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April showers might be coming down these last couple of days, but they haven't stopped us from getting some exciting work done.
This past month, we made progress on our legislative priorities, our office attended our first community expo of the year, and we met our new District 51 Fellowship cohort!
In this month’s newsletter, we’ll cover the need-to-know about session, talk about our district office highlights, and give you a glimpse of what's to come. Don't forget to read to the end to see current resources from the community and state which may benefit you and your neighbors.
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Reflecting on
Women's History Month
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I want to introduce you to some of the incredible women of the 103rd General Assembly and District 51... | |
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Meet the first Black woman to serve as the State Representative for the 92nd District AND the Chief Budgeteer for Illinois, Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth!
Leader Gordon-Booth is an advocate for criminal legal reform and economic development. As the Chief Budgeteer, she oversees the state's budgeting process, leads negotiations, and works to ensure that Illinois remains a financially responsible state.
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Introducing this trailblazing woman who made history as the first Asian-American in the Illinois General Assembly eight years ago, Representative Theresa Mah. It's astonishing to reflect on the fact that until 2016, there was no state legislator representing Asian Americans who shared their cultural identity.
Representative Mah continues to pave the way for all Illinoisans through her unwavering dedication to civil rights, immigrant rights, and language equity.
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I had the honor of defending HB4180 in the Insurance committee along with a constituent of District 51.
Leslie, CEO of My Density Matters, reached out about the need to improve access to breast cancer screenings, especially for women with dense breast tissue.
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HB4180, which expands insurance coverage to molecular breast imaging, was passed out of committee thanks to her testimony. The goal of this legislation is to make breast cancer screening more accessible by requiring an additional form to be covered by insurance! |
And of course, our wonderful women-run district office. We love to celebrate all the achievements women have made to better our community. | |
Additional Legislative Updates | |
Rep Syed welcoming visitors in the House Gallery to Springfield | |
Our deadline for passing bills through committee is today, Friday, April 5th. That means the next step is for these bills to be voted on by the rest of the House of Representatives before moving on to the Senate. Here are some more bills that passed out of committee since the last time I updated you... | |
HB4144 Passed the Energy & Environment Committee ✔️ | |
This bill requires public water utilities to notify fire departments and dispatch centers in the case of a water disruption event. This common-sense piece of legislation was introduced because of a real concern in our district and it aims to increase fire safety protections and support our first responders in doing their critical jobs. | | | |
HB5459 Passed the Public Utilities Committee ✔️ | |
This bill helps to ensure that sanitary districts have reliable water usage data to prepare their billings by codifying into law that, upon request of a sanitary district, water utilities provide that data in an accurate and timely fashion. | | | |
HB1168 Passed Judicial-Criminal Committee ✔️ | |
House Bill 1168 would prohibit the DNA profiles of victims from being submitted into any DNA database. Though federal law prohibits the use of victims’ DNA in national databases, Illinois doesn’t provide the same protection at the state level. Instead, under current law, law enforcement agencies are allowed to use the DNA profiles of victims in databases that allow them to be compared to evidence retrieved from unrelated crime scenes. This bill would prohibit the DNA profiles of victims from being submitted to a DNA database so more victims of crime can get the care and justice they need. | | | |
I had the pleasure of welcoming many visitors to Springfield this month... | | |
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Grateful to Dave and Leslie for making the trip to Springfield to testify on breast cancer screening access 💗
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This was my page for the day, Annette! Annette is a student at Stevenson HS and a constituent in the 51st District. She joined me on the House floor when she visited Springfield with several of her classmates.
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I loved running into two of my favorite AARP advocates in Springfield who spoke to me about creating a caregiver portal that would be a one-stop shop for family caregivers to obtain resources.
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I was glad to chat with our local law enforcement about some of their priorities this legislative session and to understand what district-specific needs we have. We decided to make this selfie an annual tradition! | |
District 51 Highlights & Events | |
Meet our District 51 Fellows! | |
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From healthcare equity to criminal justice reform to gun safety, we dove into what issues gets these students passionate and civically engaged.
Thank you to all the enthusiastic students who joined us! We look forward to many fruitful meetings with this group.
