October Newsletter 🍁

District Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Happy Turkey Time, everyone! October was a packed month; veto session, community events, and plenty of Halloween cheer (and candy!) to go around. Stick around to the end of the newsletter for new info on LIHEAP and the IL Tax Amnesty Program. First a couple of updates around the office, and then we'll jump into our veto session recap. Let's hop in! District Office Updates Community Food Drive Over 7,000 people in the 51st District have had their SNAP benefits threatened by recent actions by the federal government. Although the USDA has signaled compliance with court orders to distribute SNAP contingency funds, delays and uncertainty remain. Our office launched a community food drive to help support local food pantries, continuing through November 19th. We have already been so humbled by our community's generosity.   Know Your Rights Training Our office is partnering with State Representative Anna Moeller and Hanover Township Assessor Khaja Moinuddin to host a Know Your Rights presentation and training led by Centro de Información.  This is a great opportunity to learn what to do if approached by ICE or CBP, get important information on your legal rights, how to identify a judicial warrant, and available community resources.  Event details: Date: Monday, November 17 Time: 7 – 8 PM Register here: https://signup.com/go/ebUXTXw   Government Access Fair Ever wonder which office to call for a certain issue, or how local, county, state, and federal governments all fit together? The Government Access Fair is your opportunity to meet the outreach teams who work every day to connect residents with services and information. Learn how each level of government plays a role in your daily life and how, together, they help make our communities stronger. Our office will be there to share resources, answer questions, and help you navigate state services! 📅 Thursday, November 20 🕕 6 – 8 PM 📍 Palatine Library District (700 N. North Ct., Palatine) Registration is optional → https://tinyurl.com/CantyGovFair We hope to see you there! 👋   Monthly Office Hours 📚 Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries. Please join us for our December Office Hours! Office Closed for Thanksgiving 🦃 Our district office will be closed from Wednesday, November 26 through Friday, November 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. If you need to get in touch with our team, please email info@repsyed.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. We wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday! 🍁 🏛️ Legislative Update 🏛️ The Illinois General Assembly just wrapped up its veto session. We passed bills addressing several key issues, including energy costs, property tax relief, and public transit. Energy Affordability As power demands continue to increase, energy costs have been rising for Illinois residents. Projections indicated that without intervention, Illinoisans could see $9.5 billion in increased energy costs by 2034. The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act was passed during veto session to moderate these cost increases. The legislation allows surplus power generated by home solar panels and other renewable sources to be redistributed across the system to help bring down costs for all customers. It also increases battery storage capacity to capture and store energy for times when renewable sources are not actively generating power. Lastly, the bill expands energy efficiency programs for residents, with dedicated funding levels for low-income customers to help reduce overall demand and lower electricity prices. Property Tax Relief for Seniors As costs of living continue to rise, Social Security cost-of-living adjustments have inadvertently pushed some low-income seniors above the income threshold for property tax relief programs. This has meant that some of our most vulnerable seniors have lost access to the senior property tax freeze, which helps older adults on fixed incomes manage their housing costs. New legislation raises the income threshold for the senior citizens' property tax freeze to $75,000 and the property tax deferral program. These adjustments will help seniors maintain access to property tax relief even as their Social Security income increases with inflation. Increasing the senior freeze income cap over the next couple of years brings us back to where we were in 2018, the last time the income threshold was raised. So long as COLA adjustments remain indexed to inflation and our senior relief does not, we will need to periodically revisit this issue in the General Assembly. That said, the update to the senior freeze income cap was sorely needed, allowing more of our seniors to maintain their eligibility to reduce their property tax burdens and stay in their homes. Public Transit Reform Illinois' public transit system serves millions of residents and is essential for businesses and communities across the state. After heated discussions last spring and during veto session, the general assembly passed a $1.5 billion funding package to keep our transit system going. The legislation establishes the Northern Illinois Transit Agency (NITA), a new oversight agency meant to create more transparency in the transit system. NITA will include new internal and independent auditors to improve financial oversight and will be required to maintain a reserve fund for financial stability. The agency will work to create uniformity in fares and service planning to better serve riders across the region. The legislation also addresses public safety. A multijurisdictional law enforcement team will assist with security, while transit ambassadors will be deployed to assist people experiencing mental health crises. A permanent office of safety will handle long-term planning to improve safety for both riders and transit workers. More reforms in how NITA is funded are anticipated for the 2026 spring session. Federal Immigration Enforcement Impacts During veto session, legislation was passed to establish protections in certain settings: healthcare facilities will be required to adopt policies concerning law enforcement presence; individuals appearing at courthouses for jury duty, traffic matters, or other official business will have protections in place; and educational institutions including colleges and daycare centers will implement policies to protect students and children in their care, including the disclosure of immigration status. These measures aim to ensure that certain spaces remain accessible and safe for all community members to access necessary services and fulfill civic obligations. I co-authored an article in the Chicago Sun Times on this topic. For those who are unaware, Chappie's Cafe in Palatine was forced to close its doors on November 2nd. It had been open for four years, thriving despite its launch while a pandemic was raging. Now it's gone. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents had repeatedly visited the restaurant in the past weeks. Customers stopped coming, and business slowed to a trickle. Finally, the owners had to close their doors. This is a story that is playing out across the district and beyond. The bill we passed during veto session was a start, but we must address the human impact ICE's tactics is leaving on our communities. District Highlights ✨ Museum Pass Requests 🦖 If you’re looking for last-minute ways to make the most of the season, check out our museum pass! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Note: As our office will be closed from Wednesday 26 - Friday 27 for the Thanksgiving holiday, please complete the form by 5 PM on Monday, November 24th before we close submissions for the holiday if you are looking to visit a museum during this time. Museum Pass Request Form In the Community! A Candy-Bag Full of Halloween Events! First, we joined in the fun at Buehler YMCA's Halloween Family night. So many families came out to enjoy the evening filled with candy and costumes! Then we had a great time at Harper College's 4th Annual Trunk or Treat. So many creative costumes, and we got to chat with constituents, too! Finally, our office joined the volunteers for the Clean Up, Give Back Palatine's Soup-er Halloween Clean Up. It's always inspiring to see neighbors coming together to care for our community! Visit their website to learn more if you want to get involved!     