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Time is flying by because we're having fun! This month, we heard Governor JB Pritzker's proposal for the FY25 State Budget, worked on our legislative priorities, kicked off our new District 51 Fellowship program at our Youth Advisory Council, and attended some important events in the community.
Here is a look at what we've been up to for the past month in Springfield and in the district:
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Rep. Syed visiting her colleague Rep. Anthony DeLuca near his seat on the House Floor | |
They listen to the sponsor's arguments, testimony from people with lived experience, and advocacy organizations. The committee members then have the chance to ask questions of the bill sponsor and decide whether they will vote to pass the legislation out of committee. | |
Rep. Syed talking on the House Floor with neighboring Representative in the northwest suburbs, Rep. Mark Walker | |
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I passed two bills out of committee: House Bill 4804 and House Bill 4476.
HB4804 is a bill that allows private water utilities to use the information they have to contact residents immediately in the case of a water disruption event.
Water disruption events can pose a risk to an individual's health and safety. Residents deserve to be communicated to quickly.
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We believe the onus should be on water utility companies to communicate to their consumers so individuals can be fully informed about their water supply. | |
We also passed HB4476 out of committee, a bill that would establish a public awareness campaign about the health dangers of mold toxicity. For far too long, our state has not done all that it can to prevent disruptive health outcomes for folks who experience mold toxicity. This bill also requires mold remediation services to be registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health to ensure that remediation services are performed by those who are qualified to do so. We heard incredible personal and impactful testimony from people who have experienced mold toxicity first-hand, one of whom is a constituent in the 51st. We are excited to say that this bill has passed through committee and is going to the House floor for a vote! | |
A few more bills I'm excited to introduce to you... | |
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House Bill 5157 is in direct response to the water disruption event that occurred in parts of Hawthorn Woods and Kildeer this summer.
The legislation has three parts...
- Requires a referendum to sell a water system to water utility company. This is so that residents can have a say before a private water utility company buys up municipal water systems
- Switches the cost burden of new acquisitions away from residents and onto corporations
- Eliminates a surcharge called "Qualified Infrastructure Projects," or QIP, so that private utilities can no longer go around the Illinois Commerce Commission rate review process.
I believe that private water utilities should not be able to operate in a monopoly over water systems without the say of the people. And, they should not be allowed to use the QIP sucharge to their advantage.
That's why I believe this is crucial legislation to work on this session.
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House Bill 5292 was brought to our attention by local stakeholders who provide private scholarships to first-generation college students. This legislation aims to ensure that financial aid received from a higher ed institution is not reduced based on earned private scholarships. | |
Rep. Syed speaking with a colleague on the House Floor | |
Rep. Syed with members of the Illinois Asian American Legislative Caucus on the House Floor | |
As families in the 51st District continue celebrations to honor the beginning of the Year of the Dragon, I wish everyone a prosperous and joyous lunar new year! 🐉🧧 | |
State of the State Budget Address | |
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Last week, Governor Pritzker delivered his State of the State and Budget address, outlining the state’s proposed priorities for the upcoming year, and how far Illinois has come financially.
Passing a balanced budget that meets the needs of our communities is of the utmost importance. In recent years, we’ve cut debt, saved for the future, and restored Illinois to A-level credit – while still making smart investments in our schools, our health, and our communities. I look forward to working with my colleagues over the coming months to craft this proposal into the foundation for another year of fiscally sound growth and greater opportunities for my community and communities across Illinois.
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We hope to see you THIS Saturday, March 9 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce Expo for a day filled with performers, food trucks, raffles, and an opportunity to connect with local businesses, community-based organizations, and local government! | |
Our next office hours will take place on Monday, March 11 between 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Ela Area Public Library. Hope to see you there! | |
We officially launched the District 51 Fellow Program at our first Youth Advisory Council meeting! | |
This initiative is an exciting educational leadership program designed to allow students to work more closely with our district office and gain civic experience. If you are a student or know of someone who would be interested in joining the program, it's not too late! Please email pooja@repsyed.com as soon as possible! | |
It was a full house at our first YAC meeting! | |
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If you aren't able to become a District 51 Fellow, please still join us at our monthly Youth Advisory Council meetings.
Our second meeting will be held on Monday, March 25 at the Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 2 between 6 pm - 7 pm.
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Rep. Syed and other panelist at the ED-RED Legislative Dinner | |
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I enjoyed joining school district board members and my colleagues at the ED-RED Legislative Dinner at Stevenson High School where I participated in the Legislator Town Hall on Public Education. We discussed some top priorities for this year, including school safety, the teacher workforce shortage and how to support educators and administration!
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Presenting House Resolution 104 to our veterans... | | |
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Last session, the House of Representatives declared March 29, 2023 to be "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" in the State of Illinois. For far too long Vietnam veterans were not given the recognition that they deserve.
It was an honor to meet Guy Mylander, constituent of the 51st and Vietnam veteran to present House Resolution 104 on behalf of the House of Representatives.
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United Against Hate Screening of "Refuge" Panelist | |
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I was honored to attend the screening of “Refuge" alongside Cook County Commissioner Scott Britton. The documentary explored the unlikely friendship between a former white nationalist leader and a Muslim cardiologist.
We had an incredible turnout – over 100 people joined us! I had a great time serving as a panelist and engaging in meaningful dialogue with attendees on the importance of combating hatred within our communities.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an enriching experience and look forward to continuing to support the important work of fostering stronger and more unified communities.
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National Day of Racial Healing at Brightpoint | |
Rep. Syed reading a book to young children for National Day of Racial Healing on 02/14/24 | |
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Last month, I had the pleasure of meeting our cutest constituents!
