Manley Highlights Efforts to Support Seniors, Increase Public Safety, and Passing a Responsible Budget as Legislative Session Adjourns

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – With the end of the legislative session coming to a close, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, reflected on the progress made in getting Illinois back on track after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“After this difficult year, my main goal this session was to help pass legislation that would make a substantial and positive impact on the lives of my constituents,” said Manley. “Over the last few months, I worked on and supported a number of bills that contributed to that goal. Through the budget and a number of other bills, we made real reforms that will strengthen the middle-class and help build our economy without leaving those impacted by the pandemic behind.”

Manley voted for a fiscally responsible budget that prioritizes critical services and the needs of those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, while cutting excess spending and paying down debt. This will help support those who have struggled over the past year while also making major progress towards fiscal stability.

“After a year in which the middle-class faced numerous economic challenges, I helped pass a budget that will provide relief to working families, seniors, small businesses, and others that have been hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Manley. “I am proud that we will be able to provide residents much needed relief while keeping our commitment to passing a responsible and sustainable budget.”

During the legislative session, Manley worked to increase public safety. She voted for legislation that would expand Illinois’ “Red Flag” laws, which allow family members to petition the courts to remove firearms from individuals who may use them to cause themselves or others harm. Manley also backed legislation protecting students from “quiet rooms,” which were used to lock students in a room for potentially hours at a time in order to discipline them.

“After a year in which safety and health was constantly in the forefront of our minds, it was critical to work on bills that would keep residents safe,” said Manley. “We were able to pass a number of bills that protect both physical and mental health.”

With seniors being heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Manley worked to provide them the support and relief they need. She supported legislation that requires nursing homes to provide seniors a virtual visit once per day during a government-declared disaster, keeping seniors safe while ensuring they are not isolated from their loved ones.

“While we made substantial progress, I know that there is still much more that needs to be done,” said Manley. “I look forward to meeting with residents over the next few months to get feedback on what issues they would like to see addressed. I am available in person or virtually depending on the comfort level of my constituents and I remain committed to working both in Springfield and in my district to ensure that the needs of residents are being met.”