Cricket Day at Buehler YMCA! I had a blast at the Buehler YMCA’s Community Cricket Day, where people had the opportunity to learn about the basics of the game from a local coach! After learning how to play the game, we had a chance to try it out for ourselves. It was great to see our community come together to learn about a new sport! 🏏     My Density Matters Walk the Lake I was honored to join My Density Matters in their annual Walk the Lake in Lake Zurich to raise awareness about breast cancer and to honor survivors and loved ones. I had the honor of partnering with them during the last legislative session to help pass HB4180, which now requires insurance to cover molecular breast imaging screenings for individuals with dense breast tissue. This work is critical because breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women and the leading cause of cancer death in women here in Illinois. The good news is that it's treatable, especially when caught early. That's why awareness, access, and early detection are so important. You can learn more about My Density Matters and their mission at: mydensitymatters.org Additionally, the State of Illinois offers free mammograms and other breast cancer screenings, regardless of insurance status. To find out more or to schedule a screening, visit: www.illinois.gov/services/service.breast-cancer-screen.html Congratulations to Faith Feeds! It was wonderful to join the Faith Feeds team to celebrate their new, expanded facilities! Their new walk-in cooler and freezer will help food storage and distribution, allowing them to continue to fight food insecurity across our community. I'm so grateful for all of the incredible work they do! Foglia YMCA Lobby Renovations Complete! Speaking of ribbon cuttings, congratulations to the Foglia YMCA for their beautiful new lobby! The Foglia YMCA refreshed their lobby for the first time in nearly 25 years! 😎 The newly renovated space includes an interactive schedule, displaying a full week of activities and classes, a great addition that makes it easy for members to see what’s coming up. IASB Legislative Dinner It was great connecting with local school board members, superintendents, and education leaders at the Illinois Association of School Boards Lake Division Legislative Dinner. I was honored to discuss state and federal funding, chronic absenteeism, and mental health support for students. I'm always grateful for the partnership of our school board members and leaders who work tirelessly to strengthen education in Illinois. IARF Certificate of Recognition I was so honored to receive a Certificate of Recognition from the Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities for my continued support of intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health services in Illinois. Thank you to IARF for this recognition and for the important work you do every day to strengthen care, resources, and support for individuals and families across our state. YMCA Youth Policy Tasting Lastly, I had the opportunity to attend and speak at the YMCA's Youth Policy Tasting last month. Participants had the opportunity to speak with experts in education, government, tech, and more! It was inspiring to hear from students why they chose to get involved with the program. Many shared that they hoped to pursue careers in government or other sectors that help others. I am grateful for the opportunity to sit with this group of passionate students, hear their stories and share my experiences. Thank you again to the YMCA for hosting us! Community Updates Events Navigating Cook County's Legal System The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County is partnering with other elected offices and agencies to give an explanation of different legal resources available. It will be held at Harper College on Saturday, November 15th, from 10 am to noon! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! Lastly, our website is a great resource! It is regularly updated with community events, resources, and more. Updates Navigating Cook County's Legal System Stop by the Palatine Township Senior Center this Friday or Saturday for their annual Winter Wonderland shopping experience. Discover beautiful handmade gifts, stunning holiday decor and themed gift baskets perfect for everyone on your list. Don't miss their famous Cookie Walk either! Learn More Here State, County and Federal Updates and Resources LIHEAP Applications Now Open! LIHEAP eligibility has opened for non-senior applicants! Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until August 15th, 2026, or until funds run out. Be sure to apply! Apply Here! IDPH Fall Vaccine Guidance Following extensive scientific review, the Illinois Department of Public Health released its public health guidelines for this fall. With a third measles case now confirmed in suburban Cook County, it is more important than ever that we follow vaccine recommendations as we push deeper into the fall flu season. Keep your loved ones safe! Learn More Here Updates on EV Rebate Program The Illinois EPA opened the next Electric Vehicle Rebate Program funding round on October 28, 2025, running through January 31, 2026. Illinois residents who purchase a new or used all-electric vehicle from an Illinois licensed dealer and meet eligibility requirements can apply for a rebate. Low-income applicants are eligible for enhanced rebates and priority disbursement. $14 million has been appropriated for this round, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis—apply early if you are eligible. Learn More Here! Tax Amnesty Program Taxpayers have the opportunity to pay outstanding eligible tax liabilities and have related penalties and interest forgiven, provided the taxes are paid in full during the amnesty period. An eligible tax liability is tax debt due from periods ending after June 30, 2018, and prior to July 1, 2024. Eligible tax liabilities and returns must be paid and filed in full October 1, 2025, through November 17, 2025, to qualify for the waiver of penalty and interest. Learn More Here! Rise in DMV Text Scam Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” that threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges. The text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into giving up personal or financial information. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. “Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.” The office only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status. Illinoisans are encouraged to report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov. REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information or visit our grants page on our website. Sign up to join our grant listserv! Visit our Grants Page Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com If you have any inquiries or are facing a challenge with a state-related service, our office may be able to help you! Please complete our constituent services inquiry form. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

September Newsletter 🍂

District Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Hey there, friends! As autumn slowly settles in and the leaves begin to turn, our team has been hard at work connecting with neighbors across the 51st District. Throughout September, we’ve been out in the community, hosting office hours at local libraries, attending resource fairs, and engaging at neighborhood events, to ensure our office stays accessible, responsive, and in tune with the needs of our constituents. With the legislative veto session approaching, we're preparing to tackle important issues that affect our communities - you will find more information further down in this newsletter. Meanwhile, we continue to offer services through our district office and connect residents with the resources they need. Our next office hours are on Wednesday, October 15th! We also have new programs for utility and property tax relief opening for applications; see below to apply! Hang around for updates on upcoming events, community resources, and more! 🦇 District Office Updates Monthly Office Hours 📚 Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Our next office hours are on October 15th. Please note that Representative Syed will be in Springfield for Veto Session during this time, but our team will be there to meet constituents and address concerns. We continue to partner with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County. If you or a loved one are a veteran, VACCC will be there to connect you with the benefits you've earned. We want to hear from you; stop by and say hi! Spook-tacular Events! Our office will have a table at the following spook-tacular events! They may look scary, but we promise that they are family friendly! Shoes Donation Drive Collection Our office is honored to partner with Clean Up, Give Back, Palatine for a shoe donation drive! As we get fall started, please consider donating gently used shoes to our office. 🏛️Legislative Update🏛️ The General Assembly reconvenes on October 14th for our fall veto session. This year we're expecting to tackle some critical issues that didn't make it across the finish line during the general session. Three major priorities are on the agenda this time around. Energy Affordability Virtually all of us saw our electric bills this summer climb to keep our air conditioners running. Power prices have spiked due to surging demand--driven in large part by the growth of data centers supporting artificial intelligence use. Veto session is expected to include legislation promoting the development of utility-scale battery storage projects. If we can store electricity during off-peak hours and dispatch it when demand is highest, strain on the grid will stabilize and keep costs more manageable. The 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act set hard deadlines for closing natural gas power plants. Although it is critical that we move from fossil fuel dependence as soon as possible, the 2021 legislation didn't anticipate the strain that data centers would put on the grid. The proposed legislation would lift Illinois' four-decade moratorium on new nuclear plants and work to make our energy more reliable. We're unlikely to see immediate relief on electric bills from these bills, but taking action now is essential if we want to prevent the problem from getting worse and build a more resilient energy grid for Illinois. Homeowners Insurance Rates State Farm announced this past summer it was raising rates in Illinois by an average of 27.2%. It's difficult to reconcile a rate increase of this size, especially given the relatively safe living environment for Illinois homes. Insurance companies point to severe weather and climate change as drivers of the increase, but it looks likely that Illinois residents are being asked to subsidize losses from hurricanes, wildfires, and other extreme weathers in other, higher-risk areas of the country. The Illinois Department of Insurance doesn't have the same oversight over property casualty insurance that it does over, for example, healthcare insurance. Without review over private rate increases, Illinois homeowners are vulnerable to rate hikes like the one we're seeing. Either in veto session or in an upcoming legislative session, we may see legislation to bring more transparency and fairness to review price hikes like this one. Illinoisans shouldn't pay more than they have to. Public Transit Reform We've discussed in the past how the Chicago Metropolitan Area is facing a $771 million transit funding gap for 2026. Federal COVID-19 relief running out, coupled with changes in ridership patterns, could result in up to 40% service cuts across the CTA, Metra, and pace, with some rail lines and routes entirely eliminated. During the spring session, the Senate passed a reform bill, but the House didn't vote on it before adjournment. That bill would replace the Regional Transportation Authority with a new Northern Illinois Transit Authority, with some changes to its funding structure in the process. We are likely to see a new version of this bill in the coming weeks. Public transit represents economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and quality of life for millions of residents. Clean Water and Accountability Lastly, I want to address the recent issues with Aqua Illinois. On September 5th, Aqua Illinois had another water main break, forcing a precautionary boil order for residents in Lake County, including Kildeer and Hawthorn Woods. For many residents, it was déjà vu; they still remember July 2023, when similar issues left them without drinkable water for a full week. People do not need clean water to be run like a business. The value of municipal water systems does not grow, except by expanding private ownership to new systems. Repairs and maintenance ware not profitable, and they don't translate well onto quarterly earnings reports. I support bills like SB 75, which makes it harder for private water utilities to acquire new systems without more investment and due diligence. This legislation would require a public referendum before any private utility company can acquire local water services, giving community members a direct voice. Acquisition should be thoughtful and regulated, not just a transaction between desperate municipalities and utilities looking to expand at a discount. We cannot afford for this kind of mismanagement to become our new normal. Clean water is a right. District Highlights ✨ Museum Pass Requests 🦖 If you’re looking for last-minute ways to make the most of the season, check out our museum pass! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form In the Community! Lincoln Elementary's Back-to-School Bash! Our office was invited to table at Lincoln Elementary's Back to School Bash! It was so much fun connecting with students and families and answering your questions. Wishing all of the students a great start to the year! Congratulations to the Deer Grove East Forest Preserve! I had the opportunity to join President Toni Preckwinkle, OpenLands, and the Cook County Forest Preserve, all to celebrate the enormous successes of the Deer Grove East Forest Preserve's prairie and wetland restoration work for the past 20 years! The large-scale restoration project offsets the ecological impacts of O'Hare Airport's expansion, which displaced acres of prairie and wetland. Over 530 acres of natural land have been restored, in addition to 1,620 acres of protected land for the project. I was so proud to get to share the moment celebrating so much hard work and collaboration between our communities. Congratulations! Buehler YMCA's Welcome Week Buehler YMCA's Welcome Week hosted an event centered on how immigrants shape our community! Viator House, an organization focused on safe housing for young asylum seekers, shared ways we can show up in support of our immigrant neighbors. As a daughter of immigrants, I truly appreciated seeing Buehler YMCA and Viator House collaborate to make a space welcoming our immigrant community! Palatine Oktober Fest! I spent some time volunteering with Palatine Cool Cities to help sort compost, recycling, and trash for the Palatine Oktoberfest. Wonderful getting the chance to connect with the community and enjoy the music! Thanks again to the Rotary Club of Palatine for putting on the event! New Park Additions to Rolling Meadow's Community Center It was great to join the Rolling Meadows Park District to celebrate the unveiling of new amenities at the Community Center Park! The project includes new pickleball courts, a mini golf course, fitness court, and more, all made possible through a $600,000 OSLAD Grant.  Congratulations to everyone who helped bring this wonderful community space to life! 🌳 Partner's for our Communities Teen Group Meeting I ended September by meeting with Partners for our Communities’ student group! We started off by covering the basics: what a bill is, how an idea becomes a bill, and the process it goes through to become law, involving both the legislative and executive branches.  I also had the opportunity to share my experiences with them growing up in the Palatine area, and many students shared similar experiences coming from an immigrant family. I had a wonderful time talking with this bright group of students. It gives me hope for a brighter future. New Lurie Children's Hospital Facility I joined community leaders and health care professionals to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new Lurie Children’s Hospital facility in Schaumburg. This location includes an ambulatory infusion center that will provide critical care and support not only for our community, but for families across the region. We are deeply grateful for this investment in children's health and for the dedicated providers who make it possible. Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce Thanks to the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce for inviting me to their Illinois Legislative Luncheon for the third year in a row! It's great to connect with the small business community of the district, take questions, and hear what they have to say. We discussed small business support, insurance affordability, property taxes, federal changes, and more. I look forward to taking the insights from conversations like these into the next session! Community Updates and Resources Student Opportunities Lake County Fellowship for Early to Mid Professionals The Lake County Liderazgo Initiative is holding its first leadership development seminar! Early to mid career professionals and community members deeply connected to the Latino community in Lake County are encouraged to apply! Apply Here! Career Development for Youth Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here!   Spanish Basic Computer Skills Courses Available!   Youth Global Program Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! Events and Resources! Second Chance Summit! Palatine's Candy Crawl Donate Menstrual Supplies! March for our Lives Palatine is Hiring Birth to Five Illinois is Hiring Birth to Five Illinois Resources IDPH Fall Vaccine Guidance Following extensive scientific review, the Illinois Department of Public Health released its public health guidelines for this fall. With a third measles case now confirmed in suburban Cook County, it is more important than ever that we follow vaccine recommendations as we push deeper into the fall flu season. Keep your loved ones safe! Learn More Here OMNI in Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! Lastly, our website is a great resource! It is regularly updated with community events, resources, and more. Learn More Here State, County and Federal Updates and Resources LIHEAP Applications Now Open! As of October 1st there are new options available for those looking for assistance with utility bills. LIHEAP funding applications will be taken on a first come first serve basis until August 15, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. October 1st includes households with an older adult, age 60 and over, households with a person living with a disability, families with children aged 5 and under, and households who are disconnected from one or more of their utilities or in jeopardy of being disconnected from one or both utilities can apply! Starting November 1st, all eligible households can apply for LIHEAP (including the first group, still!). Apply Here! Cook County Homeowner Relief Fund! Cook County has launched the Cook County Homeowner Relief Fund, a $15 million program that will assist households that have experienced a substantial increase on their property tax bills in recent years. The program will provide one-time payments of $1,000 to eligible households while funding lasts. Eligible households have a property tax bill increase of at least 50% in the 2021, 2022, or 2023 tax years, and a 2024 income at or below 100% of the Cook County Area Median Income for the applicant's household size. Applications for the Relief Fund are open through October 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Learn More Here! Apply Here! Rise in DMV Text Scam Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” that threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges. The text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into giving up personal or financial information. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. “Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.” The office only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status. Illinoisans are encouraged to report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov. REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  State Services and Programs 📣 Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com If you have any inquiries or are facing a challenge with a state-related service, our office may be able to help you! Please complete our constituent services inquiry form. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

Summer Newsletter 🌽

District Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Hey there!  Our team has been busy across the District this summer. We’ve been hosting events, meeting with neighbors, and supporting local organizations. In July, we joined Alpine Fest celebrations in Lake Zurich, welcomed a local business to Palatine, co-hosted a successful blood drive and I-PASS event, and wrapped up a remarkable year with our Youth Advisory Council. We’re working to make sure our office is present, accessible, and supportive in every corner of the 51st District. Up next, we have office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries on August 20, with our partners from the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County. Keep reading for more community events, resources, and updates! District Office Updates Monthly Office Hours 📚 Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! Our next office hours are on August 20th. We're proud to have partnered with the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County; if you or a loved one are a veteran, VACCC is here to connect you with the benefits you've earned! We hope to see you there! Had a great time at our office hours last month! District Highlights ✨ Museum Pass Requests 🦖 As summer winds down, if you’re looking for last-minute ways to make the most of the season, check out our museum pass! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form In the Community! Alpine Fest Our office got the chance to meet with community members and enjoy during this year's Alpine Fest. Thanks to the Lions Club of Lake Zurich for holding the 80th Alpine Fest last month! Congratulations to MOTW Coffee and Pastries! Thanks again to MOTW Coffee and Pastries for inviting me to their ribbon cutting! Welcome to one of the newest small businesses in the district! They're on 1440 Algonquin Road, Palatine, if you want to check them out! Versiti Blood Drive and I-PASS On Demand Thanks to the Versiti Blood Bank and I-PASS On Demand Teams for co-hosting another great event with us this past month! Whether you came in to trade in your white transponder boxes for sticker tags, or to donate blood (or both!) we are so grateful to have participated in making this event a success! Kiddie Academy Visit I had a wonderful time reading to the bright young minds at Kiddie Academy with a special guest, Clifford the Big Red Dog. 📚🐾 Kiddie Academy in Arlington Heights is owned by a constituent in the 51st District who is working hard to ensure that quality and strong early childcare and childhood education options exist in our community. Grateful for the work they do and I’m excited to hear of their growing impact in our community! Teaching Chess to our Students! It was such a pleasure to meet with Knights of the Future! This teen-led nonprofit in our community is teaching our students chess and bumping up their math scores in the bargain! They're helping students build problem solving, critical thinking, and strategy on and off the board; thanks to Knights of the Future for all the work they do! Student Engagement The Youth Advisory Council has finished their work for the year! Our last meeting distributed funding to the students' chosen nonprofits! Congratulations to the Myopia Project, Girlcon, Chesspupils, March for Our Lives Palatine Chapter, Youth Engagement in Society, and the Buffalo Grove Environmental Action Team! Thank you to each of these organizations for the fantastic work they do! None of this could have been possible without our youth Advisors, whose consistent work and diligence empowered them to connect with their community across the district. Thank you to our Advisors; we can't wait to see what these students get up to next! The past month also marked the end of this year's Fellowship program. Over the course of the program, it was an absolute