SPRINGFIELD – To ensure students at public colleges and universities can access comprehensive reproductive health care, State Senator Celina Villanueva passed a measure expanding the availability of contraception and other essential services directly on campus.

“Students shouldn't have to jump through hoops to access basic health care,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “This legislation ensures that young people — many away from home for the first time — can get the care they need directly on campus.”

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s recent visit to Illinois, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“As someone who has spent my entire career fighting for immigrant rights, I will not stay silent while this administration continues to demonize our communities and blame states like Illinois for a crisis they created.

SPRINGFIELD – In a continued effort to ensure survivors of crime are treated with dignity and respect from the moment they come forward, State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading legislation to protect victims from deceptive practices during investigations.

“Survivors of crime deserve compassion and transparency—not manipulation,” said Senator Villanueva (D-Chicago).

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Celina Villanueva secured $550,000 to help EDDR Foundation Chicago build pathways to good-paying jobs in the construction and building trades.

"This investment in EDDR Foundation is about breaking down barriers and building up opportunities for workers in our communities," said Villanueva (D-Chicago). "These pre-apprenticeship programs are a vital step toward stable, long-term careers in the trades—especially for individuals who’ve historically been left out of these opportunities."

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded $19 million in grant funding through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program to 38 organizations across the state. The purpose of the funding is to create more pathways for kids to access pre-apprenticeship programs and registered apprenticeships, which provide greater opportunities to secure lifelong careers in the construction trades. In Villanueva’s district, the EDDR Foundation’s Cook County location will see a total of $550,000 to support pre-apprenticeship students.

"Job training isn’t just about employment—it’s about equity, economic mobility, and building a stronger future for our neighborhoods," Villanueva continued. "We’re investing in people to ensure they have the resources and support they need to succeed."

To see a full list of organizations receiving grant funding across the state, click here.