CLIENT VICTORIES
WHY OUR CLIENTS ARE SMILING
We helped them pass important legislation on issues they care about.
“In a victory for families, system-impacted people, and the concept of generational wealth, [Illinois HB1268] passed the Senate 43-8 and passed the House 80-34 and is headed to the Governor's desk. Congratulations to all who advocated! Thank you to the legislators who supported and the legislative process.”
-Gregory L. Chambers, Policy Manager, Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishments
Illinois HB1268 amends the Probate Act of 1975. It provides that a person who has been convicted of a felony is qualified to act as an executor if: (i) the testator names that person as an executor and expressly acknowledges in the will that the testator is aware that the person has been convicted of a felony; and (ii) the person is otherwise qualified to act as an executor.
It Takes A Village Family of Schools
Seldom do we find ourselves in the presence of clients who leave an indelible mark on our self-perception and our outlook on the world. Last week was a remarkable occasion as It Takes A Village Family of Schools graciously welcomed a cohort of legislators to witness firsthand the profound impact they have on the lives of young minds. In a world where they uplift, inspire, and educate, our appreciation knows no bounds.
Kudos to the visionary founders, Nakisha Hobbs and Anita Andrews-Hutchinson, and the dedicated team at It Takes A Village Family of Schools for granting us an immersive experience in their extraordinary realm. The presence of dynamic legislators, including Camille Y. Lilly, Harry Benton, Mary Beth Canty, Sonya Marie Harper, State Representative Maura Hirschauer, and their diligent staff member, Logan Owens, added immeasurable value to this powerful tour. It was a journey of inspiration and enlightenment that left an enduring impression on all involved.
City of Aurora
We take immense pride in celebrating the City of Aurora, a valued client, and acknowledging the outstanding legislators whose dedication played a pivotal role in passing a comprehensive legislative agenda during the 103rd Illinois General Assembly. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to our collaborative efforts and shared commitment to progress.
Our heartfelt congratulations extend to the following distinguished individuals: Richard Irvin, Linda Holmes, Karina Villa, Barbara Hernandez, MPA, Stephanie Kifowit, State Representative Maura Hirschauer, and Matt Hanson. Their unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have resulted in several vital City of Aurora initiatives being enshrined in law.
These groundbreaking initiatives include:
- "Drones As First Responders" (HB 3902)
- "IDPH Plumbing Pilot Program" (HB 2621)
- "EPA Limestone Materials" (HB 3095)
- "Police Training Out-of-State Waivers" (SB 1754)
This legislative milestone not only reflects the City of Aurora's commitment to innovation but also its mission to enhance the well-being of its residents. It is a momentous occasion that brings positive change to our community.
"I witnessed deceptive crisis pregnancy center tactics firsthand on a visit to tour a Planned Parenthood health center in Illinois. People who appeared as though they might work there were outside attempting to divert patients away from the health center…"
—Attorney General Kwame Raoul (speaking on the impetus behind Senate Bill 1909)
"Patients report going to crisis pregnancy centers - sometimes even receiving exams and ultrasounds - thinking they were visiting a clinic that offers the full range of reproductive care. As a result, patients may disclose personal medical information, unaware the center may not keep that information private and confidential. By signing this law at a time when reproductive health access faces continued attacks in other states, Governor Pritzker is helping to protect patients who seek care in Illinois from these extreme violations of trust and privacy."
Planned Parenthood
SB 1909 bill signing ceremony at Planned Parenthood Headquarters.
Governor JB Pritzker signed SB1909 into law, also known as the Deceptive Practices of Limited Services Pregnancy Centers Act. This law bars so-called "crisis pregnancy centers" from using misinformation, deceptive practices, or misrepresentation in order to interfere with access to abortion services or emergency contraception. The law allows the Illinois Attorney General to investigate complaints against centers using such tactics and strengthens the AG's Offices power to prosecute incidences of consumer fraud in such cases.
"Women need access to comprehensive, fact-based healthcare when making critical decision about their own health—not manipulation or misinformation from politically motivated, non-medical actors," said Governor JB Pritzker. "By empowering the Attorney General's office to battle deceptive practices, we're ensuring
Illinoisans can make their own decisions about their bodies using accurate and safe information."
"Misinformation is a form of injustice, particularly when it is used in an attempt to control women's healthcare decisions," said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. "In Illinois, we refuse to accept anything less than bodily autonomy for all, and that includes the right to accessible and accurate medical information. We are committed to protecting Illinoisans from these manipulative tactics and ensuring all have the power to choose what is best for their futures."
Attorney General Kwame Raoul
Fighting Forward Gala for Planned Parenthood Illinois, US Senator Dick Durbin, Lt. Gov Juliana Stratton, Planned Parenthood of Illinois VP of Public Policy Brigid Leahy
House Chief Sponsor, Rep. Costa Howard (pink blazer) and Co-Sponsor Gregg Johnson (blue tie), Attorney General Raoul, and Katie Stanczykiewicz, Planned Parenthood of Illinois Director of Government Relations (grey dress)
SB 1909 bill signing ceremony at Planned Parenthood Headquarters. House Chief Sponsor, Rep. Costa Howard (pink blazer) and Co-Sponsor Gregg Johnson (blue tie), Attorney General Raoul, and Katie Stanczykiewicz, Planned Parenthood of Illinois Director of Government Relations (grey dress)
Illinois Society of Orthotists & Prosthetists
In a momentous victory for the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) community, the Illinois Society of Orthotists & Prosthetists (ISOP) celebrates the passage of SB 2195, now officially recognized as Public Act 103-0512. This significant legislative milestone was made possible through the 'So Kids Can Move Campaign,' a campaign that contributes to the broader national effort known as 'So EveryBODY Can Move.' The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals, both children and adults, with limb loss or limb differences, have access to affordable prosthetic care, empowering them to fully participate in physical activities.
This legislative victory not only underscores ISOP's dedication to the advancement of orthotics and prosthetics but also highlights its mission to empower individuals through movement. It's a significant milestone that brings about positive change, not only within the local community but on a national scale.
These are the kinds of legislative achievements that leave a lasting impact and immense satisfaction. ISOP extends its heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional Chief Sponsors, Sen. Gillespie and Rep. Guzzardi, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in this journey. The organization also appreciates the 24 co-sponsors from the House and Senate who lent their support to this bill. The contribution of Governor Pritzker, President Harmon, and Speaker Welch, who stood beside the advocates throughout this remarkable battle, is acknowledged with deep gratitude.
#ISOP #SoEveryBODYCanMove #WeAreOandP #Orthotics #Prosthetics #MovementIsMedicine #IllinoisSocietyofOrthotistsandProsthetists #PhysicalActivityIsARight #EmpowerThroughMovement #SoKidsCanMove
Pictured, right: Illinois Society of Orthotists and Prosthetists President James Kaiser, CP/L