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Can't commit to being a District 51 Fellow but still want to get involved? | Our next Youth Advisory Council meeting will be held on Monday, April 29th at the Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 2 between 6 pm - 7 pm. |
Catalyst Legislative Luncheon | |
I was delighted to attend Catalyst's first Legislative Lunch alongside municipal, state, and federal officials. We had the opportunity to listen to middle and high school students share their experiences and discuss policy ideas about protecting youth.
Students passionately advocated for expanding the vape flavor ban as a strategy to prevent vaping and encourage healthy decision-making in young people.
Thank you to Stevenson High School for hosting the first of many Catalyst Legislative Lunches.
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Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce Community Expo | Community events are truly a rewarding experience because we get the opportunity to engage with constituents and share valuable information about district happenings. We discussed the bills I filed this legislative session, what constituents' top concerns are, our upcoming events, and more. | |
Rep. Syed talking with a constituent at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 | |
Rep. Syed shaking hands with a constituent at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 | |
Rep. Syed talking to a family of four at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 | |
A big thank you to everyone at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for their hard work in organizing this wonderful community event! Looking forward to next year already. 🥳 | |
Rep. Syed excitedly posing with a thumbs up in front of her table at Suhoor Fest on 3/29/24 | |
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Thank you to The Illinois Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Islamic Society of the Northwest Suburbs for hosting the first Suhoor Fest at Rolling Meadows's new Masjid!
Suhoor is a pre-dawn meal for those observing Ramadan before they begin their day-long fast. It was amazing to be able to celebrate with so many residents and strengthen our connection with the community!
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Rep. Syed with Rep. Rashid and his kids at Suhoor Fest on 3/29 | |
A highlight for me was engaging with our younger constituents by sharing facts about Illinois and discussing the role of a legislator. | |
Rep. Syed with a group of constituents at Suhoor Fest on 3/29 | |
Rep. Syed with a group of kids at Suhoor Fest spinning a mini prize wheel on 3/29 | |
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As Ramadan approaches its final two weeks, Suhoor Fest has enriched our sense of community during this time, and I eagerly anticipate what else lies ahead until Eid.
Our District Office wishes all those who celebrate a blessed month. Ramadan Mubarak! 🌙
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Reminder: 2024 Solar Eclipse just DAYS AWAY! 🌑 ☀️
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On Monday, April 8th there will be a solar eclipse that goes through our state! To raise awareness and promote eye health safety, the Illinois Optometric Association supplied our office with 1,000 eclipse glasses! 🕶️
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We officially handed off our last batch of eclipse glasses to our cutest constituent! Thank you to everyone who came by our office to collect yours, we had a blast handing them out.
And, we send our sincerest gratitude to the Illinois Optometric Association for providing such an important and fun giveaway. Wishing everyone a safe and exciting solar eclipse viewing on Monday!
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Find information about watching the solar eclipse in Southern Illinois by clicking on the link.
Harper College is also hosting a community viewing (information below!)
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WE ARE HOSTING A COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE! 📢📢📢 | |
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Many patients are also more likely to find a better match when they receive blood transfusions from individuals of similar ethnic backgrounds. Donating blood is a powerful way for our community to rally around these patients and save lives.
Our blood drive with Versiti will be held on Saturday, May 4th from 10:00 am - 2:30 pm at the Ela Area Public Library!
Please email pooja@repsyed.com with any questions.
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United Palatine Coalition's Annual Wellness Resource Fair 🌸 | |
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This FREE, fun-filled day will include 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.
The fair will be held on Saturday, April 20th from 9 am - 12 pm at the Buehler YMCA!
Our office will have a table, and we hope to see you there!
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Rep. Syed's Monthly Office Hours 📚 | | |
Lake Zurich Arbor Day Park Clean Up 🌳 | |
We are excited to join the Village of Lake Zurich again this year in celebrating Arbor Day with a park clean-up!
Here's a picture from last year...
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Rep Syed. helping plant a tree for Arbor Day 2023 | |
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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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The CEO and Founder of Mission:MathMinds, was awarded the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award in the category of Outstanding Youth Volunteer!
These awards recognize individual volunteers through a statewide award program to highlight the importance of volunteerism and community service in the State of Illinois.
