SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement after hearing the governor’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2024:

“I share the governor’s commitment to strengthening Illinois’ education system from cradle to college.  Education is a fundamental right that will empower our youth starting at an early age. Not only would the proposed budget provide our students with more opportunities, it would also alleviate the burden surrounding the teacher shortage.”

“Further, homelessness is a pervasive issue in our state that has been long overlooked. I am pleased the budget proposal includes funding for services to assist people and families who need it most.”

WAUKEGAN – The Illinois EPA announced more than $50,000 is heading to Waukegan to help the city identify service lines that may contain lead.

“Minimizing the risk of lead exposure among children and families is a prerequisite of supplying safe drinking water,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “These funds will create a level of security and comfort for many families.”

Senator Johnson voted for the legislation creating the Lead Service Line Replacement Notification Act in 2021. The Lead Service Line Replacement Notification Act establishes timelines and requirements for the removal and replacement of all lead service lines in Illinois and creates a low-income water assistance program to help fund financial assistance and water projects that include lead pipe replacement.

Illinois has more lead service lines than any other state in the nation, with an estimated 730,000 to 1.4 million lead service lines in the ground. There is no safe level of exposure to lead.

“This funding will provide many communities with the necessary funding to develop a complete inventory identifying the types of water lines that exist in their drinking water supplies,” said Illinois EPA Director John Kim.

To see a full list of Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI) Grants, click here.

WAUKEGAN – Advancements will take place in Lake County expanding construction and building trades thanks to State Senator Adriane Johnson’s effort in securing nearly $300,000 in investments.

“I am proud to know that Illinois’ continued progress mirrors the expansion of opportunities for our youth and residents through programs such as the Illinois Works Pre- Apprenticeship,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “Our youth and residents of all ages deserve options that will provide their futures with stability and expand career options.”

Senator Johnson has emphasized the importance of funding programs that will provide diversity and representation for women and people of color throughout the state. The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship was created to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and use of apprentices in state-funded capital projects. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure long-term employment.

A total of $13 million for the program’s second year will expand access to the program across the state and will serve up to 1,400 pre-apprentices – a 40% increase from the program’s inaugural year. A total of $300,000 is awarded to Youthbuild Lake County in North Chicago.

“Trade programs further enhances the growth of our community, while creating job opportunities,” Johnson said. “It is imperative that we continue to support programs that create spaces for women and people of color to achieve their goals and pursue careers where representation has not always been provided.”

Participants of the program attend tuition-free and receive a stipend and other supportive, barrier-reduction services to help enter the construction industry. Upon completion of the program, pre-apprentices receive industry aligned certifications to prepare and qualify them to a registered apprenticeship program in one of the trades.

Information on the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program can be found here.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson was appointed to serve as chair of the Senate Education Committee for the 103rd General Assembly.

“Improving our education systems to become more equitable and safer has always been a top priority of mine,” said Johnson. “Together, as a committee, we will bring forth measures that will further develop and improve our education system for our students, teachers, and families.”

Senator Johnson has advocated for issues surrounding education throughout her entire career. Her voice has played a profound role in leading measures that will improve the experiences of many students and teachers.

During her time with the Senate, she has championed a bill that prioritizes the demonstration of inclusivity, safety, and equality in our schools through The Whole Child Task Force. She also established a measure for school boards to waive fees for students whose parent is a veteran or active military member with an income below the poverty line.

The Senate Education Committee hears legislation that affects public and private schools throughout the state.

Johnson has been recognized for her persistent support surrounding education over the years. Recently, she received an award for supporting programs to help young people pursue their education, and prepare for their future.

“Students will one day contribute to our society as teachers, doctors, community leaders and more,” said Johnson. “It’s vital we set them up for success from day one. I vow to do that as chair of the Senate Education Committee.”

Committee schedules and live streamed proceedings are available at www.ilga.gov.