Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) tweeted, “Organ donors save hundreds of lives. In January 2010, I received a kidney transplant. This measure would make it easier for individuals who hold a hunting license to join the organ registry.”  

Rep. Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D-Skokie) tweeted, “Sneakers and suits for @AmericanCancer on the House Floor today in honor of the toughest, kindest guy I know, my Dad Michael Gong”  

Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) tweeted, “We honored Illinois' fallen veterans today, I met this great American: Chaplain Willard Fruits who gave the Invocation & led us in Washington’s Prayer. Fruits served in Korea & is a member of the Greatest Generation. Remember all who served and made the ultimate sacrifice for us”  

Rep. Carol Ammons (D-Urbana) tweeted, “We just passed HB5575 in the General Assembly today! This bill is a step forward in ensuring that small businesses owners and entrepreneurs in Illinois have equitable access to workforce opportunities without unnecessary occupational licensing requirements. @SBACIL @ijclinic"  

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Watching @repgregharris and @TomDemmer debate the budget in Exec cmte & realizing the depth of knowledge that is leaving the chamber after this year. These two have encyclopedic knowledge of the state budget & next year will be interesting w/new budget leads on both sides #twill"  

Sen. Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) tweeted, “People reentering society after being released from the IL Department of Corrections facilities should have access to documents regarding their time committed. Seems like a basic right but it’s currently not happening! That’s why I championing HB 4559”  

Sen. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Our taprooms, venues, food trucks, breweries, bars, and restaurants need our continued support. If you want to assure your local watering hole or favorite music venue stays open, call your legislator TODAY and tell them to put $125M into the budget.”  

Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) tweeted, “This morning, I attend a press conference in the Governor's office to announce $122 million renovation of the Armory building. I have such fond memories of attending community events there over the years. I look forward to seeing this iconic building restored to its former glory!”  

Rep. Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford) tweeted, “Late last night, House Democrats called a series of new crime bills to try to distract from the damaging SAFE-T Act they passed last year over the objections of law enforcement groups, victims' rights advocates, and public safety experts.”  

House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Hillside) tweeted, “Illinois is collectively pulling every lever possible to support the Ukrainian people. Congratulations to Representative Lindsey LaPointe on this consequential piece of legislation. #StandWithUkraine" 

Gov. JB Pritzker announced the state will begin a $122 million total renovation of the State Armory, located north of the Capitol. The funds come from the Rebuild Illinois capital plan. The renovations will allow executive agencies to use the building for office space and will be completed in 2025. The building has been the location of many important events to the Springfield community and has hosted presidents, famous athletes and other well-known people or music groups.

Ald. Raymond Lopez (15) tweeted “Chicago: I’m in!”  

Ald. Tom Tunney (44) tweeted “REMINDER: Opening Day at Wrigley is tomorrow! The game starts at 1:20pm. Parking and traffic restrictions begin up to two hours before the game. To report issues please call the Cubs game day hotline, 866-4-CPD-TOW.”  

Ald. Matt Martin (47) tweeted “Next week, join us for a virtual update on the proposed affordable development in the Heart of Lincoln Square. Register at http://bit.ly/western47”  

Ald. Harry Osterman (48) tweeted “Proud to stand with @afscme31 on #LibraryWorkersDay yesterday to recognize the tireless work of our library workers to support our community through learning!”  

Ald. Debra Silverstein (50) tweeted “I attended a grou[nd]breaking today for the new Illinois headquarters for Lubavitch Chabad at 2833 W. Howard.” 

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection will host a virtual Small Business Expo at 9 a.m. on May 5. “The interactive expo will provide business owners and entrepreneurs a forum to get expert advice, connect with industry experts and government agencies, learn new business strategies, meet other business owners, and attend an inspiring keynote address,” according to a news release. Online registration is required.  

Former Chicago Police Supt. Garry McCarthy has been appointed Interim Chief of Police for southwest suburban Willow Springs, whose population is about 5,000. He will be sworn in as chief of police later this month. 