Congratulations to Ruby for this well-deserved recognition! Our office is extremely grateful for her dedication to serving our community!
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Community Updates and Resources | |
College scholarship opportunity for youth who experienced homelessness | |
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The Chicago Coalition For The Homeless 2024 Scholarship awards $4,000 per year to five graduating high school seniors who experienced homelessness while in school and have been admitted or enrolled in a 2 or 4 year college or university for 2024-2025 school year. The award is for $4,000 per year.
Applications are due by May 10th!
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The Illinois Psychiatric Society’s Carl C. Bell, MD Memorial Award Essay Competition is now open to all high school students!
The award recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, their essay will be presented at the 2024 IPS Annual Meeting, and published in the official IPS newsletter publication. Second and third place award recipients will receive a $250 cash prize.
Submissions are due by June 1st!
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Palatine Fire Department’s Smoke Alarm Program 🚒 | |
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The Palatine Fire Department’s smoke alarm program is a no-cost, needs-based endeavor, with the goal that at-risk and at-need residents are protected in the event of a fire.
Palatine residents with limited financial means, disability, seniors, and those unable to install their alarms because of other physical limitations can qualify for free smoke alarms, while supplies last.
Call (847) 202-6310 or email smokealarms@palatine.il.us with your name, address, and phone number to participate in the program.
Visit the website here for more information.
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While you tackle your spring cleaning, consider donating your gently used clothes, shoes, jackets, purses, accessories, and household items.
Contribute to this annual event on Sunday, April 14th at Daisy’s Ice Cream in Palatine from 5 pm - 9 pm.
Learn more about Wings by visiting their website, and stay up to date on the Palatine Chapter of March for Our Lives on their Instagram page.
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State Updates and Resources | |
April is Financial Literacy Month! 💰 | |
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Springs towards a brighter financial future by checking out resources from The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office Financial Wellness Hub, which includes …
- Affording a home
- Planning for retirement
- Understanding Social Security benefits
- Moving past debt toward savings.
Create a secure and free account here to complete a checkup, and receive personalized recommendations about how you can get a better handle on your own.
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Introducing: The Department of Early Childcare | |
This survey from the Illinois Department of Early Childcare provides an opportunity for individuals, particularly for parents and early child care providers, to ask questions and offer input regarding the transition process. The vision is to create a future where Illinois stands as the best state in the nation for families raising young children. | |
Job Fair: Work for Illinois! | |
Curious about what opportunities are available with the State of Illinois? Visit the Work for Illinois 2024 Job Fair on Saturday, April 6th from 10 am - 1 pm at India Hub located at 930 National Parkway, Schaumburg. | |
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The following are the confirmed Agencies:
- Department of Public Health
- Department of Family and Child Service
- Department of Human Services
- Department of Innovation and Technology
- Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
- Department of Transportation
- Department of Juvenile Justice
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- Illinois Tollway
- Illinois State Police
- Department of Central Management Services
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Trade Ally Development Program Application is Open! | |
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TAD Program is a fully virtual, paid program for individual contractors and small business owners working in the energy efficiency trade within the natural gas industry.
TAD can help with the diverse vendor certification process with the state, marketing/social media, accounting/bookkeeping, administrative work, lead development, and more to help a contracting business grow and thrive.
Many individuals who complete the TAD Program go on to become members of our Nicor Gas Contractor Circle, which allows them to be added to customer-accessible databases of preferred/recommended energy efficiency service contractors and allows them to promote other programs and offerings.
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Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!
The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.
Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.
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Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program | |
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The U.S Department of Defense launched the Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program!
This grant will fund programs that improve the capacity of education systems and communities to create impactful STEM educational experiences for students and teachers and prepare the 21st century STEM workforce.
Apply by June 16th!
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IDOT’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure | |
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The Illinois Department of Transportation will fund up to 80% of the eligible costs associated with upgrading existing EV charging sites or establishing new sites along Alternative Fuel Corridors. This round of NEVI seeks to fully build out the corridors by funding publicly accessible EV charging stations at least 50 miles apart. More than 40 eligible locations along the corridors have been identified.
Applications close at 5:00 pm on May 7th!
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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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