SPRINGFIELD – Pleased by the governor’s commitment to continue progress for a more equal, fair state benefitting all Illinois residents in his State of the State address to lawmakers Wednesday, State Senator Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“Our state is back on track toward financial responsibility, while taking the needs of minorities into consideration. I believe we’re progressing to a state government that works for everyone.

I also share a passion with his administration to continue investing in the care and education our children need to succeed making Illinois the best state to raise our young ones. I commend the governor’s sincerity and look forward to what we can accomplish this legislative session.”

CHICAGO — Assistant Majority Leader Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) issued the following statement after news of major earthquakes devastating parts of Puerto Rico:

“My heart goes out to my people, and all the families and friends in Puerto Rico after several powerful earthquakes hit the island. We will organize and be ready to help our beloved Island of Enchantment.”

SPRINGFIELD – To bring awareness to genetic counselors’ important role in the health care system, Assistant Majority Leader Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) led the Illinois Senate in passing a resolution declaring Nov. 14, 2019 as Genetic Counselor Awareness Day.

Assistant Majority Leader Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) advanced Senate Resolution 780 to express support for people improving the lives of many by using research into the human genome.

“Many people benefit from increased genetic sequencing research and genetic counseling, especially those with family histories of inherited diseases,” Martinez said. “Genetic counselors empower patients and their families with vital healthcare information, guidance and emotional support during challenging times.”

In Illinois, there are over 150 certified genetic counselors working in prenatal, fertility, pediatrics, metabolic, cardiovascular, neurology and cancer care.

SPRINGFIELD – Bringing her lengthy experience in stewarding resources and holding government entities accountable, Assistant Majority Leader Iris Y. Martinez (D-Chicago) prioritizes fiscal responsibility as newly-appointed Chair of the Senate Revenue Committee.

“I believe our state has turned a corner and is on the path back towards stability for its citizens,” Martinez said. “But in order for our state to work for everyone, we must negotiate and vet economic programs and ideas with all perspectives in mind.”

Martinez’s priorities for the Revenue Committee include:

• Prioritizing transparency in new recreational cannabis revenue and ensuring the funds support minority communities that have been disproportionally affected by failed drug policies.
• Using the findings of the Property Tax Relief Task Force, of which she is a member, to create legislation to lower the largest tax burden facing Illinois residents.
• Improving reliability in future budget education and social service negotiations.

“I will be a strong voice for hard-working Illinoisans, women and minorities, guaranteeing their needs are not overlooked,” Martinez said.

Martinez also serves as the chair of Pension Investments Special Committee and vice-chair of the Government Accountability and Pensions Committee.