SPRINGFIELD — To address the increase in suicide rates among veterans in the United States, State Senator Mike Porfirio has advanced legislation to extend the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Advisory Council.

“We must be consistent in our effort to support suicide prevention efforts for veterans,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This crisis will not solve itself; I will continue to urgently support new treatment solutions for our dedicated service members.”

SPRINGFIELD – The Northern Illinois Transit Authority Act, a historic investment into public transit, passed the Senate thanks to support from State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“In the 11^th District, we have commuters who travel in and out of Chicago every day, navigating complex public transit transfers and changes,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “This legislation aims to create a seamless system for commuters and residents, while also prioritizing safety for all.”

Senate Bill 2111 would create the Northern Illinois Transit Authority – known as NITA – shifting authority from the Regional Transit Authority to the new entity that will oversee the CTA, Metra and Pace with the goal to create an integrated, coordinated system with a single fare. The NITA board would be comprised of 20 members, with five appointments each from the governor, mayor of Chicago and Cook County Board president, as well as one from each chair or county executive of the collar county boards of DuPage, Kane, McHenry, Lake and Will.

BURBANK — State Senator Mike Porfirio is urging the federal administration to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the halt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"SNAP benefits that help feed thousands of residents in my community and millions across the country should never be at risk because of political disagreements," said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I am calling for the federal administration to ensure that families in need are fed and that food security is prioritized."

SPRINGFIELD — Teachers in Illinois community colleges will see stronger job protections from artificial intelligence thanks to a new law led by State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“The job our teachers do in the classroom is irreplaceable,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “AI cannot build the welcoming learning environments or trusting relationships that our teachers can with students. Our students learn best when they know their teacher is invested in their growth.”