CHICAGO – State Senator Bill Cunningham is alerting his constituents about big changes to how Illinois issues driver’s licenses. Starting September 1st, anyone looking to renew their license, or get one for the first time, will have to make an appointment before visiting a Secretary of State office.

The new appointment-only program, called “Skip-the-Line,” is being introduced by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias to end the dreaded ritual of waiting in line for hours to renew a driver’s license.

“This new approach should drastically improve the experience of getting a driver’s license in Illinois,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “However, it will take some getting used to for both motorists and the Secretary of State’s office, so it’s important that Illinois residents familiarize themselves with the appointment-only process to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

The easiest way to book an appointment is to visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.ilsos.gov. Visitors can easily search for appointments by facility, date and time. Those who do not have access to a computer or are uncomfortable using one can call (844) 817-4649 to schedule an appointment with an operator.

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.”