Johnson applauds local businesses as latest grant awardees

WAUKEGAN – An additional 23 locally-owned businesses in the 30th Senate District will receive a combined $715,000 from the Back to Business grant program thanks to support from State Senator Adriane Johnson.

“Businesses have begun moving forward from the COVID-19 pandemic, however, there are still some needing support to fully recover,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “The Back to Business grant program has been vital to keeping doors open for thousands of small businesses across the state.”

In total, 124 small businesses in the 30th District have been awarded more than $5.3 million since the program started.

DCEO has provided $250 million in B2B grants – thanks to strong support from Senator Johnson – to small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on hard hit sectors, such as hotels, restaurants, bars, barbershops and salons, and disproportionately impacted areas.

“Support is critical to the health of our small business community, and I encourage all able to do so to shop and dine locally,” Johnson said.

Visit the DCEO website for more information on the B2B program.

Johnson disheartened by attack on reproductive health care

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement in response to the leaked Supreme Court ruling that would overturn Roe v. Wade and threaten access to reproductive health care in the United States:

“Although Illinois has taken proactive steps to protect women’s reproductive rights, millions of women could be in danger should Roe v. Wade be overturned, and this regressive move would set our country back by more than five decades.

“Reproductive care is essential for women’s health, especially in underserved areas. I commit to continuing the fight against this injustice and supporting women through these intense times.”

Johnson: Budget is a win for all communities

SPRINGFIELD – Following the Illinois Senate’s approval of the FY 23 budget and tax relief plan, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement:

“Today we passed a strong and responsible budget that keeps Illinois on good financial footing and puts money back into the pockets of hardworking taxpayers.”

“The plan we approved invests nearly $2 billion in financial relief for families and includes more than $200 million for public safety measures.  Increased crime rates are plaguing all corners of our state, and this budget provides assistance to curb the issue – from investments into community-based programs to providing funding for law enforcement to receive more training and tools.

“In order to level the playing field, opportunities must be provided to everyone. This plan works to create better conditions for community well-being and prioritizes recovery and safety efforts for our state.”

“Additionally, we included a $350 million investment into our student’s success. We must prepare today's students for the greatest academic outcomes. By providing every student with a quality education, and the materials they need, we can help students from all backgrounds learn and thrive.”

“I stand in proud support of the budget we passed today and remain committed to creating new opportunities for all who reside in our communities.”

Johnson supports efforts to reduce crime in Illinois

 SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to reduce crime in Illinois, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) backed the Crime Reduction Task Force Act which works to establish recommendations to the General Assembly to better address the equity needs of local communities.

“Ensuring safety and security for all of Illinois’ residents is undoubtedly the highest obligation of government,” said Johnson. “This legislation looks to lean on not only law enforcement for the best approach, but seeks community and expert input as well.”

House Bill 4736 would create the Crime Reduction Task Force comprised of a bipartisan group including legislators, law enforcement, and legal and criminal justice professionals, as well as crime victims and witnesses. The task force would develop a plan of action to reduce crime across the state and report its findings to the General Assembly and the governor.

Additionally, the legislation would create a statewide anonymous tip hotline, a Violent Crime Witness Protection fund and Co-Responder Pilot Program for the police departments of East St. Louis, Peoria, Springfield and Waukegan.

“True public safety can be achieved if we properly collaborate with law enforcement and the community,” Johnson said. “We want to encourage individuals who witness crimes to feel safe when filing reports, but we must be sure to not put anyone’s safety in jeopardy.”

House Bill 4736 passed with bipartisan support and awaits the governor’s signature for final approval.