Castro streamlines legal procedures for immigrant children

CHICAGO –State Senator Cristina Castro’s push to allow more Illinois courts to determine whether to give an undocumented child lawful permanent residence was signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker today.

House Bill 1553 allows civil courts to determine whether a child with Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) is eligible to be given lawful permanent residence. Under current law, only juvenile courts in Illinois may make this determination.

“This is about ensuring the safety of some of the most vulnerable people in our state,” said Castro, (D-Elgin). “We have an obligation to protect children regardless of their immigration status, and this law will expedite that process.”

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Local businesses invited to attent Hanover Township Job Fair

I am co-hosting a Job Fair with Hanover Township, Technology and Manufacturing Association, Illinois Department of Employment Security and Illinois workNet (American Jobs Center) on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at the Hanover Township Senior Center, 240 S. Route 59 in Bartlett.

There are many qualifed individuals within our area, who due to economic conditions are currently unemployed and would be thankful for the opportunity to interview with a reputable company such as yours. This is also a great opportunity for employers to seek qualified candidates.

If you are interested in participating, please complete the registration form JobFair2019.docx and return it to:

Hanover Township
Attn: Job Fair,
7431 Astor Avenue,
Hanover Park, Illinois 60133
Or fax: (630)289-1057

The deadline to register is Friday, August 23, 2019. For more information call Hanover Township (630)540-9085.

Castro praises new laws to protect immigrants

ELGIN – Several pieces of legislation that will create a more welcoming Illinois were signed into law today. Elgin Democrat State Senator Cristina Castro released the following statement:

“With the recent racist rhetoric from President Trump toward immigrants, I am proud that here in Illinois we are doing what we can to be the most welcoming. People in our communities are living in fear due to the scare tactics used by Trump’s Administration and it isn’t right. Illinois is made up of so many different cultures and people from across the world, and this legislation is a message to them that we have their backs.”

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Castro reacts to Senate passing balanced budget

SPRINGFIELD – Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) released the following statement after the Senate voted for a balanced budget Friday evening.

“This budget represents hope for our state and brings stability to Illinois. I voted for this budget, not only because it is truly balanced, but because it funds the services that have been put on the back burner the last few years and the services that many people in my district rely on.

“After living with the consequences of what a budget impasse did to higher education in our state, this budget makes higher education a priority, especially for students coming from working and middle-class families.

“This budget increases MAP Grant funding by $50 million and gives the AIM HIGH program an additional $10 million. My hope is that this investment will give Illinois students a reason to continue their education here in the state and become working members of our communities.