at Belmont and Broadway at 8:45 am for Alderman Bennett Lawson’s 4th Annual Kids Bike Parade, with the official parade beginning at 9:00 am. Helmets are mandatory and decorated bikes are encouraged. For questions, call 773-525-6034.
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.
50th Anniversary Wells Street Art Festival
Join the Old Town Merchants Association in Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Wells Street Art Festival on Saturday, June 14th and Sunday, June 15th on Wells Street from North Avenue to Division Street. This year’s festival will feature local food, music, and interactive opportunities. To learn more or if you would like to volunteer, click here.
Chicago Pride Fest
Chicago Pride Fest is a two-day street festival on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22. The 24th annual Chicago Pride Fest is a celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture and community in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood. A $20 suggested donation for entry helps pay performers and festival workers, and supports local non-profits & community programs. Click here for more information.
Pride Parade
The 54th annual Chicago Pride Parade steps off at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 29 from Sheridan and Broadway in the Northalsted neighborhood. The parade, featuring 150 colorful entries, will travel the 20-block parade route from Sheridan south on Broadway, south on Halsted, then east on Belmont, then south on Broadway, and then east on Diversey to Cannon Drive. These groups will march in solidarity under the theme “United in Pride.” If you would like to volunteer, click here.
Resources
Package Theft Prevent Tips
Above are some helpful tips from the Chicago Police Department to prevent your packages being taken. You can report the theft by calling 311.
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!
PAWS Shoutout
We have a new PAWS Chicago pal to introduce for June: meet Wishbone!
Wishbone’s foster family described him as a “gentle, sweet dog” and they can’t wait to find him his fur-ever home! He’s comfortable in his crate and trustworthy in the house, but just needs a little time to get to know his new family at his own pace.
Make an adoption appointment by emailing adoptionconcierge@pawschicago.org or with any additional questions.
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 June. As always, please reach out to my office with any questions or concerns. I look forward to seeing you around the district this summer!