Hernandez Pledges to Prioritize COVID-19 Relief, Access to Health Care and Economic Recovery in New General Assembly

AURORA, Ill. – After being sworn in for the 102nd General Assembly on Wednesday, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, released the following statement:

“This past year has presented challenges that no person could have ever imagined, and while we can see a sliver of light at the end of the tunnel, we are not out of the woods just yet. The simple fact of the matter is that our state is in desperate need of COVID-19 relief. As we begin this new General Assembly, we must work together to build back a stronger Illinois by expanding access to health care, providing needed support to our businesses  and passing a balanced budget that addresses the needs of working- and middle-class families. 

“Tough decisions will need to be made to address the many issues facing Illinois, but I am prepared to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to finally move us in a more positive direction. I will continue to fight for better access to health care services and critical funding for care providers right here in our community. I will also prioritize economic recovery by ensuring resources for local business owners, investing in high-wage jobs that put our families back to work and securing assistance for displaced workers and those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic. 

“While Black and Brown communities have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and continue to face issues that have been exacerbated by this unprecedented health crisis, I also remain committed to addressing the systemic racism inherent in our health care and criminal justice systems, and fighting for equality and justice. 

“It is clear that more must be done to provide relief to those impacted by the pandemic, and it is critical that we continue our work to build a better future for all Illinois families. I look forward to representing our community and addressing the issues that matter most.”