Hirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – In a continued effort to improve education in Illinois, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is introducing a measure to fund a study on school nursing capacity in Illinois.

“Countless low-income children with health conditions have most of their health needs met by school nurses, and the high level of care many of those nurses provide is a testament to their skill and dedication. It’s far from ideal, but school nurses provide a backstop when regular health services are unaffordable,” Hirschauer said. “However, the sad reality is that many kids in our communities don’t even have access to a school nurse. Illinois schools are facing a shortage, and it’s past time we get to work ending that. The study I am proposing will give us invaluable information on how to address this issue.”

In tandem with the Illinois Association of School Nurses (IASN), Hirschauer filed House Bill 5601, a measure to fund a study on school nursing capacity in Illinois. The study aims to understand the reasons for the current shortage and create new solutions to end it. Hirschauer has been a champion for revamping and improving education in Illinois; casting key votes on the House Appropriations: Elementary and Secondary Education committee, the House Child Care Accessibility and Early Childhood Education committee and the House Elementary and Secondary Education: School Curriculum and Polices committee.

Gloria Barrera, President of the IASN said, “Every child deserves access to a school nurse, no matter their zip code. Our goal is to achieve having a certified and licensed school nurse in every school district to supervise the health services program, that being said, we need the data to support that. We thank Representative Hirschauer for introducing HB5601 to appropriate $250,000 from the SBE Federal Department of Education Fund to the State Board of Education for a grant to contract with IASN to complete a study for school nursing capacity in this state, effective July 1, 2022.  The data collected will help drive action for our work in the future. We are asking legislators to support this bill. They’ll be hearing from school nurses in their districts very soon to further explain why this is essential to school health here in Illinois.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

(D-Batavia)
49th District

Springfield Office:
276-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-1653

District Office:
946 Neltnor Blvd #108
West Chicago IL 60185

The post Hirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Statement on Governor Pritzker’s Budget Proposal
 

Budget proposal is fiscally and socially responsible

Today, the Governor outlined a fiscally and socially responsible budget proposal that demonstrates that Illinois is on the strongest financial footing we’ve had in decades. We can use this surplus to invest in the people and communities who need help the most, be great stewards of our debt, and set the stage for future growth. 

After almost two years of struggling through a global pandemic, working families are in desperate need of support. I appreciate that the governor’s proposal includes using much of this surplus to provide direct tax relief to families and their everyday needs. Illinoisans are feeling the pain of inflation while still recovering from the financial hit of the pandemic. The Governor’s proposal for a 1-year moratorium on state grocery taxes and a 1-year freeze on the gas tax will give families assistance in these unprecedented times.

Throughout the pandemic our students and teachers have suffered through interrupted learning; and working families have struggled to find and maintain affordable childcare. I am glad to see Governor Pritzker is calling for half a billion dollars to fund preK-12 schools, which includes $150 million for early childhood education. Prioritizing state dollars to support our talented students, teachers, administrators, and support staff is critical to growing a strong and bright future.

However, to truly make a difference in the lives of Illinois families, we cannot ignore the importance of early intervention services and affordable day care. Throughout the pandemic our littlest and most vulnerable learners have received interrupted early intervention care. Disparities in development and kindergarten readiness, already wide, are growing deeper and more stark with underfunding of critical programs. Child care providers, early childhood educators, and caregivers need well-funded support to grow programs to meet the needs of Illinois families. I urge the Governor to expand the 10% increase for early education to include Early Intervention (EI) services and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Governor Prizker presented us with a budget that puts the needs of Illinoisans first. His proposal marks an optimistic start to our budgeting process and I look forward to digging into the details to ensure that folks in the 49th District have the support they need to thrive.

Maura Portrait

 

After almost two years of struggling through a global pandemic, working families are in desperate need of support. I appreciate that the governor’s proposal includes using much of this surplus to provide direct tax relief to families and their everyday needs.

 

 

Maura IL Icon

 

Hirschauer to Host Breakfast to Honor Veterans

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To honor those who have served our country, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is hosting a Veterans Breakfast at VFW Post 6791 in West Chicago.

“After our veterans have sacrificed so much for our communities, this is a small way to celebrate their contributions while giving them a space to voice their concerns,” Hirschauer said. “This also provides the chance for veterans and their families to learn a little bit more about the work we’ve done in Springfield this year.”

