SPRINGFIELD — Individuals with asthma will soon see significant savings on their prescription inhalers thanks to a new law from State Senator Mattie Hunter.

“As someone with asthma, I know the importance of having access to an inhaler — and the cost that comes with it,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “People shouldn’t be faced with financial hardship when it comes to essential medication.”

Under the new law, health insurance providers cannot deny or limit coverage for prescription inhalers, and insured individuals will pay no more than $25 for a 30-day supply of their inhaler.

CHICAGO — With the help of federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, a building within the 3rd Senate District will be turned into additional affordable housing units, State Senator Mattie Hunter announced.

“The dilapidated and crumbling building at the southeast corner of Western and 63rd will finally be demolished and new housing will take its place,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I’m a strong supporter of the creation of additional affordable housing opportunities, not just in my district but across Illinois.”

A total of $23.8 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits will finance the creation and preservation of 16 affordable housing developments in 10 counties across Illinois. Once completed, the developments will offer 792 affordable units for low- to moderate-income families, seniors and people with disabilities. Southwest Organizing Project in Chicago is among awardees for the development at 6301 S. Western Ave.

CHICAGO — Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Mattie Hunter, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of more than $1.2 million for bridge improvements along I-55.

“The Rebuild Illinois plan continues to bring much-needed improvements and investments throughout our state,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By modernizing our infrastructure and prioritizing safer roads and bridges, we are creating good-paying jobs and improving connectivity among our communities.”

As part of IDOT’s latest Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, $1.2 million will go toward bridge work at Michigan Avenue and the Stevenson Expressway within Hunter’s district.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement after the Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget:

“This budget upholds our commitment to supporting Illinois families while prioritizing investments in our youth, health care systems and social services, laying the foundation for an equitable future for residents across our state.

“Building on our promise to our state’s youngest, this plan allocates funding for K-12 education and need-based grants, ensuring every child has access to quality learning environments from early childhood to higher education. A $200 million investment in after-school and summer youth programs will provide safe, enriching spaces for children to learn, grow and develop socially.