More information and full text of these bills is available at www.ilga.gov by typing in the bill number.
 
I also encourage you to look in your mail for the U.S. Census form - if you haven't received it already you should shortly.  Please complete this quick, ten question form and return it as soon as possible.  A complete census count is critical to our community by maximizing the federal funds that we receive and ensuring we are fully represented in our local, state and federal legislative districts. 
 
According to information from 2010.census.gov, "the 2010 Census will help communities receive more than $400 billion in federal funds each year for things like:
 
    * Hospitals
    * Job training centers
    * Schools
    * Senior centers
    * Bridges, tunnels and other-public works projects
    * Emergency services
 
The data collected by the census also help determine the number of seats your state has in the U.S. House of Representatives."  For more information on the census, visit 2010.census.gov.
 
Next week I will provide an update on the State's budget - what the Governor is recommending and my thoughts on where we are in the process.
 
Best,
 
Heather A. Steans
State Senator