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What will distinguish progressive values from the political mainstream is not just support for a set of policies, but a willingness to take risks and fight for key core values. This combination of moral clarity and self-confidence combined with smart, aggressive organizing projects an authenticity that appeals to voters across the spectrum.
- William McNary, Co-Director Citizen Action/Illinois
USAction Delegates Assembly Opening Speech: November, 2007
On May 20, 2009, the Illinois State Senate voted unanimously in favor of legislation to expand Circuit Breaker benefits for seniors and disabled citizens. The Illinois House of Representatives voted unanimously in favor of this bill in April.
Citizen Action/Illinois has been working with coalition partners, social service providers and legislators for over two years to pass this important bill. The legislation provides a standard benefit, reduces confusion and provides Medicare beneficiaries with more protection in the ‘Doughnut Hole’ coverage gap.
The legislation raises the income limitations one must meet to qualify for the Circuit Breaker benefit, which includes the Illinois Cares Rx program, property tax abatement and a license plate discount for seniors and disabled citizens. It also expands the medications available to Illinois Cares Rx enrollees.
Citizen Action/Illinois commends the efforts of our coalition partners, concerned citizens and our legislative champions, State Representative Jack Franks and State Senator Toi Hutchison, for their dedication to this two-year campaign to help the seniors and disabled people of our state.
The Cook County Board of Commissioners recently approved a Green Construction Ordinance that will require all public county construction projects, costing $2 million or more, to use clean fuel and technology that removes up to 90% of dirty soot from their equipment.
With the announcement, Cook County will become the first County in the Midwest to adopt a green construction ordinance. The efforts of Citizen Action/Illinois and our Illinois Campaign to Clean Up Diesel Pollution coalition partners were crucial in making sure this ordinance passed. Thank you!
The Employee Free Choice Act is federal legislation that would reduce barriers to union organizing - crucial legislation at a time when workers are facing cuts in pay and mass layoffs.
The laws that protect working people from intimidation by anti-union employers are weak. The Employee Free Choice Act will strengthen penalties on employers who violate workers' rights to make their own choice about a union and to negotiate a first contract. And it will also provide for the right to union representation when a majority of the employees indicate in writing that they want it.
Read William McNary’s speech in support of the Employee Free Choice Act, delivered at a February 17, 2009 rally sponsored by the Chicago Federation of Labor and the Illinois AFL-CIO.
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