Collins joins colleagues to support needed revenue increases and investments

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined legislators and advocates at a press conference Wednesday to fight for needed investments in Illinois communities by holding the ultra-rich accountable, closing corporate loopholes and making the tax system more equitable for working families.

“Our goal is to bring in new sources of revenue and additional revenue so our state can continue to operate and serve our communities,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “It is vital now more than ever that the wealthiest of our societies start paying their fair share.”

The initiative, brought to the Senate by Collins, is focused on closing tax loopholes for big businesses and investors. Her proposal, outlined within Senate Joint Resolution 22, would protect Illinois from the federal administration’s budget cuts by intentionally decoupling state tax policy from the federal expansion of tax breaks for corporations, bringing revenue and equity back to Illinois to fund the programs working families rely on.

• SJR 22
• Corporate Loopholes
• Essential Programs

Read more: Collins joins colleagues to support needed revenue increases and investments

Black Caucus stands with Massey family following Grayson sentencing

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago), Senate Joint Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement after Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the Murder of Sonya Massey:

“Sonya Massey’s life was stolen far too soon, and nothing can undo the pain her family and community have endured. While this sentencing cannot bring her back, it is an important step toward accountability for the harm done.

“Our hearts are with the Massey family as they continue to grieve and seek healing. We must continue working to ensure that justice is served and that our communities can have trust in those who are entrusted to protect and serve.”

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• Sonya Massey
• ILBC

Collins law clarifies how law enforcement engage with trespassers

SPRINGFIELD – Police in Illinois are now able to remove squatters more effectively under a law led by State Senator Lakesia Collins that took effect Jan. 1.

“We are clarifying what the law says to help communities respond to unlawful trespassing,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Laws require clarity and this law ensures police do not have to resort to eviction, by instead giving them the appropriate guidance to ensure they can enforce criminal laws.”

Collins’ law comes in response to local squatters who snuck into a home while the owner was away. Law enforcement told the owner that they could not remove the squatters and that the homeowner would need to file an eviction.

• SB 1563
• Trespassing
• Law Enforcement
• Squatters

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Illinois expands protections for nursing home residents, thanks to Collins

CHICAGO – Residents of nursing homes across Illinois now have additional protections thanks to a law championed by State Senator Lakesia Collins that bans retaliation against nursing home residents.

“In assisted living, folks rely on their caregivers and staff to help with day-to-day tasks, and they shouldn’t be fearful of speaking out when something isn’t right,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This law gives seniors the respect they deserve, expands and protects their rights, and gives them more opportunities to seek justice.”

Under Collins’ law, nursing homes are prohibited from retaliating against a resident who is exercising their rights. If a resident faces retaliation, they are able to file a civil suit against the nursing home and potentially recover damages.

• Seniors
• Nursing Homes
• HB 2474
• Nursing Home Residents

Read more: Illinois expands protections for nursing home residents, thanks to Collins