SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Bill Cunningham and supported by State Representative Mary Gill, which provides mental health support and education for law enforcement officers who are facing post-traumatic stress disorder, was signed into law.

“This will provide law enforcement officers with the support and resources they need to manage their mental health,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “We created a supportive resource for officers seeking help after specific traumatic situations and for PTSD."

Cunningham’s legislation creates a Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator, who will be responsible for providing resources, information and assistance to law enforcement officers who may be experiencing PTSD symptoms or other mental health issues related to their work.

CHICAGO – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Bill Cunningham is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“This is a great opportunity for students to better their education this summer through reading,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “I encourage parents to sign up and help their kids foster a love of reading.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Cunningham’s office by Aug. 18. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Cunningham.

Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorBillCunningham.com. Senator Cunningham urges interested residents to call his office at (773) 445-8128.

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate approved a Fiscal Year 2024 budget, and State Senator Bill Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs, released the following statement in response:

“We have once again chosen to make a smart fiscal decision that will help attract business to Illinois and will ensure that our children have access to the education they deserve.”

“This year’s budget holds the line on taxes, puts extra money into the state’s Rainy Day Fund and pays down pension debt.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham advanced House Joint Resolution 23, which demonstrates the state's support for the I-55 Managed Lane Project and the Illinois Department of Transportation's efforts to pursue the project as a public-private partnership.

“The passage of HJR 23 is a significant milestone in addressing the need for improved transportation infrastructure in our state,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This project will not only reduce traffic, but also contribute to economic growth and regional connectivity residents deserve.”

HJR 23 signifies a crucial step toward enhancing transportation infrastructure within Illinois. By supporting the creation of new express toll lanes, the I-55 Managed Lane Project aims to alleviate congestion and improve travel efficiency along the busiest stretches of I-55.

Under the Public-Private Partnership Act, the Illinois Toll Highway Authority now has the authorization, granted through joint resolution by the General Assembly, to pursue the creation of two new toll lanes in each direction from east of I-294 to I-90/94, and one in each direction from I-355 to I-294.

“This will improve transportation infrastructure and address the needs of Illinois residents,” said Cunningham. “The passage of this resolution marks an important milestone in advancing the I-55 Managed Lane Project and paves the way for future progress in alleviating traffic congestion in the state.”

HJR 23 passed the Senate on Thursday.