Avelar Attends COVID-19 Policy Panel at Lewis University

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, visited Lewis University to be a part of the COVID-19 policy panel sponsored by the Lewis University’s Political Science Club to provide a legislative perspective on COVID-19 policies in Illinois.

“In the past two years, the General Assembly worked quickly on our feet to provide relief for those impacted by the pandemic. The policies we passed can be used or adapted for future public health crises such as emergency rental assistance, small business loans and unemployment benefits,” Avelar said. “The public deserves to know what their state legislature is doing to serve their communities during these unprecedented times.”

Avelar attended the COVID-19 policy panel sponsored by Lewis University’s Political Science Club on Nov. 30 to offer insight on Illinois policies regarding COVID-19 and the effects of the pandemic on economic redevelopment and social inequalities. Avelar joined alongside Dr. Nancy Reiland, Will/Kendall County Board of Health member, and Dr. John Bolden, Infectious Disease Specialist. The dialogue included participation from club members and the event was open to all students.

“These discussions are important because they show the legislative process and it provides transparency. Students were one of the groups hit the hardest by the pandemic, and many of them are still adjusting,” Avelar said. “I heard many concerns and plenty of ideas. These students provided an intellectual conversation and their voices should not be underestimated. I will continue working with my colleagues and the health experts this upcoming session to protect my community.”