privilege to work alongside these students as they researched, wrote, debated, and presented their legislative policies. In an environment where there are ugly signs all around, it brings a real smile to our corner of the world to see that the leaders of tomorrow are more ready than ever to put their best feet forward. All the best to our Fellows! Thank you for another fantastic program! Community Updates and Resources Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! Youth Global Program Knights of the Future: Youth Chess Group Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! More Resources! Cook County Health Measles Toolkit Although eradicated in 2000 after the proliferation of the MMR vaccine, measles has now returned to our communities. The number of unvaccinated students in suburban Cook County schools has almost doubled over the last decade, from 6,401 in the 2014-2015 school year to 12,510 in the 2024-2025 school year. Cook County Health's Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Kiran Joshi, said that "This isn't just a health issue, it's a misinformation crisis." To combat the misinformation that has fueled the unnecessary return of this deadly disease, CCH has released the Measles Awareness Toolkit. Please stay informed and distribute the information across your networks to keep our communities informed and safe. Access the Measles Awareness Toolkit March for our Lives Palatine is Hiring Birth to Five Childcare Resources Birth to Five Family Council OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! Lastly, our website is a great resource! It is regularly updated with community events, resources, and more. State and Federal Updates and Resources ComEd Customeler Relief Fund Closure ComEd launched the Customer Relief Fund in July to support residences and nonprofits. Due to demand, ComEd has now closed the fund to future applications. The Relief Fund was launched as a stopgap until the January 2026 Low-Income Discount program. For now, ComEd has directed consumers to its help page, which includes some other resources to provide utility relief to those that need it. Learn About Alternative Utility Relief Options Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Rise in DMV Text Scam Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” that threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges. The text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into giving up personal or financial information. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. “Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.” The office only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status. Illinoisans are encouraged to report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov. REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  State Services and Programs 📣 Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com If you have any inquiries or are facing a challenge with a state-related service, our office may be able to help you! Please complete our constituent services inquiry form. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

July Newsletter 🏖️

Legislative Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Happy July!  I hope everyone enjoyed their 4th! This past month, we continued our work with our Youth Advisory Council and Fellowship, got involved with events across the district, and had our Legislative Recap Town Hall!  Keep reading for details about our community engagement, upcoming events, and more! District Office Updates Blood Drive & I-PASS Event We are excited to invite you to our second blood drive of the year! This time, we will be joined with the I-PASS on Demand Team who will offer an array of services, including issuing new sticker transponders! Bonus: if you bring your white transponder to be recycled you can get $10 credited to your account. Lastly, walk-ins are welcome to meet with both the I-PASS and Versiti team, however registration is highly encouraged for the blood drive. Register below or visit repnabeelasyed.org/blooddrive25 Blood Drive Registration  Blood Drive FAQs Monthly Office Hours 📚 Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! Our next office hours is on July 22nd. We hope to see you there! Museum Pass Requests 🦖 Looking for fun summer plans? Look no further! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form 🏛️Legislative Highlights🏛️ I had the pleasure of co-hosting a legislative town hall with Representative Mary Beth Canty, sharing updates from our productive 2025 legislative session. It was wonderful to connect with constituents and walk through the progress we've made on the issues that matter most to our communities. We covered a lot of ground during our time together! Representative Canty and I discussed healthcare reforms, maternal and reproductive health protections, legislation supporting seniors, school and youth safety measures, public safety improvements, environmental protections, transit reform challenges, budget priorities, and more! For anyone who didn’t get the chance to attend, let’s dive in! On Healthcare Healthcare reform has been one of my top legislative priorities since taking office. HB1697, the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, tackles the practice of "spread pricing" where pharmacy benefit managers pocket the difference between what they charge insurance companies and what they actually pay pharmacies. This legislation ensures 100% of rebates get passed through to patients, putting money back in your pocket where it belongs. The legislature also eliminated barriers to mental healthcare with HB3019, removing prior authorization requirements for outpatient mental health and substance use treatment. Last, we discussed SB126, which mandates insurance companies cover FDA-approved Alzheimer's treatments. On the Budget Representative Canty and I spent considerable time walking through how the General Assembly passed a balanced $55.2 billion budget despite significant federal uncertainty. The legislature's spending priorities reflect our values: $11.2 billion for K-12 schools through Evidence-Based Funding that gets state dollars to the schools that need help most, and $11.03 billion for pension obligations—more than the minimum requirements to help address our long-term challenges.  Lawmakers increased health and human services funding by 4% to target the direct care worker shortage that's been closing facilities and creating waitlists for vulnerable populations. Recognizing the federal funding chaos, the General Assembly also created a $100 million emergency fund to maintain essential services rather than be forced to make emergency cuts mid-year. On Transit Reform We talked how public transit is critical infrastructure for our region's economy, which is why the legislature is working to address the $771 million shortfall facing our transit systems. This crisis stems from federal funding that's sunsetting (outside of the current administration), combined with lingering pandemic ridership disruptions. To address that shortfall, we talked about how we'll need to have a clear discussion of what positive reforms will occur; we need a guarantee that the money will used to keep the system running as well as possible for as many people as it can reach. HB3438, the transit reform package, will continue to be discussed during our October veto session. The proposal includes restructuring the RTA to become the Northern Illinois Transit Authority and pursuing new revenue sources—though these details are still being refined. Getting this right is essential for the millions of Illinoisans who depend on public transit for their daily lives and for our region's economic future. On Community Protection Measures Public safety remained a top priority for the General Assembly this session. We reviewed new legislation strengthening gun storage requirements when minors or at-risk individuals could access weapons (SB8), and how lawmakers improved our response to internet crimes against children through Alicia's Law (HB2586). The legislature also enhanced police accountability with new record-sharing systems for hiring decisions. On environmental protection, lawmakers took action against "forever chemicals" with HB2516, banning PFAS from everyday products like cosmetics, dental floss, and children's products.  