The Veterans’ Breakfast will be held on Dec. 9 at the VFW Post 6791 located at 431 N. Neltnor Blvd. in West Chicago.  Hirschauer invites local veterans and their families to share their thoughts on legislation and other issues they face in their communities.  Additionally, Hirschauer has invited state Representative Stephanie Kifowit, USMC Veteran 90-94 and the Chair of the Illinois House Veterans’ Affairs Committee to share her experiences and talk about work being done in for Illinois veterans.

“As a Veteran, I have seen firsthand how difficult it is to find state and federal resources, especially when returning home from active duty,” Kifowit said. “This is a great opportunity for veterans to join together in fellowship and share their frustrations in addition to learning about state level initiatives aimed to improve access to housing, healthcare and state services.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

(D-Batavia)
49th District

Springfield Office:
276-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-1653

District Office:
946 Neltnor Blvd #108
West Chicago IL 60185

The post Hirschauer to Host Breakfast to Honor Veterans appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – As the weather begins to cool down, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is reminding residents to prepare for dangerous winter weather conditions like extreme cold, snow and ice.

“Traveling during the holiday season can be unpredictable, especially as temperature drops and winter weather conditions worsen,” Hirschauer said. “This upcoming holiday season, be sure to be prepared for winter weather both at home and while traveling.”

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) released their 2021 Winter Weather Preparedness Guide to help Illinoisans prepare for winter weather conditions. IEMA recommends that residents familiarize themselves with winter weather terms, local county names, health risks of cold weather, and prepare disaster kits for work and home. Emergency supplies kits should include a battery powered weather radio, nonperishable food items, medication, extra water, flashlights, first aid kit, pet supplies, facemasks and hand sanitizer.  For travel emergency kits, it is essential to also include a shovel, windshield scraper or brush, a tool kit, extra clothing or blankets, booster cables, and sand or cat litter.

 “As your family gathers to celebrate the holidays, be sure that they are preparing for the weather conditions and traveling safely,” Hirschauer said. “By spending the time to prepare now, families can ensure they have a safe and healthy holiday season.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

(D-Batavia)
49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Reminds Residents to Prepare for Winter Weather as Holiday Season Approaches appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer Highlights Open Enrollment Period for ACA Health Insurance

    WEST CHICAGO, Ill. –State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is highlighting the open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance.

    “This year, there are more plans for Illinoisans to choose from, so it is possible to find a plan that fits your needs,” Hirschauer said. “The plans included will protect those with preexisting conditions and help give options for preventative care.”

    The Illinois Department of Insurance recently announced the Open Enrollment Marketplace which runs from Nov. 1, 2021 to Jan. 15, 2022. This change allows Illinoisans an additional month to enroll in health insurance through the ACA Marketplace. This year, consumers will have more options to choose from than the previous year. For more information about health insurance options under the ACA, visit www.healthcare.gov.

     “The best way to maintain your health is to make sure that you have coverage when you need it most,” Hirschauer said. “After navigating a global pandemic, I encourage everyone to make sure they are covered.”

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Highlights Open Enrollment Period for ACA Health Insurance appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer Recognizes Veterans Day, Highlights Legislation to Support Veterans

    WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To honor veterans this Veterans Day, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is celebrating the contributions of veterans and highlighting her work to support veterans.

    “Veterans Day is a time to reflect and thank our service people who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom,” Hirschauer said. “It is important to recognize the contribution of our veterans and highlight ways that veterans can access resources here in Illinois.”

    Hirschauer, who sits on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has supported numerous pieces of legislation to support the health and success of veterans as they return to their communities.  This year, Hirschauer supported HR 62 to investigate the COVID-19 outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans’ Home and hold people accountable for the crisis. Hirschauer also co-sponsored HB 130 to grant Veterans of World War II property tax exemptions.

     “As we prepare to return to Springfield in January, veterans’ issues remain at the forefront of building a stronger Illinois,” Hirschauer said. “I will continue to support measures to ensure that our veterans receive the resources they deserve.”

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Recognizes Veterans Day, Highlights Legislation to Support Veterans appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer-Backed Legislation Supports Manufacturers, Economic Growth

    WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To help manufacturers reinvest in the local workforce and build a greener economy, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, supported legislation to provide tax incentives for auto producers and manufacturers in the electric vehicles industry. 

    “The popularity of electric vehicles is on the rise, and this gives Illinois auto makers the opportunity to bring more jobs to our communities while investing in sustainable energy,” Hirschauer said. “This legislation will reward manufacturers who choose to do business in Illinois and create jobs for our local communities.”

    Hirschauer is a sponsor of the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois), creating tax credits for manufacturers who add or create new jobs in Illinois.  The tax credits can be used for various operating costs like job training and construction costs. This legislation passed both the house and senate during October’s veto session and has been sent to the governor. 

