SPRINGFIELD — During Governor JB Pritzker’s State of the State and Budget Address, he prioritized funding for older Illinoisans, people with disabilities, and the Illinois Department of Employment Security — all priorities shared by Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake).

She released the following statement about these pressing matters Wednesday:

“The times we are faced with have made a state budget seem like a nearly impossible feat, yet the governor was able to prioritize our most vulnerable populations. Older Illinoisans and people with disabilities have often felt unheard throughout the pandemic. Today, however, they can know their voices are being elevated.

“Additionally, while I have been frustrated with the issues revolving around the Illinois Department of Employment Security, I feel a sense of hope knowing that additional investments may finally allow people to have their hardships handled.

“We are one step closer to a better and more normal tomorrow.”

GRAYSLAKE — A number of students in the district State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) represents will have a chance to learn out in nature, thanks to the Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Grant Program.

“Hands-on learning, especially when children can see the change they’re making, is some of the best learning,” Bush said. “Students who benefit from this grant funding will be able to gain a sense of responsibility and learn more about the beautiful world around us, all while making a difference in the community.”

Lakes Community School and Prairie Crossing Charter School received nearly $1,500 in total to create pollinator gardens to teach students while supporting the outdoor life of their schoolyards and communities. 

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant program is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Conservation Fund to support the development or enhancement of wildlife habitat on the school grounds or other public places. Projects funded by these grants are meant to teach children that their actions can make a difference in the world while increasing the use of native plants in Illinois. 

Funding for the program is provided through donations to the ICF. More than $329,000 in Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant funding has been distributed since the program’s inception. 

Applications for the next round of Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Grants will be open soon, with an application deadline of Nov. 30, 2021. More information on applying for the next round of grants can be found on the IDNR website. 

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) released the following statement after being sworn in to serve the 31^st District for another term in the General Assembly:

“Serving the people of Northern Lake County has been an immense honor. Last year, more than ever, I learned just how important the legislature can be.

“During a year where we faced an ongoing public health crisis, grave racial injustice and divisive politics, I was reminded that it’s imperative to use my voice and my position to fight for the rights and lives of all Illinoisans.

“As I took the oath today, I was reminded of every life unjustly lost, every family who struggled to make ends meet and every small business that was forced to shut its doors during the past year. I was reminded I must uphold my duty to best serve the people I represent, so no one else has to suffer.

“Thank you, to the people of the 31^st District, for trusting in me to continue to represent you at home and in Springfield. My work to make Illinois and the Northern Suburbs a better, safer and more inclusive place to live is far from over.”

Senator Bush has served the 31^st District since 2013.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) released the following statement after the nation’s top court ruled women seeking abortion through a pill must visit a doctor’s office, hospital or clinic in person:

“Abortion – whether it’s through a medical procedure or through a pill – must be treated like every other medical procedure.

“Women should not have to risk their health by going into the doctor’s office during the heightened COVID-19 pandemic to receive the medication they need to terminate a pregnancy or deal with a miscarriage. Moreover, women may be forced to have more invasive procedures due to restrictions placed on doctor’s appointments in response to the pandemic.

“I am disheartened by yet another action taken by the Supreme Court to dismantle a woman’s right to choose.”