Dear neighbor,
October is here – and while for some that means colorful leaves and festive drinks, for me it means heading down to Springfield for the fall veto session to continue the work we started in the spring.
Keep reading for an overview of the spring legislative session, as well as updates on what I’ve been up to in the community and resources to help you. As always, my office is available to help you access state resources, answer questions on legislation and more. Reach out by calling 708-632-4500 or sending me a message at www.SenatorLightford.com.
Sincerely,
Kimberly A. Lightford
State Senator | 4th District
FROM THE CAPITOL
Putting an end to resident dumping
Resident dumping is a betrayal of trust at life's most vulnerable moment. I led a measure to put an end to the inhumane practice in which a nursing facility discharges a resident and refuses to readmit them after a hospital stay. Read more
Mending relations between Black and diaspora communities
Jan. 1 is an important day in Black history – confederate slave owners were mandated to free slaves at midnight on Jan. 1, 1893. I built upon her steadfast work to end systemic racism by recognizing Jan. 1, 2026 as Black Diaspora Freedom Day. Read more
Protecting survivors
Recognizing that financial abuse is a common tactic used by abusers to maintain control over victims, I led a measure through the Senate to prohibit collection agencies from collecting debt incurred through coercion. Read more
Working to bring menopause support
Many women – particularly those in underrepresented communities – endure untreated symptoms of menopause that negatively impact their quality of life. In turn, I am fighting for more critical access to care alongside Lt. Governor Stratton. Read more
Equitable Higher Education Conversation at CSU
I attended the ILBCF’s Listening Session at Chicago State University for Senate Bill 13 – the Equitable Higher Education Funding Formula that I am sponsoring and fighting for. Two knowledgeable speakers discussed the funding challenges facing Illinois colleges and universities.
The panel highlighted the importance of passing SB 13, drawing parallels to a similar bill for K-12 education. Two CSU honors students and the CEO of the Chatham Small Business Association participated, and we enjoyed a soul food meal in honor of Black History Month. I was thankful to receive praise from State Representative Carol Ammons, who thanked me for the work I have done on this bill. It was a pleasure to connect with fellow education champions.
Loyola Legislative Breakfast
I had a great time attending the first legislative breakfast at Loyola University Medical Center, where I joined Speaker Welch, Representative LaShawn K. Ford, Mayor Nathaniel G. Booker and Board Chair DeRondal Bevly. We discussed the key health care issues facing the state and explored ways to improve the health of Maywood
ILBCF Youth Civic Engagement Day
I had the honor of joining hundreds of bright, passionate young leaders from across Illinois at the Illinois Black Caucus Foundation’s Youth Civic Engagement Day in Springfield. This annual event brings our youth into the heart of state government, giving them a chance to see how policy is made, how their voices matter, and how they can shape the future of their communities.
Illinois State University Legislative Breakfast
I was proud to join faculty, students, community leaders, and fellow legislators at the Illinois State University Legislative Breakfast in Springfield. That morning reaffirmed for me the vital role our public universities play not only in educating young people, but in driving economic growth, lifting up communities, and shaping the future of our state.
Acclivus at the State Capitol
I had the honor of participating in Acclivus Advocacy Day in Springfield. It was a powerful gathering uniting survivors, advocates, community leaders, and policy makers in a shared mission to confront violence and its aftermath, and to seek solutions rooted in healing, equity, and justice.
Delta Days
I was proud to stand alongside my Sorors, the women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., for Delta Days at the State Capitol, a signature advocacy event dedicated to advancing policy that uplifts our communities. Throughout the day, Sorors met with legislators, attended issue briefings, and advocated for meaningful change in areas like education equity, maternal health, economic development, and criminal justice reform. Our voices were informed, intentional, and impactful.
RESOURCES FOR YOU
Illinois launches new hotline, resource hub for LGBTQ+ community
Everyone deserves to live with dignity and pride. ILPrideConnect.org is here for LGBTQ+ Illinoisans in need of affirming support, resources and more. If you’re in need of help, visit their website or call 855-805-9200.
