SPRINGFIELD—State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) offered his full support of a plan expanding vote by mail for the upcoming general election due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This proposal allows the state to act reasonably to protect its citizens,” Sims said. “We are facing an unprecedented pandemic. This measured approach will ensure that voters can safely cast their ballots from the safety of their homes.”
Individuals who have voted in the past two years — either in the 2018 General Election, 2019 Consolidated Election or 2020 Primary Election — will be mailed an application for a vote-by-mail ballot.
Those who registered to vote after the 2020 Primary Election will also receive an application.
Under the plan, individuals who aren’t automatically sent an application will still be able to apply for a ballot via the State Board of Elections’ website. Applications will open the day the law takes effect.
This legislation does not prevent in-person voting opportunities on and before Election Day.
“Many have fought, bled and died for our right to vote, and we need to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise that right,” Sims said. “I am confident this plan will help voters throughout Illinois do so without risking their health.”
Senate Bill 1863 now heads to the governor’s desk for approval.
We have a new COVID-19 testing site in the 17th District at the Studio Movie Grill located at 210 W. 87th St., Chicago. It is free and drive-up only. It is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
CHICAGO – To help students who are seeking post-secondary education, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) is encouraging high school graduates to apply for the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (ILBCF) Scholarship.
“We aim to give students the boost they need to further their education,” Sims said. “I hope students will take full advantage of this opportunity and ease some of the financial pressure of going to college.”
The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Scholarship has been a catalyst for many low-income students who would not be able to afford certain expenses upon arriving at the higher learning facility.
The deadline to apply for the scholarship is Thursday, June 4. Students who are applying for the scholarship must be an Illinois resident, and if awarded, they will receive $1,000.
“We want to sow a seed in the futures of our young people,” Sims said. “There is so much potential yet to be unlocked. This resource is a great start to help students achieve their dreams.”
Students who want to apply for the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Scholarship can complete the application here.
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