CHICAGO – A measure sponsored by State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) and State Representative Lakeisia Collins (D-Chicago) to create a Forensic Science Commission was signed into law Friday.

“This is why we have hearings, to guide the legislation that impacts culture,” Van Pelt said. “There are still people awaiting answers as the DNA backlog decreases, and a commission is needed to improve coordination between police and forensic scientists to help further the decrease in the backlog.”

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SPRINGFIELD – The state’s Call4Calm text line to support Illinois residents' mental health needs is now permanent thanks to an initiative led by State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago).

“Due to the pandemic, mental health outcomes are more concerning than ever, and this text line is an essential outlet,” Van Pelt said. “Call4Calm can still benefit those who struggle with their mental health even after this pandemic is over, and must remain a mental health resource.”

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SPRINGFIELD – Any person who has been convicted for a drug-related offense under state or federal law is currently prohibited from being eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) led an initiative to reverse that, which was signed by the governor Friday.

“Even after people serve their time, they still struggle when reentering society, and have many rights continuously taken from them,” Van Pelt. “They are released and everything around them has changed, except their ability to fend for themselves has become harder due to their status.”

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CHICAGO – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is encouraging residents of Chicago’s West Side check their eligibility for the federal Child Tax Credit, even if they did not file taxes in the last two years.

“I encourage families that are eligible to take advantage of this opportunity,” Van Pelt said. “By filling out the non-filer application on the IRS website, you can still get relief, even if you did not file taxes in 2019 or 2020.”

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