SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Fran Hurley, D-Chicago, issued the following statement on Wednesday after being sworn in for a new term:
“We can see that a brighter future lies ahead for Illinois. As we enter a new term, I will continue working in a bipartisan manner to tackle the toughest issues facing our state.
“Among my top priorities is to ensure we are taking better care of our law enforcement officers and first responders. The number of suicides among first responders currently outpaces line-of-duty deaths. This is troubling and heartbreaking, and must be addressed. I welcome input from officers, their family members and the community as we work together to improve officer safety and wellness.
“We must also enact meaningful property tax relief to make home ownership more affordable for middle-class families and seniors. Elderly residents who are long-term home owners are losing money from requirements to re-apply every year for their property tax exemptions. This is another issue I intend to address legislatively in the weeks to come.
“Equally important as my work in Springfield is making myself accessible to the residents of my district. I am already building a calendar of events for the year, including a combination of new ideas and familiar standbys like ‘coffee and conversation’ meetings with constituents. Through events, walking door-to-door, and extended and satellite office hours, I hope to hear from as many residents as possible so as to effectively represent their thoughts and viewpoints at the Capitol. Many difficult decisions will be made in the next two years, and I remain committed to serving the people of our community.”
