CHICAGO – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) announced that a new defense innovation unit coming to Chicago. It will be co-located at the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI), which sits in the 5th District.

“Technology is always evolving, and it’s important that our Department of Defense is well connected and properly equipped, so that they can handle any threats that may arise,” Van Pelt said. “This initiative ensures security in our military while bringing opportunities to the Westside.”

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) voted to pass a responsible, comprehensive budget that invests more than $200 million toward public safety measures, and released the following statement:

“I am pleased that this budget prioritizes funding for initiatives that will keep our communities safe, as many Illinoisans are living in fear due to gang violence and an uptick in crimes like carjackings.

“Further, I am glad that the Gang Crime Witness Protection Program I sponsored will be receiving $20 million in funding. This funding is crucial to ensure that if someone sees something, they will feel empowered and safe to say something and help bring criminals to justice.

“In addition to the budget, I am happy the tax relief plan protects families and puts money back in their pockets with $1.8 billion in financial assistance. This budget puts Illinois on a positive trajectory towards economic recovery and safety, and I was proud support it.”

CHICAGO – State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black woman to serve as a Supreme Court Justice:

“I am ecstatic to see that Ketanji Brown Jackson has officially been selected to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Despite her tenuous hearings, she persevered, and her testimony spoke volumes to her ability to do the job.

“I am hopeful that she continues to make us proud, as she is a stunning example of Black excellence and an inspiration to many.

“Her perspective will add a unique set of views to the panel of judges and I hope to see our highest court further embrace the diversity of our nation in the future.”

SPRINGFIELD – Building upon efforts to address maternal and infant mortality in the state of Illinois, State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) is leading a measure to expand access to prenatal services.

“Prenatal and perinatal care can make a world of a difference in a mother and a child’s life,” Van Pelt said. “Unfortunately, everyone doesn’t have the same access to this kind of care, which is why the measure is vital.”

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