CHICAGO – After a draft Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was leaked, State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“I am dumbfounded by the reports that the Supreme Court is expected to overturn Roe v. Wade. This ruling would not only take away women’s rights to their bodily autonomy, but it would also declare a war against working-class women.

“Abortions will continue to happen, they just will not be safe or legal in certain states. Thankfully, abortion rights are protected in Illinois, but the lives of many women will be put at risk elsewhere.

“Abortion is health care, and there are many reasons people need them. People have a right to choose, and I will defend that right as long as I serve the public.”

The application deadline has been extended to May 6

CHICAGO – The deadline to apply for the Phillip Jackson Freedom School Grant has been extended, and State Senator Patricia Van Pelt encouraging all who are eligible to apply.

“While students are getting a standardized education, many children could benefit from an extra system of support,” Van Pelt said. “Today’s Freedom Schools carry the essence of the movement that preceded them, and can offer a load of knowledge to those who take advantage of it.”

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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.”