Sen. Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) tweeted, “HB 5201 just passed out of committee and it will establish an Agriculture Equity Commission to ensure Illinois’ 116,417 farmers, including those most marginalized, are being adequately supported”  

Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Swansea) tweeted, “Libraries are very important, they provide education, resources, services, and safe spaces for our community. I continue to stand with and support our libraries. #LoveLibraryWorkers #NationalLibraryWorkersDay"  

Rep. Carol Ammons (D-Urbana) tweeted, “It was a joy to honor the Illini basketball team and their BIG Ten Championship win at Springfield today! Congratulations”  

Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) tweeted, “It’s time to pay it forward – we recently announced a plan to help support families through refund checks, sales tax pauses & more. Illinois has paid its bills; now it’s time to help you pay yours.”  

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) tweeted, “On April 4th From Members of IL General Assembly Condemning Springfield Police Officer's Racist, Homophobic, and Anti-Semitic Rhetoric. I will continue to speak out against such hate.”  

Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Great to see my @IlliniAthleticsfamily in the Capitol today. @luke_goode21, @CoachUnderwoodand @IlliniADshowing the @bigtentrophy around the dome. @IlliniMBB, you make us all proud. OskeeWowWow!”  

Rep. Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego) tweeted, “House Democrats voted yes to support Congress's initiatives to cap the monthly cost of insulin at no more than $35. Healthcare is a Human Right, and every person deserves access to quality, affordable healthcare.”  

Rep. Mike Zalewski (D-Riverside) tweeted, “Yesterday I voted for and co sponsored HB1466 that will cap the price of insulin. House Democrats are cracking down on Big Pharma and making prescription drugs affordable.” 

The Department of Agriculture filed emergency rules Tuesday prohibiting the sale or showing of poultry and flea markets, exhibitions and auctions to prevent the spread of avian influenza among birds. The rules are in effect for 150 days but will be reevaluated in 45 days.

Ald. Susan Sadlowski Garza (10) tweeted “Join SOAR (Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees) on Saturday May 21st at 1 pm, at 11731 S Avenue O, for the 2022 Commemoration of the 1937 Republic Steel Memorial Day Massacre.”  

Ald. Michael Rodriguez (22) tweeted “Happy Library Workers Day! Today, we celebrate the contributions of the library staff who keep our libraries running and make our communities better. Join me in thanking the amazing staff of Toman Branch!”  

Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25) tweeted “Librarians were on the front lines fighting for fair vaccination policies and public health measures for city workers at the start of the COVID pandemic in Chicago. Support the Chicago Public Library workers of @afscme31 everyday and especially on Library Workers Day”  

Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35) tweeted “The Pretrial Fairness Act protects the basic constitutional rights of all Illinoisans. Tell your legislator to vote NO on proposals to roll back basic human rights protections for Illinoisans”  

Ald. Harry Osterman (48) shared a Block Club article and tweeted “I'm excited to welcome The Understudy to Andersonville this summer! Theatre is a vital part of our community, and this cafe will be a great addition to our neighborhood.” 

The Chicago Cultural Alliance announced Mónica Félix as its new executive director. She was previously Chief Administrative Officer of the American Comparative Literature Association. 

Rep. Will Guzzardi (D-Chicago) tweeted, “The legislature is contemplating a variety of tax relief plans in these final few days of session. I’m not sure exactly what we’ll do. But I can tell you what we *won’t* do: We won’t fork over tax relief to the rich at the expense of the poor. And we won’t create a second, lesser tier of benefits for non-citizens. Recovery, relief, and re-investment for all. Especially the hardest hit.”  

Sen. Robert Martwick (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Called the son of a Chicago police officer today to tell him we are returning the proceeds of his dad’s life insurance policy from 21 years ago for $50K. Thanks, @ILTreasurer #unclaimedproperty #twill"  

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) tweeted, “During that last line of transphobic questioning of @stu4300 during a routine resolution, Sally decided she wasn’t having it and took to her couch. #twill"  

Sen. Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) tweeted, “Our 'Pay It Forward Plan’ tax relief proposal is a win for Illinois teachers”  

Rep. Avery Bourne (R-Morrisonville) tweeted, “In order for families and businesses to thrive, they need to be and feel safe. This is why we are focused on cutting crime, making sure violent offenders aren’t released prematurely, and supporting law enforcement.”  

Sen. Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) tweeted, “We need targeted tax relief in the IL FY23 budget for low-income households, and the creation of a child tax credit and expansion of the earned income credit gets us there.”  

Rep. Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford) tweeted, “The House is scheduled to adjourn this Friday and we have yet to see Democrats' promised anti-crime package. Illinoisans deserve better.”  

