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.”

SPRINGFIELD – Reacting to Trump’s announcement that he will try to end birthright citizenship through executive order, State Sen. Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“Trump continues his fearmongering against immigrants by completely undermining our constitution in his announcement that he will attempt to end birthright citizenship. Recent events have showed us how dangerous this type of rhetoric against any group of people has become. I denounce this attack on our constitution and continue to stand with our immigrant population.”

Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) and Assistant Majority Leader Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) hosted a town hall and workshop on Wednesday to review the process for applying for capital and agency funding and discuss the possibility of a future capital development bill in Illinois.

Over 30 local community agencies ranging from health, social service, the arts and afterschool programs gathered at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture for the event.

“We wanted to make sure we expanded what people knew about the capital bill, that it goes into infrastructure, it goes into brick and mortar stuff, and how we’re going to be creative in making sure that we’re getting equitable dollars in our districts,” Aquino said.

Speakers included Becky Locker, Director of Policy and Budget for the Illinois Senate Democrats, Jen Walling, Executive Director of the Illinois Environmental Council, Colleen Smith, Legislative Director for Illinois Environmental Council and Representative Luis Arroyo.

New Lilly Diabetes Solution Center and Helpline now up and running

CHICAGO – State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) encourages those struggling to afford insulin to contact the Lilly Diabetes Solution Center and Helpline by dialing (833) 808-1234.

“Access to life-saving medicine, like insulin, should be a right and not based on a person’s ability to afford it,” Aquino said. “I commend Lilly Diabetes for providing a resource that will help the many people struggling to control their diabetes because they simply can’t afford it.”

The new solution center and helpline is available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Callers are greeted by staff who will review each individual’s personal circumstances and work to identify low-cost options for insulin products.