Porfirio legislation breaks higher ed barriers for Iraqi, Afghan refugees

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Porfirio introduced legislation that would require public colleges and universities to waive transcript evaluation fees for refugees of Iraq and Afghanistan.

“In waiving these fees, we can invest in the academic journey of Iraqi and Afghan refugees while helping them,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township), who served alongside Iraqi and Afghan translators during Operation Iraqi Freedom and served as a police advisor during the war in Afghanistan. “We have a moral obligation to support those who have served shoulder to shoulder with us.” 

Currently, transcript evaluations assess foreign transcripts as part of an admission process for higher education institutions. These evaluations are used to establish a U.S.-equivalent GPA, verify the accreditation of the schools where the applicant obtained or will obtain their degree, and benchmark completed coursework to determine if the applicant has met the prerequisite coursework requirements for their intended program.

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Porfirio reacts to governor’s proposed budget: ‘We’re at a good starting point’

BURBANK – State Senator Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township) offered the following statement in response to Governor JB Pritzker’s proposed state budget for the upcoming fiscal year:

“We’re at a good starting point with the budget as we begin negotiations. The proposed budget prioritizes fiscal responsibility, growing the Rainy Day Fund to over $2.3 billion. The emphasis on education, senior services, public safety and support for veterans reflects our commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of residents across our community.

“Investing in education is crucial for contributing to progress. I am proud to see increases in funding for all levels of education that will help our next generation excel and increase access to programs for working families.

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Porfirio commends appointment of Bridgeview Village Trustee Kalid Baste to Illinois Muslim American Advisory Council

BURBANK – State Senator Mike Porfirio offered congratulatory remarks for Village of Bridgeview Trustee Kalid Baste following Baste’s appointment to serve on the Illinois Muslim American Advisory Council.

“The extensive experience of Trustee Baste made him an excellent candidate for this role,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I’m glad that his knowledge will be used to benefit both our community and the state of Illinois.”

The purpose of the council is to advise the Governor and the General Assembly on policy issues impacting Muslim Americans, advance the role of civic participation and enhance trade and cooperation between other countries and Illinois. Porfirio recommended Baste for the position due to his work with businesses and nonprofits in Bridgeview and other communities. Trustee Baste’s appointment was met with praise from local mayors.

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Porfirio encourages eligible households to apply for utility bill assistance

BURBANK – The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is now open to all income-eligible households, and State Senator Mike Porfirio is urging eligible families to apply to receive assistance with natural gas, propane and electricity bills.

“This program provides vital support to families who need energy bill assistance,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Ensuring that families can afford electricity, heating and water will safeguard our residents against financial hardship and promote a healthy, secure living environment for all members of our communities. I encourage all eligible families to apply for assistance today.”

LIHEAP provides one-time payments directly to energy service providers on behalf of recipients. While the amount of support varies based on the needs of individual families, over 311,000 households received an average of $1,000 through LIHEAP last year.

All income-eligible households can now apply for assistance, and applications will be accepted through Aug. 15, 2024 or until funds are exhausted. The energy bill assistance offered through the Help Illinois Families Program in program year 2024 will provide $237 million to eligible families for help with utility bills.

For more information or to apply to the program, visit HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or your local agency.