Protecting and improving juvenile justice

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to fight back against deep cuts to critical state programs and services, Assistant Majority Leader Senator Kimberly A. Lightford voted to fund the Dept. of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) at a level of $150 million – $16 million more than last year. Senator Lightford released this statement about her vote.

“A higher funding level for the Department of Juvenile Justice will allow the department to better reach and rehabilitate the youth of our state. Increasing the number of staff working with our troubled youth will improve safety for the children and staff, while improving educational opportunities and the overall chances of rehabilitative success for each child.

“Stronger mental-health and special-education services within the department will ensure that every young person is provided the help they need. We also need reform efforts concerning our commitments to children beyond their release dates. More formalized hearings will go a long way in preventing future incarceration and protecting the futures of all children and adolescents in Illinois.”

Boston Celtic & St. Joe's Coach visit the Capitol

Senator Lightford had the pleasure of hosting St. Joseph High School basketball Coach Gene Pingatore and former St. Joe's basketball player and current Boston Celtics small forward Evan Turner on the Senate floor last week!

The General Assembly passed resolutions designating: Canterbury Street from Mandel Avenue to Westchester Boulevard as "Evan Turner Street," Cermak Road from South Wolf Road to Westchester Boulevard as "Gene Pingatore Road," and Westchester Boulevard from Roosevelt Road to Cermak Road as "Isiah Thomas Boulevard" in honor of the contributions made by all three basketball legends to athletics and the local community.

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Tech Day at the Capitol

• Event
• Saturday University

The Illinois General Assembly celebrated Tech Day at the capitol earlier this May! Senator Lightford welcomed student representatives from Lindop Elementary School and J. Sterling Morton West High School, as these exemplary scholars presented their innovative tech projects at the Capitol. The studetns and their projects were truly modern marvels!

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"We Love Our Men" Prostate Awareness Event