I was invited by Brightpoint as a guest reader for their National Day of Racial Healing event. This day serves as a reminder that we should reflect every day on how to collectively strive for a more just and equitable world.
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I had fun reading books to two classrooms of children that emphasized fostering empathy, cultural appreciation, and a sense of belonging. Representation through literature plays an important role in development. When children see themselves reflected in stories across diverse genres, they feel empowered and gain a deeper understanding of their own identity and the world around them. 📚
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Congratulations to Lake Zurich District 95 on a big step forward! | |
Image of the new Young Adult Center on the day of the ribbon cutting | |
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This month, Lake Zurich District 95 School District opened its new Young Adult Center for students 18-22 years old. This is a transitional program for students with disabilities to continue their education and transition to adulthood.
A large crowd gathered on a beautiful day to celebrate!
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Board President Goldberg and Chief of Staff Megan Yerger at ribbon utting | |
This brand new building is located off of Mohawk Trail near Ela Area Public Library and the Lake Zurich Police Department. Congratulations District 95, and thank you for everything you do for our students! | |
I had the pleasure of meeting a few of our younger constituents at office hours, who had many questions about what a State Representative does. Their curiosity and enthusiasm remind me why I love being out in the community and cherish our office hours. | |
Rep. Syed talking with a young constituent at office hours on 02/12/24 | |
Rep. Syed talking with a young constituent at office hours on 02/12/24 | | |
United Palatine Coalition Wellness Resource Fair | |
Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 20th for a FREE, fun-filled day!
The United Palatine Coalition and the Buehler YMCA are co-hosting Healthy Kids Day and the Wellness Resource Fair with exciting workshops, screenings, fitness classes, food, fun activities, and giveaways!
This is a great event to familiarize yourself with community resources and services provided by local organizations.
We hope to see you there!
When: 9 AM on Saturday, April 20th
Where: Buehler YMCA, 1400 W Northwest Hwy, Palatine, IL 60067
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Lake Zurich Arbor Day Park Clean Up | |
Join us to help clean up parks in Lake Zurich!
The Village of Lake Zurich is hosting its annual Arbor Day park clean up where you and your friends and family can sign up to help clean up any of the 32 parks! 🌲
The kick-off will be at Paulus Park near the Barn with a tree planting ceremony by the Village Arborist and members of the Lake Zurich Tree Commission. Then, volunteers will depart for their assigned parks to clean up.
Click here to learn more and sign up.
When: Saturday, April 27 starting at 9 AM.
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Sustainable Living Presentation | |
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Learn how to make a difference this Earth Day by joining Palatine Cool Cities, the Palatine Public Library, and Clean Up - Give Back Palatine’s Earth Day presentation to learn more about actionable ideas for sustainable living! 🌎
When: April 22nd at 7:00 PM
Where: Palatine Library Main Branch, Meeting Room 1
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Community Updates and Resources | |
Local Municipalities received funding through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources's Open Spaces Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Program! | |
The Village of Lake Zurich received a $600,000 grant to enhance Paulus Park. The money will be used to improve the splash pad, rehabilitate the shoreline, add new game tables and additional amenities. | |
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The Village of Deer Park also received a $600,000 grant to revitalize its Town Center Park, including the addition of a new pickleball court!
We are excited to witness the transformations with new and improved green spaces for residents of all ages to enjoy!
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Financial aid opportunities ... | |
Women Empowered Businesses | |
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The Palatine Women Empowered Businesses (WEB) is accepting applications for their Female Student Scholarship! The scholarship will be awarded to two students attending Palatine or Fremd High School.
Application deadline is March 15, 2024.
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Treasurer Charitable Fund | |
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The Office of the Illinois State Treasurer is accepting applications for the Spring 2024 Grant Cycle. The grant is awarded to non-profit charitable programs in two categories: food and housing.
The application closes on Sunday, March 31.
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Palatine Historical Society Scholarship | |
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The Palatine Historical Society is now accepting applications from high school seniors for its annual Marilyn Pedersen Scholarship.
Don’t miss the deadline! Applications are due by Saturday, April 6!
Visit palatinehistoricalsociety.com to learn more.
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Tax Return Preparation Assistance | |
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Need assistance preparing for tax season? The Palatine Public Library has you covered! They are offering FREE tax return preparation assistance at the main library from AARP tax on Mondays, from February 5 to April 15 between 1 PM - 3:30 PM.
Click here to learn more and make an appointment.
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If you're a resident of Ela Township, take advantage of the Ela Area Public Library's partnership with AARP as well! The library is offering FREE tax assistance until Tuesday, April 9th.
Register for an appointment by calling 224-326-0605 and find additional information on their website.
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State Updates and Resources | |
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The Illinois Tollway, along with tollway agencies nationwide, is transitioning to sticker tags as an alternative to the battery-operated I-PASS transponder. Visit illinoistollway.com/about-ipass to check if your I-PASS Transponder is expiring and for more information on the sticker tags.
When disposing of your expired I-PASS transponder, it's important not to throw it in the trash as the batteries are toxic. For environmentally friendly disposal options, visit https://search.earth911.com/ to find a convenient recycling location. Alternatively, you can return your expired transponder to an Illinois Tollway Customer Service location.
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The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰
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The State Treasurer has 5 billion dollars in unclaimed property funds for Illinoisans. These funds are returned at no cost with the proper identification, but we need your help to get the money back in your hands. | |
Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. | |
The Illinois Department of Human Services is recruiting volunteers | |
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In September 2023, heavy rains caused flooding in several areas throughout Cook County. The Illinois Department of Human Services’ Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service is seeking volunteers to address the unique challenges that affected communities are facing.
If you are interested in volunteering, click here to learn more and to sign up.
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Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP | |
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The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025!
Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit.
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As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com.
With gratitude,
Nabeela
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