SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul today issued a statement clarifying that President Trump’s chaotic and confusing executive order restricting access to lawful health care for transgender youth and young adults has no impact on access in Illinois and reinforcing his and thirteen other Attorneys Generals’ commitment to fight efforts to interfere with access to life saving health care in our state. The House Dobbs Working Group is grateful to AG Raoul and his partners in 13 states for recognizing the importance of reinforcing our commitment to protecting the LGBTQ+ community from the hateful attacks coming from the administration.

“AG Raoul has been a steadfast partner in our working group’s efforts to establish meaningful protections for reproductive and gender affirming care since day one. His statement today provides critical reassurance to patients, families, and providers who are understandably frightened and confused as we’ve seen facilities around the country comply in advance with these outrageous orders without a fight,” said Working Group Chair Kelly Cassidy. “Taken alongside yesterday’s reassurance from Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, it’s a clear message that at this point the words in the EO are simply that.”

Families and providers are encouraged to follow reliable resources, such as Advocates for Trans Equality, for updates as the situation evolves and the administration takes steps to implement it. House Dobbs Working Group members:

Dagmara Avelar – 85th district

“In Illinois, we continue to protect women and all people who are seeking reproductive and gender affirming care. The Trump administration continues to reduce rights to minorities, women, and the LGBTQ+ community, but the House Dobbs Working Group will continue to assure all Illinois residents that they are seen and protected. In this state, healthcare, whether it be reproductive or gender affirming, will continue to be provided to the communities and people who need them because it’s a necessary service to live happy healthy lives.”

Mary Beth Canty – 54th district

“During my time in the Dobbs Working Group, Attorney General Raoul has been a great ally fighting the radical interest groups looking to curtail access to essential healthcare. Our approach as lawmakers has to be policy-focused, but not neglectful of the need for clear and prompt communication,” said Rep. Mary Beth Canty. “Fear and doubt regarding the rights to personal freedom and bodily autonomy can do serious damage. Reassurances like Attorney General Raoul’s are vital to the common good.”

Terra Costa Howard – 42nd district

“Personal health decisions should be made by patients in consultation with their healthcare teams,” said Rep. Terra Costa Howard. “There is no place for government interference in these private decisions, and I am proud that the State of Illinois is standing up against this Administration’s attacks on our fundamental rights.”

Margaret Croke – 12th district

“While the Trump administration lacks regard for human impact, here in Illinois, we’re fighting for what’s best for our residents. That means continuing to protect the rights of the many patients and families who rely on reproductive and gender-affirming care, which not only allows people to authentically be their best selves, but also in many cases, saves lives,” said Rep. Margaret Croke.

Kim duBuclet – 5th district

“While Washington tries to strip away fundamental rights and dignity, we’re moving Illinois in a better direction,” DuBuclet said. “They may do everything in their power to take away a person’s right to control their own body, but we remain committed to protecting gender-affirming care so that everyone can live with dignity and fulfillment.”

Lilian Jimenez – 4th district

“I applaud the Attorney General’s efforts to defend the right to essential lifesaving medical treatment in Illinois,” Rep. Lilian Jiménez said. “President Trump’s attacks on trans and queer youth are cruel, but the cruelty is the point. His abuse of executive power to strip away healthcare access, particularly for those seeking gender affirming care, is yet another calculated assault on our communities. I am committed to confronting these injustices head on and defending the right to lifesaving medical care. Access to affordable, high-quality care is already a significant challenge for everyday working families, and we will not allow this to continue. More work can, must, and will be done.”

Gregg Johnson – 72nd district

“The right to make medical decisions – without interference from politicians – is under attack in this country once again. Trump’s callous executive order targets some of the most vulnerable kids in our communities and it has no place in our state,” said state Rep. Gregg Johnson, D-Rock Island. “I’m proud to be working with Attorney General Raoul and the rest of my colleagues to craft a future where medical decisions in Illinois are kept safe from political interference.”

