Happy May to all! I'm back in the 85th District after an abbreviated spring session and ready to continue meeting with constituents, stakeholders, and non-profits in the district. If you would like to schedule a meeting or tour with me, please reach out to my office at 815-372-0085 or info@repdagmara.org. At the end of session we passed the FY23 budget, which prioritized relief to people and families that need it most. It funds key initiatives around health care equity, community development, and business attraction. We also ensured there are millions of dollars going to fund public safety and law enforcement, and take a comprehensive approach to address crime and violence. |
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Keep reading to learn more about what my team has been doing out in the district, events coming up in the area, and resources for my constituents. Sincerely, |
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I was able to pass five bills this legislative session. These bills do things like addressing the teacher shortage, improving senior care facilities, be more inclusive of our immigrant population, and updates our ABLE policies to align with federal standards. To see more of my sponsored legislation, click here. |
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After this legislative session, I received a 5 star rating from The Network Advocating Against Domestic Violence. This rating is based on how legislators voted on various bills related to domestic violence, including the budget, which allocates $70.9 million for domestic violence funding. I'm grateful for the 5 star rating, and will continue to advocate and fight for domestic violence survivors. |
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OUT AND ABOUT Myself and my staff are continuing to be out in the district meeting with constituents and stakeholders. If you would like to set up a meeting, please contact us at 815-372-0085 or info@repdagmara.org |
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With the help of the community, Senator Connor's office, and the Romeoville Police Department, we had a very successful Women's Supply Drive! These supplies went to the United Way of Will County to assist with their hygiene heroes drive. Thank you to all who helped make this event a success! |
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In the last few days of session I participated in Healthy Illinois press conference in support of expanding healthcare for undocumented immigrants. We were able to secure a win this session in the expansion of healthcare benefits for individuals aged 42-54 regardless of immigration status. |
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Representative Yang Rohr and I recognized the accomplishments of Leslie Kiefer Loboda from Thomas Jefferson Junior High School in Woodridge School District 68. Leslie earned her National Board Certified Teacher recognition and is a wonderful leader in her school and district. Congratulations, Leslie! |
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I participated in a civics engagement panel hosted by CivicLab to discuss my non-linear path to becoming a State Representative. I was able to discuss how my grassroots organizing with ICRR has played an important role in the work I do as a legislator. |
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My team and I attended a ribbon cutting for a new business in Bolingbrook, Bailey's Catering! Mr. Bailey showcased his family's incredible food and story of how he came to open a location in Bolingbrook. We're excited to welcome him to the district. Bailey's Catering is located at 681 W. Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook. Click here to see their website. |
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My office hosted an informational session about the Illinois Homeowners Association Fund. We were joined by IHDA, Will County Center for Community Concerns, Rincon, and Community Service Council of Northern Will County. The application is open until May 31st. For more info and to apply, click here. Call my office at 815-372-0085 if you need assistance. |
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I had the great opportunity to participate in Lockport High School's Career Week, where I was able to talk to a group of students who are interested in a job in government. The students were very engaged and asked productive questions. Encouraging and fostering relationships with our youth is incredibly important, and I'm so happy I could participate. |
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My staff joined the Conservation Foundation to celebrate Earth Day at O'Hara Woods in a Bioblitz day! They spent time cataloguing different plants, insects, animals, and fungi they saw. These efforts will help staff learn how to better care for O'Hara Woods. If you are interested in volunteering with the Conservation Foundation, click here. |
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I joined Illinois Unidos Coalition for a legislative update to statewide stakeholders at their monthly meeting. Illinois Unidos is a coalition that aims to present a shared vision and united voice in stopping the spread of COVID-19 in communities throughout the state. To learn more click here. |
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I had the opportunity to meet with the Pierce Twins, their parents, and Bolingbrook Trustee Sheldon Watts to discuss HB3254, a bill the twins created. The purpose of this bill is to require diverse books and authors on summer reading lists. The bill passed the house and is currently in the Senate! Read more about it here. |
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Some of my team and I met with Joseph, who created the Ice and Fire Leadership academy. We toured the Friendship Centre, where they have started doing different programming for youth. It was inspiring to see all the incredible work the Leadership Academy has accomplished and the future plans they have. To learn more about what they do, click here. |
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Leader Manley, Representative Walsh, Senator Cappel, and myself joined the Joliet Chamber for a legislative update. We discussed the important work that was done in the FY23 budget, the smart on crime approach we are taking with the SAFE-T act and its trailer bills, and how to keep people in Illinois and Will County. |
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To end April, we joined Senator Connor and Representative Walsh for a community shred day event. We were happy to bring this event to the district so constituents can have the ability to securely and safely get rid of their unneeded documents. This is our second shred day, and we look forward to hosting more! |
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COMMUNITY EVENTS AND RESOURCES |
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The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research is hosting a Run/Walk in Bolingbrook on May 14th at Bolingbrook High School. If you would like to register, click here. |
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Will County Green is hosting an Electronic and Hazardous Waste Drop Off Event. This event is by appointment only. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for drop off, please click here. |
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Looking for a job or professional development workshops? Workforce Center of Will County has many events and workshops that assist in getting people the resources they need to find jobs. For more information, click here. |
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NAMI Will-Grundy is hosting a 5k and Yoga Cool down family friendly event! If you would like to sign up, please click here. All proceeds will benefit NAMI Will Grundy. My office will also be volunteering at this event, so if you would like to join us, please reach out to my Community Engagement Manager, Briana, at outreachmanager@repdagmara.org. |
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