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.

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.