Category: Press Release

Hirschauer Recognizes Suicide Prevention Month

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer Recognizes Suicide Prevention Month

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To raise awareness for Suicide Prevention Month, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is highlighting resources for those struggling with their mental health.

“Mental health emergencies affect all people, regardless of income, race, gender or background and are heightened by a stigma surrounding receiving help,” said Hirschauer. “This month is a time to recognize the internal struggles people face every day and also promote ways we can support and help those currently facing mental health struggles.”

While suicide prevention is important to talk about every month, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time for people to openly talk about their struggles and provide support and resources to those needing them. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has provided the following tips and resources for those currently facing mental health struggles:

  • If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
  • If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
  • If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

“We have the ability to save someone’s life by sharing information on prevention, noticing signs of major depression, and ensuring those struggling in our lives have the resources they need to move forward,” continued Hirschauer. “This month is a good time to check in with those in your lives and community to ensure we are supporting everyone as much as we can. Getting help is heroic.”

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Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Suicide Prevention Month appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer Sponsored Law Improves Accessibility to Mental Health Care

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer Sponsored Law Improves Accessibility to Mental Health Care

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To increase access to vital mental health services, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, sponsored a new law to expand insurance coverage for mental health services.  

“Accessibility to mental health care, especially as we continue to recover from the pandemic, is essential,” Hirschauer said. “Under new law, people will now have access to necessary mental healthcare and know that their insurance will cover it.”

House Bill 2595 expands the standards for medically necessary treatment of mental, emotional, nervous, or substance use disorders and requires insurers to cover medically necessary treatment. It also prohibits insurers from limiting the duration of benefits or coverage for the treatment of mental, emotional, nervous, or substance use disorders and conditions. The law will take effect starting Jan. 1, 2023.

“Despite mental conditions not being visible, they are just as important and need to be covered by insurance, just like any other disorder or illness,” Hirschauer said. “This new law will give those suffering with mental, emotional, nervous, or substance abuse disorders the care they need to regain control of their health.”

# # #

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Sponsored Law Improves Accessibility to Mental Health Care appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer-Sponsored Law Expands Access to Affordable Birth Control

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer-Sponsored Law Expands Access to Affordable Birth Control

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To ensure residents have affordable and accessible healthcare available, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, sponsored a new law that provides certain types of hormonal contraception over the counter.

“According to the Center for Disease Control, 65% of women ages 18 to 49 use some type of birth control on a daily basis,” said Hirschauer. “With birth control being so widely used and comprehensive sexual education being taught in schools to educate students about the safety and effectiveness of birth control, anyone who chooses to use hormonal contraception should be able to receive it with ease.” 

House Bill 135, sponsored by Hirschauer, will allow certain types of hormonal contraceptives to be available for patients over the counter from pharmacists. Interested residents will have to complete a self-screening risk assessment, based upon CDC guidelines, to determine if a patient is eligible for over-the-counter contraception or must see a doctor for further analysis. Once eligible, residents will be able to receive a 12-month prescription of birth control and will also receive information on all birth control options, even ones not available over the counter. The bill was recently passed through both legislative chambers and signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.  

“A person may not be able to go to a doctor due to work, school or personal reasons; sometimes, a person may not even be able to afford a doctor’s appointment but may still need a contraceptive,” continued Hirschauer. “Under new law, people who need birth control can receive it with ease and can have control over their own health.”

​

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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-Sponsored Law Expands Access to Affordable Birth Control appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer to Host Job Fair on September 16

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer to Host Job Fair on September 16

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – To help local employers connect with jobseekers, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is hosting a Job Fair at Elgin Community College on Sept. 16.

“After a tough year for both employers and job seekers, my office is happy to host a job fair to connect those seeking meaningful employment opportunities with employers looking to rebuild their workforce,” Hirschauer said. “This event will be an opportunity for employers and job seekers to connect safely and in-person to talk more in depth about the job opportunities in our community.”

