Lightford to put an end to resident dumping

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford is leading the charge to put an end to “resident dumping” – an inhumane practice in which a nursing facility discharges a resident and refuses to readmit them after a hospital stay.

"Resident dumping is a betrayal of trust at life's most vulnerable moment,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Seniors have made these places their sanctuaries, their communities and their final homes. To deny them return is to strip away their belonging, security and dignity when they need it most.”

To strengthen resident rights in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Lightford’s proposal would enhance the involuntary discharge process within these communities. If a resident leaves the facility for a medical reason – and would not create imminent danger to themselves or others – the facility would be required to let them come back home under House Bill 1597.

“Resident dumping” affects thousands of nursing facility residents who are uninsured or underinsured, have a mental health condition, or have had to spend time in a hospital or rehab facility and find they’re not allowed back into their nursing facility.

“The true mark of a compassionate society is not how we care for the healthy, but how we protect those who depend on us most,” said Lightford.

House Bill 1597 passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee Tuesday.

Leader Lightford works with Lt. Governor Stratton to bring menopause support

SPRINGFIELD – Many women – particularly those in underrepresented communities – endure untreated symptoms of menopause that negatively impact their quality of life. In turn, Senate Majority Kimberly A. Lightford is fighting for more critical access to care.

"Menopause represents a crucial public health concern that demands our attention, particularly for women in marginalized communities," said Lightford (D-Maywood). "Health care disparities disproportionately affect Black and Latina women, leaving many without sufficient resources and support during this significant life transition."

Lightford is working alongside Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and Academy Award-winning actor and wellness advocate Halle Berry to ensure women have the knowledge and resources they need to receive appropriate menopause care. Senate Joint Resolution 25 would declare Oct. 12-18 Menopause Awareness Week. The resolution raises awareness about the expansive effects that menopause has on women’s health and how women can advocate for themselves.

A 2022 report from the National Institute on Aging found that Black women are less likely to receive menopause-related medical advice due to systemic health care barriers. Many endure untreated symptoms that negatively impact their work productivity and quality of life. These inequities make policy interventions like the Menopause Awareness Week resolution critical for ensuring fair access to care and workplace protections. 

“Women’s health is a public health priority—and menopause advocacy is long overdue,” said Lieutenant Governor Stratton. “In a time when access to care and medical research are under attack, we cannot afford to let women’s health needs be ignored. Illinois is leading the way in ensuring that menopause is recognized, researched, and addressed through policy. We are not just having the conversation—we are taking action to close the gaps in care, workplace protections, and medical research.”

The Senate adopted the resolution Friday.

Lightford honored with prestigious Chicago Defender’s Vanguard Award

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CHICAGO – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford was one of three women to receive the prestigious Chicago Defender’s Vanguard Award for her 26 years of contributions of bettering the lives of the people of Illinois.

“Thank you to the Chicago Defender for this tremendous honor. To be recognized among such extraordinary women is truly humbling,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “In reality, this isn’t my award. This award belongs to the Black girls who were seen but not heard. The Black girls who suffered trauma at the hands of a loved one. The Black girls who were told they couldn’t be all they could be.”

The Chicago Defender’s Women of Excellence Awards celebrates local African American women who inspire others through their vision and leadership, exceptional achievements, and participation in community service. They are women who exemplify extraordinary stature, poise and grace. These women do it all while maintaining the delicate balance of filling the roles of helpmate, mother, teacher and professional.

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Women's History Month

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I want to recognize the incredible leadership and dedication of First Lady Dr. Mekita K. Whitfield. As a committee member, a First Lady in the 4th District, and an educator, she continues to uplift our community through service and education. Her commitment to empowering others is a true example of the impact women make every day.

 

This month, let’s honor the women who inspire us, break barriers, and lead with purpose.