Castro urges increased renewable energy development in Illinois

‘We don’t have time to waste’

ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) held a press conference Thursday to introduce legislation to increase renewable energy development throughout Illinois.

“We don’t have time to waste,” Castro said. “We have an impending threat to our homes and lives. This measure will give our state the chance to become a leader in green energy, and I don’t want to pass that up.”

This measure seeks to promote jobs and economic opportunity to minority and disadvantaged communities and also puts goals in place for Illinois to work toward becoming 100 percent dependent on renewable energy by 2050.

“This bill is not only about making sure Illinois gets 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources,” Castro said. “It’s about making sure that 100 percent of Illinois shares in the benefits of clean energy.”

Castro: “Budget makes smart investments in education”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) released the following statement in response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s proposed budget:

“Our universities, school districts and students have suffered enough, and I’m happy to see that the governor is making this a priority in Illinois. We need to give students confidence that our state is a great place to receive their education and ensure that it is an even better place to work and live upon graduation. This is a smart investment that will have a long-term positive impact.

“I am also excited to see that the Elgin Mental Health Center will be getting the funding they deserve. This facility was the first to offer care to Illinois inmates with serious mental illnesses and with this funding it can continue towards reducing the recidivism and overall incarceration rates of mentally ill individuals.

“This budget isn’t perfect, and it will require tough decisions. This doesn’t have to be a rushed process. We have until May 31^st to negotiate a balanced budget that will move our state forward, while also not burdening the middle class.

“I look forward to having conversations with my colleagues in the legislature to negotiate a budget that brings functionality and certainty to our state.”

Castro votes to raise minimum wage

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) voted Thursday to increase Illinois’ minimum wage to $15 by 2025, saying the legislation will ease the burden on working class families and the state.

“In the past, individuals could work 40 hours a week on the minimum wage and meet their financial responsibilities,” Castro said. “Now, that kind of income barely covers basic needs, especially those who provide for an entire family.”

Senate Bill 1 would incrementally raise the minimum wage from $8.25 per hour to $15 per hour by 2025.

“The gradual increase will allow for businesses to adapt to the new law,” Castro said. “We’re committed to making sure local economies adapt to a new wage structure that will ultimately save money for all taxpayers, as fewer working families have to rely on government services to survive.”

Senate Bill 1 passed the Illinois Senate and now awaits consideration in the House.

Castro: It’s important that immigrants know their rights and opportunities in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) issued the following statement today commending Gov. JB Pritzker for his commitment to immigrants, refuges and asylum seekers by expanding their access to welcoming centers.

“With the current anti-immigrant environment in our country, I am excited to see our governor take strides towards creating a more welcoming atmosphere for our state’s immigrants.”

“It is important that we inform immigrants about their rights and opportunities in Illinois and I am excited to work further with Gov. Pritzker on long-term immigration reform during this upcoming session.”