President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) tweeted, “As Illinoisans get back on their feet following a difficult two years, we want to help lighten the load with the Pay it Forward Plan. A sales tax freeze, refund checks, providing tax-free back-to-school shopping & more will help support Illinois taxpayers as we recover.”  

Sen. Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) tweeted, “HB 4559 to allow incarcerated people to request a summary of their master file passed! As Illinois continues to commit itself to a focus on restorative justice, making sure people have the resources they need to reflect and rehabilitate is vital.” 

Jim Reilly, the former head of Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority and Regional Transportation Authority, died Monday at the age of 77, the Tribune reported. Reilly was also a state representative and chief of staff to Gov. Jim Thompson and Gov. Jim Edgar on his reelection campaign.

Ald. Raymond Lopez (15) shared a copy of an order he proposed more than one year ago and tweeted “This order has [sat] in Public Safety Committee for 577 days. Imagine all the lives hurt because this administration prefers politics over public safety! #EnoughIsEnough”  

Ald. Matt Martin (47) tweeted “Proud to approve 46 new affordable units in the 47th Ward last year -- or 13% of all affordable units created under the ARO last year.”  

Ald. Harry Osterman (48) tweeted “Congrats to @SennHS teacher Trevor Nicholas for being a finalist for Educator of the Year at the @RecordingAcad Grammys this year!”  

Ald. Maria Hadden (49) shared a Block Club article and tweeted “Rogers Park residents are always amazing in their commitment to mutual aid and support efforts. This free store for refugees in Rogers Park needs a bigger, accessible home. Do you have a space that could house them? If so, contact [email protected]” 

The Metropolitan Planning Council and WTTW will host a virtual panel event at noon on Thursday titled “Health Segregation in Chicago: Envisioning a Future of Health Equity.” Panelists will include Metropolitan Planning Council president Darlene Hightower, Rush University Medical System senior vice president for community health equity David Ansell, Chicago Department of Public Health Managing Deputy Comm. Megan Cunningham and Sinai Community Institute president Debra Wesley. Online registration is required. The council will

Gov. JB Pritzker has appointed Samuel Knight to the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee, Delores Temes to the Statewide 9-1-1 Advisory Board, Edward Heflin to the Statewide Independent Living Council and Christopher Stohr to Mahomet Aquifer Council. 

Sen. Robert Martwick (D-Chicago) tweeted, “My measure to increase the minimum benefits for widows of Chicago 1st responders passed the House! Some widows have been living with financial hardship for decades. Pleased that the General Assembly has taken this step to support the families who sacrifice so much for all of us.”  

Sen. Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Always an honor to stand up here with my colleagues as we work to make Illinois communities stronger”  

Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) tweeted, “Like many members of our Central Illinois community, I'm saddened by the closure of Lincoln College. I’m sympathetic to the loss and uncertainty felt by students, faculty, staff and alumni. As it becomes available, I will share information and resources for individuals affected.”  

Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago) tweeted, “We are gonna have debates and discussions around public safety policy. The most important thing is to move from the old, failed status quo and towards a new, smarter public safety for all.”  

Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) tweeted, “Today we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the @ILStatePolice. For those who have served and continue to serve, thank you for the sacrifices you've made so we can be safe at home and in our communities.”  

Sen. Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) tweeted, “Those without health insurance could receive information on available state health insurance with a check of a box thanks to a measure I sponsored that passed through the Illinois Senate on Friday.”  

Rep. David Welter (R-Morris) tweeted, “Visited the top of the IL Capitol building with @timozinga"  

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Listening to Senate debate on HB4430 sending patience and love to @SenMikeSimmons while Senate Repubs concoct wild theories to justify blocking access to HIV prevention med. I’ve heard suggestions of multiple prescriptions, illicit markets, or a tool of human trafficking”  

Rep. Avery Bourne (R-Morrisonville) tweeted, “Happy 100th Anniversary to the @ILStatePolice! This week I co-sponsored a resolution recognizing their work, and the honorable men and women who serve with integrity and pride To the brave men and women who serve, I will always have your back. #BacktheBlue"  

Rep. Lamont Robinson (D-Chicago) tweeted, “I had the great pleasure yesterday to travel from Springfield over to Rantoul on the east-central end of the state to learn more about Lincoln's Challenge Academy.” 

