Happy spring, Northsiders!
As our legislative session comes to a close with a traditionally early Republican bow-out, the enduring fight for equality, freedom, and justice in our state remains more important than ever.
After years of advocacy from progressive lawmakers, stakeholders, and community members, Assembly Speaker Vos — who recently announced his retirement — finally conceded votes on postpartum Medicaid expansion and coverage for breast cancer screenings. These developments absolutely merit celebration, and will be a boon to our public health; we are one of just two states that have yet to extend postpartum Medicaid for new mothers for up to one year, a shameful record that must be done away with.
On the other hand, issues including tax reform, gerrymandering, environmental stewardship, PFAS, and gambling remain to be decided upon. Despite the protests of many of my colleagues, whose concerns I share, our counterparts who hold the majority power in the legislature have opted to ditch months of meaningful policymaking for time off work.
Nonetheless, looking back on this legislative session, I’m proud to say that my colleagues and I have introduced many crucial legislative measures that lay the groundwork for a fairer future. From police accountability and restrictions on ICE to Rights of Nature legislation and caps on energy costs; from Paid Family and Medical Leave to food waste reduction to Healthy School Meals for All, we have laid out a forward-thinking vision for a state where the will of the people is truly the law of the land.
I want to thank each and every one of you who has participated in legislative advocacy, voiced your values, helped build community, and stood up for yourself and your neighbors during these trying times. As always, and above all, we must remember that community is all we have!