We also spent significant time discussing how the General Assembly established a Climate Displacement Task Force to help our communities prepare for climate-related challenges. As climate change continues to progress, we're anticipating increasing strain on Illinois' infrastructure and services as people are displaced from other regions experiencing severe climate impacts.  Thank you so much to everyone who attended! I know that there were so many people who weren't able to come, but wanted to: We want to hear from you! The office's contact information is at the bottom of this newsletter. Get in touch! Watch our vlog here! District Highlights ✨ Save the Date! - Lake Zurich Alpine Fest Mark your calendars for the Lake Zurich Alpine Fest, which has been proudly put on by the Lions Club of Lake Zurich for an incredible 80 years! The festival opens Friday, July 18th at 6 PM and runs for three days filled with food, games, attractions, and music! Our office will have a table at the even on Sunday, July 20th and we hope to see you there! Learn more about the event here In the Community! Brightpoint's Annual Summer Block Party ☀️ What a way to kick off summer! Our team and student fellows had a blast at Brightpoint’s annual Summer Block Party in early June. Brightpoint is a community based organization focused on early childhood care and education, parent welfare, youth services, and more.  Our Fellows had the chance to learn more about Brightpoint’s work, connect with other organizations in the childcare field, and engage with the community. It was a great evening full of learning and connection! Supporting Fremd's Cheer Squad I stopped by to support Fremd Cheer’s car wash! It is well over 90 degrees today, but the cheer team was still out, raising money, and supporting their program. Go Vikes! 💚💛 Milestones at the Foglia YMCA It was exciting to join the Ribbon Cutting of Pat’s Playground this morning which is Foglia YMCA’s brand new, fully ADA accessible playground. This playground was made possible by the Foglia Family Foundation. This playground will be a source of joy for so many kids in our community and it was exciting to hear about the work done to make this possible! I’m also honored to receive the Illinois Alliance of YMCA’s Legislative Hero Award! It is an award presented to members of the General Assembly who have worked to further the YMCA mission either in district or in Springfield.  I love the work that both the Buehler and Foglia YMCA do in our community, and feel grateful for this recognition!  Meet Ria! 👋 Our Girls Lead Fellow Ria is our mentee from the Girls Lead program through the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Ria shadowed me for the day and we kicked it off with some meetings at our office, where Ria learned about legislative concerns from constituents. Then we visited Little City in the most southern end of the district and headed up to Foglia YMCA to accept an award. I had a wonderful time getting to know Ria more and learning about what drives her passion for public service. Little City is doing incredible work to support children and adults with developmental disabilities right here in the 51st District. I have deep appreciation for their work and am grateful for the opportunities to partner in advocacy to make our state a better state for the I/DD community. Congratulations to Daniel! It was an honor to join in celebrating Daniel at his Eagle Scout Ceremony this morning! Daniel earned his Eagle Scout rank, achieving the highest rank for a Boy Scout. Hearing how Daniel used his love for cooking to demonstrate leadership and his dedicated role as a mentor to Cubs Scouts was so heartwarming and inspiring. A big congratulations to Daniel and his family! 💙 Youth Engagement in Society (YES!) Fundraiser I had the privilege of joining an event held by YES! (Youth Engagement in Society), an organization founded by students at Barrington High School to promote civic engagement. The event was organized to raise money for Hope for Haiti, and I was amazed to witness them raise $3,678 toward their $5,000 goal just while I was there! It was inspiring to meet these passionate students and see their dedication to helping others both locally and globally. Palatine Sustainability Fair Our office and student Fellows had a wonderful time participating in the Sustainability Fair hosted by Palatine Cool Cities! It was fantastic to see the community come together to share sustainable living practices, enjoy family activities, and explore innovative ideas for a sustainable future. Events like these remind us of the importance of working together to protect our environment for future generations. 🌱 Palatine's Hometown Fest I had such a blast joining the annual Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest! Getting to connect with community members, enjoy local vendors, and celebrate what makes our hometown special was absolutely wonderful. There's nothing quite like a good community festival to bring neighbors together! 🎇 Student Engagement Our Youth Advisory Council has reached an exciting milestone! After weeks of researching local nonprofits and presenting on organizations focused on healthcare accessibility, educational equity, food security, and community investments, our advisors have made their final decisions on how to distribute the $1,000 community budget! Last month was all about advocacy and collaboration. Students presented their cases for the organizations they believed should receive funding, debated the merits of different community needs, and worked together to agree on a final budget allocation. It was incredible to see them engage in the same kind of thoughtful decision-making that happens at the state level. Our next meeting will be all about finalizing the recipient list and getting those funds out to the community organizations that will make a real difference in our district! YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM through July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules. Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. Our last meeting of the year is on Monday, July 28th! Register for YAC Our Fellows are diving deep into policy work, too! This month they started their presentations on their chosen legislative topics, getting into the nuts and bolts of how they would bring these policies to help our District and our State. I'm so impressed by their research and their passion for creating meaningful change! Community Updates and Resources Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! More Resources! Donate Menstrual Items Birth to Five Childcare Resources Birth to Five Family Council Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! Lastly, our website is a great resource! It is regularly updated with community events, resources, and more. State and Federal Updates and Resources Rise in DMV Text Scam Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” that threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges. The text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into giving up personal or financial information. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. “Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.” The office only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status. Illinoisans are encouraged to report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov. REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has funding opportunities available! Check out the CDBG Economic Development Program!   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

June Newsletter 🌈

