I wanted to let you know that, with my support, the Senate approved legislation today that will authorize the state to release state gasoline tax revenues, 911 emergency services funding and dollars for other vital programs.

This legislation has already passed the House, so it will now go to the governor’s desk for final approval.

While the governor has said he supports this proposal, the budget impasse began when he vetoed similar proposals back in June.

I hope the governor keeps his word and signs this measure into law.

Here is a breakdown of key components of Senate Bill 2039.

•$582.5 million to IDOT for local governments share of motor fuel gas tax revenues

•$77 million for 911-related costs

•$8.9 million for Choose Chicago to promote Chicago as a destination for tourism and business conferences

•$1 billion to the Lottery for prizes

•$31 million to IDOT to purchase road salt

•$2.5 million for breast cancer services and research

•$28 million for nursing home licensing and inspections

•$165 million for home heating bill assistance

While today’s vote was positive, the governor needs to show leadership and sign a budget that funds other essential programs not currently being funded, such as college aid for students and mental health services.

Chicago — In the wake of reports that Latinos are being fired from positions in state government, Senate Majority Caucus Whip Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) is urging Gov. Bruce Rauner’s administration to hire more Latinos.

According to a WGN-TV story, “19 out of 29 Latino staffers have been let go without an interview and only a couple have been replaced by other Latinos.”

Senator Martinez was featured in the WGN-TV report regarding concerns over Latinos losing jobs and the lack of diversity in state hiring.  

You can watch the report here: Some Latinos upset at Gov. Rauner's hiring practices

To view the flier, please click here.

The National Veterans Art Museum opened it newest location Nov. 11 at 4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. We saluted our vets and celebrated all the hard work they have done for our country with the unveiling of the newest exhibit, Welcome Home. Attending the event were Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, Sen. Iris Y. Martinez, Rep. Toni Berrios, and Chicago Alderman Timothy Cullerton and Alderman John Arena.