Jones calls for increased investment in safety net hospitals

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Deputy Majority Leader Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Pritzker’s proposed Fiscal Year 2023 budget:

“While we have made progress toward tackling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, more work must be done to provide protections for our frontline and healthcare workers. Furthermore, we must do more to support our safety net hospitals, which are the backbone for health care in marginalized communities.

“Safety nets make up 19.1% of our state’s hospitals and care for our state’s most vulnerable populations. We must ensure that they are funded properly, and equipped with adequate staffing and resources.

“I urge the governor to release the $30 million from the American Rescue Plan funding for safety net hospitals and hospital transformations. The safety net grants must be restored back into the budget so that our most vulnerable communities are properly equipped to combat this pandemic and other health disparities.

“For years, many of our safety nets haven’t seen a dime of their much needed funding. Let’s deliver on the promises we already made before we commit to new ones.”

Jones helps secure $1 million for small businesses recovering from pandemic

CHICAGO – Businesses in the 14th District will receive over $1 million in Back to Business grants thanks to the support of State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago).

“So many businesses have been waiting for this kind of assistance to help them get back on their feet,” Jones said. “I am glad that they are finally able to receive the funding needed for them to stay afloat and keep our communities growing.”

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Jones announces $20,000 grant for Blue Island Public Library

CHICAGO – Thanks to support from State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago), Blue Island Public Library will receive $20,500 in grants toward pandemic recovery.

“Libraries are more than just a place to rent books – they are a resource for people to learn and build community engagement,” Jones said. “A library is often an extension of a classroom, and it is important for our communities to be thoroughly equipped with the resources necessary to teach our children.”

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Jones announces investment for Community Assistance Programs

CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) announced today that Chicago’s Community Assistance Programs will receive nearly $500,000 in investments to provide pre-apprenticeship training and wraparound supportive services.

“This is a unique opportunity for the trade world to enhance its’ training and diversity within the workforce,” Jones said. “This investment will boost the local economy, as well as equitable opportunities for workers.”

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