State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement regarding the decision by Walgreens to close its store at 8628 S. Cottage Grove on June 4, 2026:

“This decision isn’t just disappointing – it’s disrespectful and oblivious to the real struggles people are facing, coming on the heels of attacks on SNAP and other support for working families by the Trump administration. 

“For decades, our community has been loyal partners helping to support the success of this business. Have there been challenges? Yes – but the reality is that this decision places profits over people.

“Families relied on this location not just for prescriptions, but for basic necessities, health access and a sense of neighborhood stability. To walk away now – without meaningful engagement, without a transition plan and without regard for the impact – sends a clear and troubling message: this community’s  needs take a back seat to Walgreens’ bottom line.

Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrated the launch of a first-of-its-kind incentive program to promote environmentally conscious television and filmmaking, positioning Illinois as a nationwide leader in sustainable film production.

“This expansion strengthens Illinois’ position as a national leader in film production while supporting good-paying jobs and sustainable growth,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “It’s a smart initiative that benefits our economy, our workforce and our environment.”

Under the expanded program, productions recognized as “certified green productions” through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Film Office will be eligible for an additional 5% tax credit – making Illinois the first state to incentivize film and television productions for meeting certain sustainability standards.

CHICAGO – Underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving and elevating sites that honor Black leadership, economic progress and cultural resilience, State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. helped announce a transformative partnership to restore and redevelop the historic Hotel Florence – along with other key buildings – within the Pullman State Historic Site on Chicago’s South Side.

“I am incredibly proud to be from and represent the Pullman community,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), who also represents the Pullman Historic District. “This forward-thinking partnership is not only a direct result of our responsible, community-centered budgeting efforts — it’s a momentous opportunity that will breathe new life into the Hotel Florence, transform the Pullman Historic Site and strengthen our broader community.”

Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the governor outlined his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2027:

“In a year when the Trump administration is set on passing policies that take services and opportunities away from those struggling to make ends meet, we in Illinois are focused on extending a lifeline to working families so they can thrive.

“The budget plan put forth today would preserve key state investments across affordable housing, health care, education and public safety – continuing to make life in Illinois safe, affordable and meaningful despite this federal administration’s chaos and cruelty.