CHICAGO – Encouraging students and children throughout the community to continue their education through summer reading, State Senator Lakesia Collins is launching her Summer Book Club for residents in the 5^th District.

“Reading is one of the most important skills a child can practice, and by continuing to read they will be better prepared for the new school year,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This is a fun way to keep kids engaged with school topics and gives them something to work toward this summer.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Collins’ Chicago office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a prize and a certificate from Senator Collins.

SPRINGFIELD – Addressing health care deserts and ensuring mothers get the care they need, State Senator Lakesia Collins moved legislation through the Senate to give certified nurse midwives more independence and greater flexibility in care they provide.

“We are giving certified nurse midwives the flexibility to collaborate and deliver services and care to our communities,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This legislation modernizes the rules for providers to give residents greater access to health care in our community.”

Currently, certified nurse midwives have to collaborate formally with a physician to practice at full scope, but this can pose a challenge as more than one-third of Illinois counties lack sufficient maternity care. Under Collins’ legislation, House Bill 2688, CNMs would be allowed to provide out-of-hospital birth services at licensed birth centers without the need for a formal collaboration agreement, as long as they have permission from the birth center’s clinical director.

SPRINGFIELD – To recognize and honor the history and legacy of Emmett Till, State Senator Lakesia Collins presented a resolution to honor July 25, 2025 as Emmett Till Day in the state of Illinois.

“It is important that we remember our history, and we remember the truth of what happened to Emmett Till,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “The courage of Mamie Till-Mobley should inspire all of us to work toward a better future for all Illinois residents as we remember their memory.”

Senate Joint Resolution 37 declares July 25, 2025 as Emmett Till Day in Illinois to recognize the life and legacy of Emmett Till and recognize the historical significance of his death in the struggle for civil rights in the United States.

SPRINGFIELD – Hundreds of members from the Service Employees International Union joined State Senator Lakesia Collins at the Capitol on Wednesday to speak about the challenges faced by home health care workers.

“Home care workers give their life to taking care of our communities and deserve to know Illinois has their back,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “As a former home health care worker, I know the struggle and challenges they face, and as a legislator, I am fighting for their right to be fairly paid and protected.”

Collins, a fierce advocate for SEIU and health care workers across Illinois, is proud to join advocates to support Senate Bill 120, which would increase the rate for in-home services under the Community Care Program to $32.75 to support a minimum wage of $20 an hour for direct service workers.