Anna Moeller – 43rd district

“It’s unfortunate, but sadly unsurprising, that rather than using the ‘bully pulpit’ to lead, President Trump is instead using it just to be a bully,” said Rep. Anna Moeller. “Here in Illinois, we’re not having it, and I’m looking forward to continuing to stand shoulder to shoulder with AG Raoul and my colleagues in the House to keep our state safe and supportive for all.”

Yolonda Morris – 9th district

“Everyone has the right to make choices about their bodies,” Rep. Yolonda Morris said. “Ensuring that young people have access to a full range of care is critical not only to their wellbeing, but to the compassionate communities we aim to build.”

Kevin Olickal – 16th district

“Trans people have always existed – and always will,” said Rep. Kevin Olickal. “Attacks on their access to safety and healthcare only fuel fear and harm, making an already vulnerable community even more unsafe. I remain an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and will always advocate for their right to live safely and openly.”

Ann Williams – 11th district

“I am proud to have worked on landmark protections for those seeking and providing reproductive care in the state of Illinois, including blocking out of state prosecutors from criminally charging individuals crossing state lines and codifying coverage of reproductive and HIV treatment medications,” Rep. Ann Williams said. “There’s no doubt that the next four years will put our ability to safeguard reproductive care to the test. Along with the Dobbs Working Group, I am committed to creating accessible and affordable reproductive healthcare at home and taking the fight to those who would take us back.”

And Jehan Gordon-Booth – 92nd district

Attorney General Raoul’s Statement:

https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-reaffirms- commitment-to-protecting-access-to-gender-affirming-care

Lurie Children’s Hospital Statement:

GENDER CARE

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is proud to provide access to comprehensive, family-centric, and developmentally appropriate healthcare in a safe and inclusive clinical space. We are reviewing the recent Executive Orders addressing gender care and assessing any potential impact to the clinical services we offer to our patient families.

Our team will continue to advocate for access to medically necessary care, grounded in science and compassion for the patient-families we are so privileged to serve.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, issued the following statement Wednesday after Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave his annual budget address:

“As I listened to the Governor’s budget address today, I felt proud of the great progress that we have made together in putting our state on a solid fiscal foundation, as proven by our nine credit upgrades over the past five years. As we get to work on this new budget, I’m going to keep standing up for our public schools, advocating for increased mental health services, and protecting our reproductive freedom. I know that the people of our communities will demand a balanced budget that reflects our shared values, and I am committed to making sure their voices are heard in Springfield.”

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – House Democrats on the House Adoption & Child Welfare Committee, led by state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, issued the following statement Thursday after Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Director Marc Smith announced his intention to step down at the end of the year.

“Our state government has no higher duty than to protect the children of Illinois. Throughout his tenure as Director of DCFS, Marc Smith has consistently expressed his compassion for the children and families that he serves. Although the Department continues to face serious challenges, we want to thank Director Smith for his years of service and his sincere dedication to Illinois families.

“Going forward, our Committee will continue to demand accountability from DCFS leadership. Working together, we must find new and effective strategies to improve this agency and ensure that all of the children in our care receive the advocacy and protection they deserve.”

Members of the House Adoption & Child Welfare Committee include state Rep. Kimberly du Buclet, D-Chicago, state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, state Rep. Margaret Croke, D-Chicago, state Rep. Norma Hernandez, D-Melrose Park, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, state Rep. Suzanne Ness, D-Crystal Lake, and state Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago.

 

LOMBARD, Ill. –To assist local families during Diaper Need Awareness Week, state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, is collecting donations of diapers and other baby supplies to benefit Outreach House, a Lombard-based non-profit that provides essential items for infant care.

“Diapers are a daily necessity for babies and toddlers, but many young families simply can’t afford enough diapers to keep their little ones clean, dry and healthy,” Costa Howard said. “Just by donating a box of diapers, we can make a real difference in the life of a child.”

