Guzmán initiative to create transparency on how contraband enters prisons

SPRINGFIELD —To better address the growing issue of contraband in prisons, State Senator Graciela Guzmán passed a measure through committee to collect and publicize data on contraband found in each Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) facility, including how it entered the facility and how those possessing it were punished.

“For the safety of people who are incarcerated as well as staff who have a duty to intervene in these situations, we need to do more to prevent contraband from moving into prisons,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “However, our methods to prevent contraband need to be rooted in facts and data. This new initiative will help us get a better understanding of where contraband is coming from before imposing new regulations that are not based on evidence—methods that further isolate and dehumanize people who are incarcerated.”

Senate Bill 2201 would require the Illinois Department of Corrections to collect and publish data concerning contraband found in their facilities, including the type of contraband, where in the facility it was identified, and the method of entry into the facility. It would also make public the consequences for people in custody for possessing or attempting to procure contraband to ensure any disciplinary actions meet ethical standards and do not include excessive force.

• Prison Reform
• IDOC
• Transparency

Read more: Guzmán initiative to create transparency on how contraband enters prisons

Guzmán emphasizes need for accessible health care, support for disability services following governor’s budget address

SPRINGFIELD — Following Governor JB Pritzker’s budget address Wednesday, State Senator Graciela Guzmán expressed gratitude and frustration for elements of the proposed budget.

“Every Illinoisan should receive the health benefits and services they need to live healthy lives,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “As a firm believer in healthcare for all, I am eager to expand on the governor’s recommendations in the final budget so that hardworking Illinoisans can access the care they need without going into debt.” 

This budget proposal recommended a $30 million investment to help more than three million Illinoisans with medical needs, including more than 785,000 adults eligible through the Affordable Care Act. These funds include a total of $15 million for the Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program Fund, a program to erase medical debt for 300,000 Illinois residents.

However, while the proposal seeks to make health care more accessible for some Illinoisans, it does not propose allocating funds for the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program, potentially leaving low-income adults aged 42 to 64 without insurance coverage. Guzmán, a fierce advocate for immigrant adults, expressed her commitment to fighting for investments in this program in the final budget. 

• Immigration
• Health Care
• Disability Justice
• FY 26 Budget
• Health Care for Immigrants

Read more: Guzmán emphasizes need for accessible health care, support for disability services following...

Guzmán begins monthly Legislative Town Hall series on Feb. 24

CHICAGO — To keep local residents informed of the legislative work going on in Springfield, State Senator Graciela Guzmán is hosting a monthly legislative town hall every fourth Monday until the end of May, beginning on Monday, Feb. 24.

“While the legislative committee and floor hearings are available to the public, many folks do not have the free time to listen in and follow all of the initiatives we are working on,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “These town halls will offer a rundown of what has been happening in Springfield, and provide more information for those who want to become more involved in the legislative process.”

Guzmán’s first legislative town hall will take place on Monday, Feb. 24 from 7-8 p.m. The first meeting will be held virtually, but the senator hopes to move to a hybrid meeting format in the future. Spanish interpretation will be available.

• 20th District
• In District
• Town Hall

Read more: Guzmán begins monthly Legislative Town Hall series on Feb. 24

Guzmán to host district office open house Feb. 13

CHICAGO — After recently being sworn into office, State Senator Graciela Guzmán is hosting an open house at her district office to meet her and her staff.

“Transparency and collaboration with members of the community on the legislative process is one of my top priorities as a state senator,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “This open house will give folks the chance to meet me face-to-face and learn more about what I’m working on in Springfield, while also leaving space to hear their ideas for legislation to address the issues that impact them the most.”

The open house will be held at Guzmán’s district office, located at 3140 W. Montrose Ave. on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 12-7 p.m.

• In District
• Open House
• District Office

Read more: Guzmán to host district office open house Feb. 13