CHICAGO – In the wake of the latest police shooting in Chicago, Sen. Mattie Hunter is calling for legislation to require Chicago’s police department to increase crisis intervention training and availability and use of non-lethal devices, such as Tasers.

“Every police car should be equipped with a Taser or similar, non-lethal device.  We are seeing tragic incidents of people shot and killed when no one’s life is at risk. Lethal force should be a last resort, not a first response. In this day and age, alternative resources and technology exist that should be utilized,” said Hunter.

In addition to expanded availability of non-lethal devices, Hunter wants additional crisis intervention training for officers and dispatchers so responding officers are better prepared for handling situations involving domestic violence and people with mental health issues.

CHICAGO – In response to University of Chicago’s announcement of a $40 million investment in expanding their hospital to include a Level 1 trauma center on Chicago’s South Side, Sen. Mattie Hunter released the following statement:

“Chicago’s South Side is long overdue for a level 1 trauma center. While I am glad the University of Chicago is invested in our community, this is only the first step. Residents in Englewood and farther south west still need resources for trauma care,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter, who has stood at the forefront of this issue. “I hope the medical community will continue to invest in facilities that will help all of our residents.”

Families from around Chicago gathered for the third annual National Vigil for Violence Prevention on Friday. Senator Mattie Hunter joined them in praying and standing up against violence in their neighborhoods.

“We must fight to win this war against crime, violence and apathy. There are no easy solutions, only hard choices about what we will and will not accept in our community,” said Hunter of the 3rd Senate District.

Cook County residents soon will receive $93.94 million in critical funding for LIHEAP, winter road maintenance and local shares of video gaming and motor fuel tax revenue.

“I voted so that vulnerable residents and seniors could receive the energy assistance they deserve,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago, 3). “Hopefully Governor Rauner will stand with us and sign this bill so our local communities can receive critical funding.”

The Senate approved legislation today to free up gas tax money for Cook County residents and recipients of LIHEAP. According to last year’s estimates, Cook County received $93.94 million in gas tax dollars, while the state received $275.53 million.