Diaper Need Awareness Week, which begins Monday, Sept. 27, was created to bring public attention to diaper need and its impact on families. To support local participation, Costa Howard is hosting a donation drive to benefit Outreach House, which provides “baby basics” to local low-income families with children under 4 years old.

Outreach House is requesting donations of disposable diapers in sizes 3, 4 and 5, baby wipes, baby wash and shampoo, lotion, and diaper cream.

Donations can be brought to Costa Howard’s district office, at 913 S. Main St. in Lombard, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 27 through Friday, Oct. 1. Donations to Outreach House also can be made online by visiting their Amazon.com wish list, at https://amzn.to/3yhk9Wp.

“No family should have to choose between putting food on the table and buying diapers,” Costa Howard said. “The past year and a half has been so difficult for so many families in our communities. If you can afford to donate just one box of diapers or a single bottle of baby shampoo, you can help make a parent’s life less stressful and bring some comfort and security to a baby in need.”

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LOMBARD – People who sell vape pens or electronic cigarettes to anyone under 21 years old are now facing tougher penalties under new laws supported by state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn.

“Tobacco products are unhealthy for everyone, especially youth,” said Costa Howard. “Unfortunately, vape pens and other electronic devices have sometimes been marketed as safe alternatives to cigarettes, which can mislead young people. These new laws will protect our youth from deceptive marketing of these unhealthy products.”

Electronic cigarettes, or “e-cigarettes,” are defined as products that use a battery or other mechanism to heat a substance that produces vapor or aerosol intended for inhalation, including vape pens and electronic pipes.

Senate Bill 512 prohibits the use of cartoons and characters from video games, tv shows, movies, and other youth-oriented media to promote e-cigarette products. It also forbids sellers from marketing e-cigarettes as low-risk products. Senate Bill 555 amends the Substance Use Disorder Act to include vape shops, allowing the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) to check to make sure sellers are complying with the state’s minimum purchasing age. Costa Howard voted for both bills, which were recently signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker.

“Under these new laws, e-cigarette manufacturers will be prohibited from targeting our youth, and the Department of Human Services will have new enforcement power to protect Illinois young people from unscrupulous sellers,” said Costa Howard. “We all can be proud that Illinois is taking action to safeguard our young people from these unhealthy products.”

LOMBARD – To put an end to period poverty among people experiencing homelessness in Illinois, state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, backed a new law that will require shelters to provide free tampons and menstrual pads to the people they serve.     

“Women and youth who are experiencing homelessness must already overcome so many obstacles in their daily lives,” said Costa Howard. “The added expense of buying menstrual products creates yet another financial burden on individuals who are already struggling, making it difficult or impossible for them to care for their own basic needs.”

Costa Howard passed House Bill 310, the Feminine Hygiene Products for the Homeless Act, to require housing shelters to provide free period products. The bipartisan legislation was signed into law by Governor Pritzker earlier this month.

Costa Howard’s bill came after NBC reported that tampons and pads are among the items that are most often requested by people living in shelters – yet these products are rarely donated.

“I am so glad that people are starting to talk about this important issue,” continued Costa Howard. “Period poverty is a reality for many, many people, and it causes additional distress for people who are experiencing homelessness. I hope that people in Illinois will take note of this new law and add period products to the lists of items they donate to their local housing shelters.”

LOMBARD – Attorneys, doctors, and other professionals may be included in the state board that sets child welfare policy, reviews child protection standards, and investigates complaints against child welfare workers under a new bill, sponsored by state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, and passed by the Illinois House.

“As an attorney, I am often appointed by the courts to serve as a guardian ad litem to protect the interests of children who may have been abused or neglected,” Costa Howard said. “I know from my personal experience that lawyers, doctors, and other professionals can offer important perspectives in child welfare cases. It makes sense to allow these highly trained, experienced people to serve on the Child Welfare Employee Licensing (CWEL) Board.”

