Blair-Sherlock Takes Oath, Begins General Assembly Focused on Supporting Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, D-Villa Park, issued the following statement Wednesday after being sworn in for her first full term:

“As we begin a new General Assembly, families are looking toward Springfield to deliver real results that support reproductive freedoms, target gun violence and address economic concerns.

“Many residents are still hurting from the pandemic, and it’s important that we strengthen critical state services that help people get back on their feet. Responsible, balanced budgets in recent years have enabled Illinois to receive needed credit upgrades and have eliminated bad debt. We must maintain this good stewardship, and properly utilize the financial flexibility it can offer.

“It’s key that we prioritize funding for our classrooms, job training programs and local infrastructure in order to attract high-paying jobs. We must also take a comprehensive approach toward public safety that supports violence intervention programs and our local law enforcement who work hard every day to make our communities safer.

“In a post-Dobbs environment, we must recognize that states are the last line of defense when it comes to reproductive freedoms. Illinois has become the Midwest’s leader in reproductive health, and I will do all that I can to protect the essential health care rights that patients and providers deserve.

“I am thankful and appreciative that the residents of the 46th District have placed their trust in me. There will be challenges, but together we can do a lot of great things for the families who call our community home.”