HOFFMAN ESTATES – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) toured the AMITA Health AMITA Health St. Alexius Medical Center and sat down with local health care workers to discuss some of the challenges facing local systems Monday.

“I appreciated the conversations I had during my visit regarding some of the issues in our health care system, like staffing needs, number of beds and more,” Castro said. “We know that behavioral and mental health care is just as important as physical care, and AMITA is working to expand their services to people with mental health needs.”

CHICAGO – To kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) along with Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García and other state leaders launched the Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Coalition to boost representation throughout the state.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect time to push for increased investment in Latino communities across our state,” said Castro, a second-generation Mexican-American. “The leaders in this coalition understand the historic struggles of people in the Latino community and will help be a voice for change.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin), who has worked tirelessly for years to bring a comprehensive and just energy transition package to Illinois, released the following statement regarding the General Assembly’s passage of the state’s historic energy measure:

“After years of fighting the battle for clean energy, I am pleased we were able to come together to pass a comprehensive energy package that puts environmental justice and equity at the center of the work to move Illinois to 100% clean energy.

“Historically, Black and Brown communities have been disproportionately impacted by climate change and other environmental and health harms that come with burning fossil fuels. Giving these voices a chance to lead the transition to clean energy was a top priority that was reached in this legislation.

“I am proud to have worked over the last few years on an ethical clean energy plan to bring Illinois to the forefront of the fight against the climate crisis.”

ELGIN – In the months following the spring legislative session, State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin) is celebrating the signing of a number of pieces of legislation she spearheaded to help Illinoisans.

“I am proud of the General Assembly’s work this year to pass a wide range of measures to improve the lives of Illinoisans,” Castro said. “As we prepare to return to session in the coming months, I hope to continue my work to support and protect residents of the state, especially our most vulnerable.”