The nine members of the CWEL board are appointed by the DCFS director. Under current law, five of the members must be licensed human services professionals. The bill, HB 19, would allow the director to appoint lawyers, doctors, or public administrators to those seats as well.

“The CWEL board provides oversight for thousands of licensed child welfare professionals throughout Illinois,” said Costa Howard. “This bill will expand the board’s expertise in important ways, so I hope the Senate and Governor will do their part in making this needed reform a reality.”

LOMBARD – Hourly workers employed by Illinois public schools, community colleges, and state universities will qualify sooner for Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) coverage under new legislation sponsored by state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn and passed by the Illinois House.

“The federal FMLA recognizes that working people should have the right to take a leave of absence when they are seriously ill, when a family member has a major health issue, or when they are taking care of a new baby,” Costa Howard said. “Under federal rules, most workers are eligible for family leave after a calendar year of full-time employment. Unfortunately, the structure of school calendars has meant that many hourly employees of public school systems had to wait almost a year and a half before they were eligible. This law will extend FMLA coverage to those workers after 12 months of full-time employment.“

House Bill 12 extends FMLA coverage to workers who have been employed by a school district, public university, or community college for at least 12 months and who have worked at least 1,000 hours. The legislation passed with strong bipartisan support in the Illinois House on April 14 and now awaits passage in the Illinois Senate.

“I’m very proud that the Illinois House is standing up for dedicated school district and college workers in our state,” Costa Howard said. “I hope the Illinois Senate will move quickly to improve access to FMLA for these hard-working employees, and I look forward to the day when the Governor will sign this bill into law.”

LOMBARD – State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, is showcasing the artwork of Lombard students by hosting a virtual art show on Facebook for Student Art Month.

“Before the COVID-19 pandemic, my office always displayed artwork from schools around the district, with a new school show every month,” Costa Howard said. “Unfortunately, our walls haven’t been as bright over the past year. So I deeply appreciate the efforts of the art department of Glenn Westlake Middle School in Lombard to help us put up this new virtual show, and I will be displaying their students’ beautiful art for the entire month of April.”

The art show will be posted on Costa Howard’s website, at reptch48.com, and on her Facebook page, State Rep. Terra Costa Howard (@RepTCH48).

“When we began this student art program, we always launched each new show with an open house, inviting families to come in and see their children’s artwork on full display,” Costa Howard said. “Although we will miss sharing these events with families, we hope these young artists will feel just as proud of their great work when they see our online show. We are grateful for this opportunity to celebrate these young artists virtually, and we look forward eagerly to the day when we can express our appreciation in person once again.”

LOMBARD – State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, is urging women in the 48^th district to apply for the Conference of Women Legislators (COWL) scholarship, which provides up to $2,500 in funding to help women over 25 who are going back to college.

The deadline to apply for the COWL scholarship is May 1. Applications may be submitted online at www.COWLIL.com.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating financial impact on many older college students who were working to complete their educations,” Costa Howard said. “We hope that the COWL scholarship will make it easier for women in Illinois to get back on track, return to school, and achieve their career ambitions.”

COWL is a non-profit, bipartisan organization of current and former female legislators. The COWL scholarship is intended for undergraduate women 25 years of age or older. The one-year scholarship provides up to $2,500 in funding for tuition, books, and fees. Up to 10 COWL scholarships will be awarded for the 2021-2022 academic year.

Scholarship applicants are required to enroll in an Illinois-accredited college or university for a minimum of six credit hours; scholarships are available to part-time and online students. Scholarship awardees will be notified by Tuesday, June 1. Awardees must provide official transcripts before the scholarship funds will be released.

“As a member of COWL, I am so proud that we are helping to open the classroom doors for Illinois women,” Costa Howard said. “I hope women in our communities who are heading back to school will apply for these scholarships and get valuable assistance as they work toward their goals.”