Manley Heads Into Legislative Session, Outlines Priorities Ahead

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – With the start of a new legislative session, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is focused on delivering meaningful solutions for families facing rising costs, ensuring access to affordable healthcare, and strengthening community support systems.

“The upcoming months will be our opportunity as lawmakers to address everyday challenges head-on, working collaboratively across the aisle to ensure we’re supporting the best solutions possible to meet our communities' needs,” said Manley. “As costs rise, families are working harder than ever to provide for loved ones, and short-term solutions aren’t keeping up. The hard work to alleviate these burdens begins now, and it will take all voices coming together to move our communities forward.”

Manley led successful efforts last year to help families manage rising costs and strained household budgets, including cracking down on pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to make prescription drugs more affordable, capping out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, and expanding protections for caregivers. Looking forward, Manley aims to make transformative strides that bolster public safety, improve local schools, and offer targeted tax relief.

“Investing in our communities allows our residents to have the tools and resources they need to thrive and build a stable future,” said Manley.

“Whether it’s lowering healthcare costs, improving economic opportunities, or addressing critical safety concerns, my focus remains on creating a state where everyone can succeed,” said Manley. “We need long-term solutions that provide stability, equity, and opportunity for all families. The goal is clear — by listening to our neighbors’ needs, deliberating comprehensive solutions, and working together, we can deliver results that make Illinois better for every resident.