The Job Fair will be held at Elgin Community College on Sept. 16 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The event will be in Building E and parking is available to attendees in Parking Lot E. Job seekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes for reference and for on-site interviews. Masks will be required to attend.

“As our businesses return to regular capacity, more stable and well-paying positions are opening up for those looking to return to in-person work,” Hirschauer said. “Whether you are seeking new employment or curious about making a career change, I encourage you to come by the job fair and see what opportunities are available.”

​

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Job Fair on September 16 appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer Highlights New Vax Verify Program from Illinois Department of Public Health

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer Highlights New Vax Verify Program from Illinois Department of Public Health

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – Illinois residents can now check their vaccination status and pull up their vaccine card online through a new program from Illinois Department of Public Health and supported by state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia.

“As the Delta variant of COVID-19 surges and more businesses and events require vaccination status for entry, the new Vax Verify system makes proving vaccination status easy,” said Hirschauer. “Vax Verify is a safe, secure and simple way to pull up your vaccination card if needed, without worrying about confidential information becoming public.”

The Vax Verify program, created by the Illinois Department of Public Health, allows any Illinois resident over the age of 18 to check their vaccination status online. To use Vax Verify, residents must complete a one-time confidential verification process. After verification, residents will be able to view their own record in the Illinois Comprehensive Automated Immunization Registry Exchange (I-CARE). Interested residents can begin verifying their account or view their vaccine status at https://idphportal.illinois.gov.

“Nearly seven million Illinois residents have already gotten the COVID-19 vaccine,” continued Hirschauer. “Vax Verify just continues to simply the process of being vaccinated and putting Illinois on the right track to opening safely.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Vax Verify Program from Illinois Department of Public Health appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer Highlights Back to Business Program Grants

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer Highlights Back to Business Program Grants

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – As businesses continue to recover from the pandemic, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is encouraging small businesses to apply for the Back to Business grant program (B2B) from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

“Our small businesses are the backbone of our communities and help drive economic recovery,” Hirschauer said. “The Back to Business grant program will help the most vulnerable small businesses get back on track and create more jobs.”

B2B allocates $250 million for small businesses that have experienced significant losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses that belong to the restaurant and tavern, hotel, and arts industries will have priority status for grants. DCEO will also be partnering with community-based organizations like Small Business Development Centers and other community partners to reach the most at need businesses. The application opens on Aug. 18, 2021. Business owners can obtain more information about the application process at dceo.illinois.gov.

“The road to recovery has to lift up our small businesses that have been hurt the most during the pandemic,” Hirschauer said. “The families who have invested their lives to the economic development of our communities must take priority for state investment, and we cannot continue to let them bear the brunt of the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Back to Business Program Grants appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer Hosts Free Community Shred Day

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer Hosts Free Community Shred Day

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. –  To help local residents safely dispose of old documents, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is hosting a Free Community Shred Day on Aug. 28 at Leman Middle School in West Chicago. 

“This shred event is an easy way to get rid of old, sensitive documents without worry,” Hirschauer said. “Instead of simply throwing out old bills, tax returns or any other documents with confidential or personally identifiable information, residents can bring their old papers to Leman Middle School and dispose of them safely.”

Hirschauer is hosting a Free Community Shred Day in partnership with state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, on Aug. 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Leman Middle School, located at 238 E. Hazel St. in West Chicago. The event is free and open to the public. Residents can bring up to 3 boxes or 2 paper bags of old documents with all paperclips and staples removed previously. Attendees are encouraged  to take precautions against COVID-19 by wearing a personal protective mask since children or other vulnerable individuals might be present. 

“Identity theft can affect anyone and shredding old documents can help reduce the chances of scammers or criminals getting ahold of personal information,” Hirschauer said. “I encourage all local residents to take advantage of this opportunity to protect themselves against identity theft and to make their homes cleaner by getting rid of old documents in a safe manner.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Hosts Free Community Shred Day appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer to Host Family Health Fair

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer to Host Family Health Fair

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – As part of her commitment to bringing accessible services to her constituents, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is hosting a Family Health Fair on Saturday, August 14 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in West Chicago.

