CHICAGO – State Senator Ram Villivalam applauded news Monday that the Regional Transportation Authority has provided 25,000 transit passes loaded with $20 each to The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence, an Illinois membership organization advocating to end domestic violence through training, education and policy advocacy.

“Access to safe and reliable transportation is one barrier that victims and survivors of domestic violence face on a day-to-day basis. This program will provide access and allow them to safely travel throughout the region to access essential services and opportunities to move forward,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “As Chair of the Senate Transportation committee, ensuring that public transportation is accessible, equitable and reliable for all riders is one of my top priorities, and this program helps us achieve those goals.”

This initiative is the result of House Bill 1342, Villivalam’s public transportation package that was signed into law earlier this year and includes several initiatives aimed at addressing some of transit’s most pressing challenges. Villivalam and Buckner worked closely with The Network and the RTA along with transit operators CTA, Metra and Pace to craft the legislation.

Last week I met with advocates for after-school funding and stood with them in support of $50 million going toward our after-school programing. I say that it’s time to prioritize and value after-school programing. Two schools I represent serve primarily low-income and minority families and students who rely on these programs. It is imperative that we secure this funding for our working-class and middle-class families.

CHICAGO – Three months after Governor JB Pritzker vetoed a bill that would provide halal and kosher food options to students upon request in Illinois public schools in addition to those options being available at state facilities and the University of Illinois Hospital, State Senator Ram Villivalam passed a measure that was agreed upon by stakeholders and the governor.

“I am proud of our collaborative work to make the technical changes requested by the governor to ensure the successful implementation of this legislation,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “We are recognizing the cultural needs of our community and this is a big step for families who eat kosher or halal. Everyone deserves to have an option that fits their needs and feel included.”

Villivalam worked alongside the governor to pass an agreed-upon bill that will provide culturally appropriate lunches to those who request.

“This bill will allow students to have halal and kosher lunch options regardless of where they reside in the state of Illinois,” said State Representative Kevin Olickal (D-Skokie). “This is yet another example of Illinois' commitment to being a welcoming and accepting state.”

Specifically in public schools, the legislation would require the Illinois State Board of Education to enter into statewide master contracts from vendors across the state and give school districts access to the contract so they can more efficiently provide meals to students.