SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate began a new session today with the inauguration of the 101st General Assembly.

State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) is ready to continue working on measures that protect seniors, support education and expand healthcare access.

Aquino was recently chosen as Senate Co-Chair of the Legislative Latino Caucus and is looking forward to taking on the new role.

“While Illinois and the nation saw a blue wave this past election, we can’t rest on our laurels moving forward,” Aquino said. “We need to continue pushing progressive ideals that will move our state forward in this new General Assembly with a new administration.”

Aquino was first elected to the Senate in 2016 and represents the 2nd District in Chicago’s Northwest Side.

SPRINGFIELD- State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) joined members of the Senate in overriding Governor Bruce Rauner’s veto of legislation that helps human trafficking and crime victims obtain visa certification paperwork from law enforcement within 90 business days. Aquino released the following statement after the vote:

“Victims of human trafficking and other severe crimes need our support as they help capture from those committing crimes against them and escape terrible situations. This legislation creates a process that ensures they have the documentation necessary to request a visa and encourages them to work with law enforcement. I encourage my colleagues in the House to approve this measure.”