Legislative Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Happy June, and Pride Month, everyone!  I've spent the majority of my time these past few months in Springfield, meeting with colleagues, advocating for legislation that reflects our community’s priorities, and ensuring that the voices of our constituents are heard at the state level. In May, we adjourned the legislative session and passed a budget. After months of proudly representing the 51st District in Springfield, I’m excited to reconnect with you back home. Keep reading to learn more about the legislative session, what we've been up to in the district, upcoming events, and more! District Office Updates 2 WEEKS AWAY: We invite you to join us at a Town Hall 🏦 Join Representative Canty and me at our upcoming town hall to get the latest updates, ask questions, and stay informed about key state and federal issues. Register at repnabeelasyed.org/townhall25. Registration is highly encouraged to help us plan for seating. 🗓️ Event Details: When: Thursday, June 26 at 6:00 PM Where: Palatine Public Library, 700 N North Court, Palatine Looking forward to seeing you there! Register Here Monthly Office Hours 📚 Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! Our next office hours is on June 25th. We hope to see you there! Museum Pass Requests 🦖 Looking for fun summer plans? Look no further! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form We are proud to be a collection site for: CASA Summer Clothing Drive Clean Up, Give Back Palatine Shoe Drive Stop by our district office located at 1252 West Northwest Highway, Palatine to drop off donations. Office Closed for Juneteenth Our district office will be closed on Thursday, June 19th, in observance of Juneteenth. If you need to get in touch with our district office, please email info@repsyed.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can. 🏛️Legislative Highlights🏛️ The session came to a close at the end of May! We'll keep discussing the ins and outs of what was passed and what still needs doing in the next few months, but let's get started! Progress on Prescription Drug Costs I've maintained my goals in achieving affordable health care in our state; I put plenty of work this session into getting our state a Prescription Drug Affordability Board. We haven't gotten there yet, but we did reach an important milestone toward making our healthcare costs come down: PBM reform got passed! Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are middlemen in the prescription drug system. The new law stops PBMs from steering patients away from community pharmacies and prevent them from pocketing the difference between what they charge insurance companies and what they reimburse pharmacies. This is exactly the kind of transparency and accountability we need in our prescription drug system. Passing a Budget that Works In what might be the most uncertain budgetary period of our lives, I'm proud to say that the General Assembly passed a $55.2 billion budget that keeps our state running without raising income or sales taxes on working families. These weren't easy decisions – we faced significant fiscal challenges and had to make tough choices to bridge a billion-dollar shortfall while still trying to protect essential services. I'm also happy to say that our budget also included SB2306, a bill I was sponsoring on its path through the House. This budget provision which will provide additional support for crucial state programs that benefit our communities. With a streamlined pipeline between capital investment in climate resiliency and the municipalities who need it, resiliency projects will be easier for local governments to advance! Streamlining Mental Health Licensing Lastly (for this newsletter, at least), I'm glad to mention that both of the mental health bills I was sponsoring passed this session! HB3487 expands data collection for professional license applications for mental health professionals. This enhanced data will help identify workforce trends, address professional shortages in underserved areas, and better plan for future mental healthcare needs across the state. HB3373 allows psychology doctoral graduates to take the first part of their licensing examination immediately after graduation, rather than waiting to complete their postdoctoral supervised experience. This change will reduce wait times for new psychologists and help get mental health services to communities that need them. Together, these measures take meaningful steps toward improving access to mental health services for Illinois residents. District Highlights ✨ Congrats to Lake Zurich! Congratulations to Lake Zurich, whose municipal investments in green energy got national attention! Lake Zurich is leading the charge toward a cleaner future with its 100% Green Choice Power Program — delivering renewable energy to homes and small businesses at a locked-in rate of just 7.95¢/kWh. We're proud that Lake Zurich was ranked #1 in Illinois and #10 in the U.S. for green energy use! 💡 💚 In the Community! Big Trucks in Palatine Our office got the chance to connect with our community through the Palatine Park District's Big Truck event last month! Getting resources to community members and playing trivia games with our youngest constituents made for a wonderful day! Palatine Memorial Day Events I was so grateful to be a part of Palatine's Memorial Day events and to participate in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to our country. As the weather warms up and community resource fairs ramps up, we're excited to get out and connect with our community. This is the favorite time of the year for our office and we hope to see you at a community event! Student Engagement Our Youth Advisory Council is almost done for the year. Time flies! Just two more meetings left, and the YAC capstone project will be complete! Our last meeting was all about community engagement! Our advisors spent time researching community organizations and discussed different community resources. The YAC presented on local nonprofits focusing on healthcare accessibility, educational equity, food security, international community investments, and so much more! This month, students will take the next step by advocating for the organizations they believe should receive funding, ultimately working together to decide how to allocate a $1,000 community budget. The goal of this project is to help students understand how the budget-making process works at the state level by giving them a hands-on opportunity to simulate it—making thoughtful funding decisions, considering community needs, and practicing public advocacy. We’re excited to see how their ideas and priorities take shape! YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM through July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules. Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. Our next meeting is on Monday, June 30th! Register for YAC Our Fellows are hard at work, too! Last meeting they learned the ins and outs of writing a Legislative proposal; now comes research, feedback, and, in the end, their own presentations to the group and to the office! I can't wait to see their ideas develop into real policy! Community Updates and Resources Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! More Resources! Birth to Five Childcare Resources Birth to Five Family Council Palatine Pride Month Proclamation Cook County Job Fair YES! Summer Kickoff     Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! Lastly, our website is a great resource! It is regularly updated with community events, resources, and more. State and Federal Updates and Resources Rise in DMV Text Scam Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is warning Illinoisans to keep on the lookout for text message scams claiming to be from the “Illinois State Department of Motor Vehicles” that threaten to suspend vehicle registration and driving privileges. The text messages are phishing attempts designed to trick residents into giving up personal or financial information. Recipients should not respond or open any links found in unsolicited texts and emails. “Phishing scams are unfortunately an increasingly prevalent threat in our modern society, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” Giannoulias said. “Please remain vigilant to avoid these scams and report them to protect yourself and others from falling victim to fraud schemes.” The office only sends text messages to remind residents about scheduled DMV appointments. It does not send text messages regarding driver’s license or vehicle registration status. Illinoisans are encouraged to report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov. REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Business Attraction Prime Sites, Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 CDBG Economic Development Program, Rolling basis   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

May Newsletter 🐝

Legislative Updates, Community Happenings, and More!