Ald. Brendan Reilly (42) wrote in his latest newsletter, “Alderman Reilly has heard from many constituents regarding the proposed Tribune Publishing location, as it is very close to the 42nd Ward boundary and would directly impact many residents. Alderman Reilly takes constituent input very seriously and knows neighborhood residents are clearly opposed to the Tribune proposal.”  

Cook County Comm. Sean Morrison (R-17) wrote in a statement, “-A very real financial crisis could soon hit every government taxing body in Cook County. That’s because the Cook County Assessor’s Office could delay the second installment of the Cook County Real Estate Taxes up to six months and possibly into the first quarter of 2023. This delay in over $16 billion dollars in second half bills will force local government bodies to either draw down their reserves or borrow money with interest.” 

Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago released its schedule of webinars throughout the month of April on Homebuyer Education, “Financial Fresh Start” and Foreclosure Prevention. 

House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Hillside) tweeted, “Yesterday I was honored to welcome actor Harry Lennix to the Capitol. It was truly a pleasure sitting and chatting with the star of the NBC television show the Blacklist, and learning how he plans to bring the arts to the heart of the south side of Chicago.”  

Sen. Laura Fine (D-Glenview) tweeted, “Yesterday, my colleagues and I discussed our plans to address the rising cost of higher education. My bill, SB 819, would allow MAP grant recipients more flexibility in how they spend grant money, such as paying for textbooks and housing.”  

Sen. Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) tweeted, “To help service members who are transitioning from active duty to the workforce, I passed a measure to designate the IDVA as the primary assistance agency under the U.S. SkillBridge Program that helps employers find skilled workers.”  

Sen. Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) tweeted, “A student’s ability to pay should not determine the learning resources they have available to them. Students of all backgrounds deserve access to the tools they need for success.”  

Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield) tweeted, "It's estimated that 6.6 million people in the country cannot get a copy of their transcript because they owe a debt to their college, sometimes as little as $25," [Rep. Morgan] said. "Twenty-five dollars is keeping them from getting access to their transcripts."  

Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Lake Forest) tweeted, “On the floor with my colleagues, Sally Turner and Mike Hastings. We are getting ready to move bills on third reading!”  

Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) tweeted, “House Bill 3988, which creates the Task Force on Missing and Murdered Chicago Women, passed the Senate”  

Sen. Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) tweeted, “Meet the Eastern Milk Snake and the 11-year-old boy who had a vision to designate this reptile as our state snake! #ILGA"  

Sen. Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Illinoisans across the state are struggling, including university students. To help students find assistance I’m sponsoring HB 4201 to require universities to designate a Benefits Navigator - and it successfully past out of the Senate this week & is headed to the governor’s desk!”  

Rep. Ann Williams (D-Chicago) tweeted, “Today we celebrate #TransDayOfVisibility . As your state rep, I'm committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live as their most authentic self - while recognizing that this requires advocacy, action & a network of support from us all. #twill" 

The Department of Central Management Services and Gov. JB Pritzker announced Thursday a purchase and sale agreement has been reached with JRTC Holdings for the sales of the James R. Thompson Center at 100 W. Randolph Street. JRTC Holdings was chosen as the buyer of the building in December. Illinois will receive a $70 million up-front payment and retain 425,000 square feet of space in the building. Closing on the sale is expected to be completed this summer.  

Ald. Raymond Lopez (15) tweeted “Thank you to everyone that joined us in marking my ten year anniversary as Democratic Committeeman! It is truly an honor to be a constant voice for common sense within the party & supporting candidates that share that philosophy too!”  

Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35) tweeted “This #TransVisibility Day, Chicagoans and Cook County residents are rallying for trans lives calling on @ChicagosMayor and Cook County Jail to protect trans lives. The City of Chicago must protect trans people and provide our trans community with the resources needed to be safe.”  

Ald. Michele Smith (43) tweeted “I am proud to support Deborah Witzburg because of her impeccable credentials and background. As the chair of Chicago's first Ethics and Government Oversight Committee, I am thrilled to see this appointment coincide with the final day of #WHM, as she will be an advocate for all.”  

Ald. James Cappleman (46) tweeted “As we commemorate International Transgender Day of Visibility, here's some 46th Ward history. Thanks to @cmcelroy5 for her humor as we say no to bigotry!” 

Jake DiGregorio has joined the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce as its new Vice President of Communications and Marketing.