AURORA – Upon learning that Illinois has repaid the remaining $1.36 billion unemployment insurance (UI) Trust Fund debt, State Senator Linda Holmes released the following statement:

“I am so proud of this latest achievement in our years-long efforts to right the ship of the Illinois economy. This development will take advantage of recent progress and continue our post-pandemic recovery. I support the choices we made to pay off old debt, shore up our unemployment insurance trust fund, strengthen our Rainy Day fund and boost our pension systems.

SPRINGFIELD – A long-time proponent for reproductive rights in Illinois, State Senator Linda Holmes voted in support of House Bill 4664 last week to enshrine protection in our state. The bill was signed into law by the governor last Friday.

“When the US Supreme Court struck down the nearly 50 years of precedent in Roe v. Wade, Illinois immediately became an island in the Midwest for women making health care decisions,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “Our existing laws protected access to care, but more effort was needed to secure that freedom – and to broaden it for the thousands of women and providers who would be coming here from neighboring states to seek that protection for themselves.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes was sworn in to the Illinois Senate today during the inauguration ceremony beginning the 103rd Session of the General Assembly at the Old State Capitol. She has served as State Senator for the 42nd District since 2006.

“It is such a privilege to have the confidence and trust of the residents of the 42nd District,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “The past few years have been quite challenging with the public health, unemployment and economic issues the COVID-19 pandemic wrought, but we’ve been able to rebound, regain and surpass our previous economic standing.”

AURORA – To help area veterans who are experiencing homelessness this winter, State Senator Linda Holmes, working with Guardian Corps of America, is holding a sock drive to benefit shelters across the 42^nd District.

“Socks are a major sought-out item of clothing by people experiencing homelessness,” said Holmes (D-Aurora). “With winter approaching, I’m asking people to consider donating a pair of new socks to help our heroes in need to keep warm.”

Worn-out or ragged socks put people at serious risk of foot disease and, during the winter months, in severe danger from the cold. As a result, new socks are greatly needed by those experiencing homelessness — but they are the least donated clothing item at homeless shelters.