Dupage Policy Journal

Senator Seth Lewis, who represents Illinois' 24th Senate District, has announced several updates and community initiatives in his August newsletter.

Residents of the 24th Senate District can reserve a free museum pass card from Lewis's office. The card allows up to four people to access a variety of Chicagoland museums and zoos, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, and others. The passes are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and must be used on the reserved date.

In July, Lewis partnered with State Representatives Amy Grant and Jennifer Sanalitro for several outreach events. These included a Senior Fair in Roselle, an IPASS event in Wheaton, and an Illinois Department of Licensing & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) assistance session in Carol Stream. At the IDFPR event, 188 licensing cases were resolved. Lewis stated that his office continues to organize events for residents throughout the year.

Upcoming community events include:

- An ICASH/Unclaimed Property Event on August 27 at Warrenville Park District Building.

- A Senior Expo on August 28 at Wheaton Park District Building.

- A Children’s Safety Expo on September 13 at Erickson Elementary School.

- A Disability Resource and Job Placement Expo on September 18 at Fountain View Recreation Center.

- A Free Document Shredding Event on October 25 at Wheaton Park District Building.

Lewis also reported that legislation aimed at regulating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) was signed into law on July 1. House Bill 1697 prohibits spread pricing by PBMs, prevents them from directing patients to preferred pharmacies they own, and requires that all rebates go back to patients or plan sponsors. Supporters believe this measure will help curb rising prescription costs across Illinois. "This proposal was a critical step toward restoring fairness in the pharmacy system and holding down costs for prescriptions," Lewis said.

The Illinois General Assembly launched an updated website on July 1 (www.ilga.gov), featuring a modern design and changes to constituent engagement tools such as witness slips. The new system allows individuals to submit their opinions about bills being considered in committee through an online process outlined by Lewis. He noted: "Submitting a witness slip is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your voice heard in Springfield."

Lewis shared safety tips from state agencies for dealing with hot weather this summer, including hydration advice, clothing recommendations, information about cooling centers (https://keepcool.illinois.gov/), and reminders not to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has added 18 more professions available for licensure through its new Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment (CORE) system. Phase two is nearing completion with expanded healthcare-related licenses now available for new applicants online.

The Illinois Department of Revenue reminded taxpayers who missed the April deadline that they have until October 15 to file returns due to an automatic six-month extension; however, payments owed were still due by April 15.

Finally, the Illinois State Police graduated its largest cadet class in twenty-five years with ninety-five new troopers reporting for duty after completing training.

Lewis was elected as state senator for the district in 2023 as a Republican candidate replacing Suzy Glowiak. More details about these programs are available through his official channels.