     “As we continue to recover from the pandemic, it is essential to give our local business owners and manufacturers the opportunity to get back on track and reinvest in the economy,” Hirschauer said. “With initiatives like REV Illinois, our state can reward our local manufacturers and attract new businesses and opportunities for employment.”

    # # #

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer-Backed Legislation Supports Manufacturers, Economic Growth appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer Highlights October as National Manufacturing Month

    WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To celebrate the essential role of manufacturing in the economy and the community, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is highlighting October as National Manufacturing Month.

    “Manufacturers have always been essential to Illinois’ economy,” Hirschauer said. “After a tough year with limitations posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to highlight the resiliency and contributions that these manufacturers make in our communities.”

    Hirschauer has supported numerous measures to help businesses and manufacturers get back on track after obstacles created by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Hirschauer supported House Bill 2454, creating the Back to Business grants for employers in manufacturing and numerous other industries. These programs will invest in local economic redevelopment, waive fees for businesses struggling due to the pandemic, and help businesses operate safely. Earlier this month, Hirschauer participated in a local manufacturing month tour of Suncast Corporation with students from Batavia High School. In total, this event hosted over 450 students from the local region to encourage students to explore high paying careers in manufacturing.

     “Manufacturers help to create local jobs and are the engines of numerous communities across the state,” Hirschauer said. “By supporting Illinois manufacturers this month and every month, we can build back a stronger economy.”

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Highlights October as National Manufacturing Month appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer Highlights New Safe2Help Illinois Program for Illinois Students

    WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To promote the availability of mental health and school safety services for students, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is bringing awareness to the new Safe2Help Illinois program for K-12 students. 

    “Unfortunately, we continue to see school shootings happen regularly throughout the United States,” said Hirschauer. “In response to these shootings and to prevent future crises, we need to ensure we are providing the best possible resources to all students to ensure preventative measures are in place before a tragedy occurs in one of our schools. This Safe2Help Illinois program is a step in that direction.”

    In response to the fatal school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the Illlinois Terrorism Task Force led a working group made up of law enforcement and educators from around Illinois to identify school safety issues and come up with practical solutions. The Safe2Help hotline was a recommendation from the working group. The Safe2Help hotline is a 24-hour program where students can use a free app, text/phone, or the website (Safe2HelpIL.com) to share school safety issues in a confidential environment. Information obtained by Safe2Help Illinois will remain confidential to ensure student privacy and to protect the integrity of the program.  This program is not intended to suspend, expel or punish students; rather, the goal is to encourage students to “Seek Help Before Harm.”. Safe2Help Illinois is available 24/7, and at no cost to all school districts in the state. Once vetted, the information will be shared immediately with local school officials, mental health professionals and/or local law enforcement, depending on the nature of the information. The program also will help local officials by connecting them with mental health resources or other appropriate tools to intervene and help students before they harm themselves or others.For more information, visit: https://www.safe2helpil.com/

    “While this new program is a huge step in the right direction to end school emergencies, more still needs to be done,” continued Hirschauer. “I will continue to fight for proper mental health resources that are accessible and affordable for all, and gun safety laws that will ensure tragedies like these will never have to happen again.” ​

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Highlights New Safe2Help Illinois Program for Illinois Students appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

    Hirschauer Receives 100% Voting Record from Illinois Environmental Council

    SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Maintaining her promise to fight climate change and vote for environmentally friendly legislation, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, was recently accounted as having a perfect voting record by the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC).

    “Since coming into my role as Representative, I have always been focused on ensuring we are passing legislation that focuses on clean energy, reducing climate change and conserving our natural resources for future generations,” said Hirschauer. “I am honored to receive this recognition and I stay committed to fighting for our Earth.”

    The Illinois Environmental Council works to promote policies aimed at safeguarding the Illinois environment and protecting it for future generations. Hirschauer voted for several pieces of legislation this past session supported by IEC including the SB 2408, the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, that makes Illinois a national leader in renewable energy while also protecting and creating thousands of good-paying jobs across Illinois.

    “Every time it counted, Rep. Hirschauer stood up for our environment, public health and meaningful action on the urgent climate crisis,” said IEC Executive Director Jen Walling. “Illinois will be a cleaner, safer place to call home because of the leadership Rep. Hischauer demonstrated this session, and we look forward to building on that legacy together in the future.”

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    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Pushes for More School Nurses, Funding for School Health Services in Coming Budget

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    The post Hirschauer Receives 100% Voting Record from Illinois Environmental Council appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.