“As we get ready to send our children back to school and we are also seeing a new rise in COVID-19 cases, I want to make sure the entire family is ready and healthy for the forthcoming school year, not just the kids,” said Hirschauer. “This health fair is a way for families to not only get free health check-ups, but learn how to stay healthy for the rest of the year.” 

Hirschauer’s Health Fair will be on Saturday, August 14 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, located at 155 N. Prince Crossing Rd. in West Chicago. Families will be able to get free vaccines, food from the local food pantry, school supplies, baby supplies, a health check and information about local services to ensure longevity and good health. Since the event will have children present, masks will be required for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people.

“I am excited to bring these resources to the people of the 49th District,” said Hirschauer. “I encourage anyone who can to come check out the fair and learn ways to stay healthy.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Family Health Fair appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer-Backed Comprehensive Gun Safety Legislation Signed into Law

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer-Backed Comprehensive Gun Safety Legislation Signed into Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Combining her advocacy and work to end gun violence, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, supported  a comprehensive gun safety legislation package that was signed into law Monday by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“Gun violence is a multifaceted and complex issue that must be addressed on all fronts, from supporting law enforcement with the tools and technology they need to solve gun crimes and track illegally trafficked guns, to funding mental health, community-based violence intervention programs, and education,” said Hirschauer  “House Bill 562 is not a magic fix for the gun violence that plagues our state. It is, however, a crucially important step that we are taking today to prevent mass tragedies and everyday gun violence, and keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous people.”

House Bill 562, supported by Hirschauer, takes several steps to combat gun violence and streamlines the FOID applications process by:

  • Requiring federal background checks for all private gun sales
  • Directing $9 million in funding for mental health to communities most impacted by gun violence
  • Allowing for a single FOID/CCL card
  • Strengthening requirements for the Illinois State Police to monitor state and federal databases for people prohibited from owning guns
  • Creating a database of stolen guns
  • Allowing for voluntary fingerprinting as an incentive for reduced application fees and automatic renewal of gun licenses
  • Creating an appeals board for FOID applicants

“The gun violence that plagues our state takes many forms: suicides, homicides, intimate partner violence, police shootings—all of them are lethal,” said Hirschauer. “It is our job, as legislators, to enact public policies that will keep Illinoisans safe, and I will continue to fight for strong, common sense gun violence prevention initiatives. House Bill 592 is a step in the right direction, but we have a  lot more tough work to do.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 Comprehensive Gun Safety Legislation Signed into Law appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.

Hirschauer-Backed Legislation to Teach Asian American History Signed into Law

Posted on by Office of Maura Hirschauer
Hirschauer-Backed Legislation to Teach Asian American History Signed into Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To ensure education in Illinois reflects the diversity of the state, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, sponsored a new state law that requires Asian American history to be added to the school curriculum.

“This historic measure will make Illinois the first state in the country to require Asian American history to be taught in schools,” said Hirschauer. “We are in an unfortunate time when people of Asian descent are facing discrimination solely based on their ethnicity. This bill will not only work to combat discrimination against Asian Americans, but also ensure that people of every background in Illinois are recognized for their contributions in national and world history.” 

The Hirschauer-backed House Bill 376, also known as the Teaching Equitable Asian American History Act, was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker after receiving strong bipartisan support in both chambers of the General Assembly. Starting with the 2022-2023 school year, all public elementary and high school students will be required to complete a unit on Asian American history, including the history of Asian Americans in the Midwest and Illinois.

“Asian American history is American history,” said Hirschauer. “This legislation will not only better educate our youth, but also give Asian American students the chance to see their culture represented in the classroom. I am happy to see this much-needed legislation signed into law.”

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Rep. Maura HirschauerRep. Maura Hirschauer

(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 to Teach Asian American History Signed into Law appeared first on Illinois House Democratic Caucus.