Happy May, everyone!  A lot has happened this past month in Springfield. Deadlines have come and gone, bills have moved from the House to the Senate, and vice versa! But it's not just bills that are on the move — our office has been active across the district as well! From attending community expos to hosting Youth Advisory Council meetings, we've stayed busy on both the legislative and local fronts. Let's dive in! ▶️ District Office Updates Congratulations to... A heartfelt thank you and congratulations to Chief John Kelly on his retirement from the Lake Zurich Fire Department after 40 years of dedicated fire service! 🧑‍🚒 Your leadership and commitment to public safety and our community is greatly appreciated and we hope retirement treats you well!  We were also honored to present a Certificate of Recognition from the State of Illinois to Lieutenant Douglas Erb and Captain Lee Kammin for 30+ years dedicated to fire service respectively. Additionally, we're also proud to report that Palatine and Lake Zurich both received grants for their local high school libraries from the Secretary of State's Office! More than $13,000 has made its way into our district to support our schools and strengthen our educational resources! 🎉📚 Office Closure Our district office will be closed on Monday, May 26th, in observance of Memorial Day. If you need to get in touch with our district office, please email info@repsyed.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Museum Pass Requests 🦖 Looking for fun summer plans? Look no further! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Last year we had over 200 requests! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form 🏛️Legislative Highlights🏛️ We've reached an important milestone with the bill voting deadline on April 11th. I'm excited to share that several key pieces of legislation I've sponsored have successfully moved past the House into the Senate! Housing Reform Housing affordability remains one of my top priorities, and I'm particularly proud of our progress with HB3564, which brings much-needed transparency to rental costs. This legislation prohibits excessive move-in fees and limits application fees, making housing more accessible for everyone in our community. Reducing upfront costs for tenants also lowers the risk of sudden vacancies for smaller landlords. Health Care Accessibility We're also making important strides in improving healthcare access across the state. With HB3373, we're streamlining the licensing process for clinical psychologists, allowing them to begin their examination process earlier. This means more qualified mental health professionals will be able to enter the workforce sooner – getting our communities the mental healthcare they deserve! Additionally, HB3487 establishes a framework for collecting vital data about our behavioral health workforce, enabling better decisions to improve services moving forward. Our state has mandated paid leave to those who donate organs, but until HB1616 is signed into law, only full time workers receive these protections. HB1616 extends those protections to the many part time workers in our communities. Community Water Protections The House has passed my sponsored update to our community water protections. HB3739 updates our State's Environmental Protection Act with modern standards to ensure our community water sources remain safe and reliable. Supporting our Park Districts Last, but not least, I had the honor of joining the Illinois Association of Park Districts legislative panel! It was wonderful to see the Palatine Park District and park districts from all over Illinois come together in Springfield! We had a great conversation about the vital role park districts play in our communities and how people can make their voices heard through legislative advocacy. I also got to share some personal stories about the impact parks have had on my own life. 🌳🛝🏊‍♂️ I'm proud of the progress we've made, and we're just getting started! There are Senate bills to discuss, amendments to file, and more work coming up this month! District Highlights ✨ In the Community! Lake Zurich Area Community Resource Fair Our district team and student fellows had an amazing time at our third Lake Zurich Area Community Expo! This was our first expo of the year and marks the beginning of an exciting season ahead; you'll see even more of our team out and about in the district! A big thank you to the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for their continued support of the community and for hosting such a fantastic annual event! 😃 Rolling Meadows Senior and Veterans Fair We also attended the Senior and Veterans Resource Fair! Our office and student fellows had the opportunity to engage with seniors and veterans in the district, listen to their concerns, and meet with other state, county, and local organizations who provide resources and services to our community members. 🤝 Wellness Resource Fair & Community Blood Donation Drive Our office had a wonderful time at the United Palatine Coalition's (UPC) annual Wellness Fair learning about community organizations, and sharing state resources. 🤩 Thank you to the UPC and Buehler YMCA for organizing a great community expo and to everyone who stopped by our table! While we were at the community expo, we were directing folks to donate blood at our Mobile Blood Drive with Versiti happening right across the street! Thank you so much to everyone who donated and helped save lives! 👏🩸 Mobile DMV We hosted a Mobile DMV event with the Secretary of State's Mobile DMV team to provide select DMV services. A big thank you to the Mobile DMV team, as well as the ICash and Illinois Tollway teams, for assisting constituents in checking for any state refunds owed to them and helping them replace their tollway transmitter sticker tags! Our student fellows joined us for a great learning experience, diving into how our office connects with constituents. 🚗 Henry County Visit One of my favorite experiences as a legislator has been participating  in the Illinois Farm Bureau Adopt-a-Legislator program!  Last week, I visited my friends from the Henry County Farm Bureau and learned about conservation methods in farming, planting season, and how policies at the state and federal level are impacting farmers across our state. I also had the opportunity to tour Black Hawk College East Campus. Thank you to the Henry County Farm Bureau for the honor of being your adopted legislator! 🚜🌽 Breast Cancer Awareness I was honored to be a panelist at the South Asian American Policy and Research Institute's Breast Cancer Awareness event. 🩷 I had the opportunity to discuss my bill, HB 4180, which expanded insurance coverage for molecular breast imaging, discuss breast cancer stigmas in the South Asian community, and raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer and other health related challenges that affect women, alongside experts in the field.  I am grateful to have been part of this important panel and look forward to continuing the conversation on improving health outcomes for all. Learn more about SAAPRI's work Monthly Office Hours Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! We are currently coordinating our next monthly office hours and will release the date on our website. As the weather warms up and community resource fairs ramps up, we're excited to get out and connect with our community. This is the favorite time of the year for our office and we hope to see you at a community event! Student Engagement We're going strong with the Youth Advisory Council! The YAC is a great opportunity for high school students to voice their concerns, advise Rep. Syed on legislation, and learn about the legislative process and our state government. We hosted two Youth Advisory Council meetings this past month! Together with our students we explored legislative priorities and debated bills. During our first meeting, I shared legislative updates with the students, including what a day in the life of a State Representative in Springfield looks like, which includes committee meetings, prepping for bills, and speaking with advocates.  Students also participated in their first bill debate on HB3117 – they took time to research the bill and debate with one another regarding the pros and cons of it. Our YAC students brought their A-game, diving into a lively debate about screen time, learning environments, equity, and enforcement. It was awesome to see them weigh the real-world impact and explore different perspectives like true policymakers! At the second meeting, YAC students also debated a very relevant topic for high school students—SB 2427—a bill that would ban student phone use during class (with some exceptions), require secure storage, and prohibit enforcement through fees or law enforcement. It was amazing to see students so engaged in a topic that they are passionate about and hearing their concerns and arguments regarding the bill. I see some future state elected officials in our group! 😉 We’re looking forward to our May meeting which kicks off the Community Budget Project! 💬💡💰 And, thank you to all the students who were able to attend, hope to see you all at the next meeting!  YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM through July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules. Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. Our next meeting is on Monday, May 19th! Register for YAC Our student fellows are hard at work. 💪 We also had two fellowship cohort meetings this month! We're excited to welcome both returning fellows and new faces to our cohort. Stay tuned as we share more about the incredible ways our fellows are connecting with our office and making an impact in District 51! At our second meeting, our student fellows began brainstorming legislative ideas for their capstone projects. As part of the program, they research and present on topics they’re passionate about to help advise me on the issues that matter most to young people—and where meaningful change can be made. Our office is excited to learn what students are passionate about!  Community Updates and Resources Job Opportunities Partners for our Communities Application Brightpoint Application Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! In honor of Dr. Carl C. Bell, the Illinois Psychicatric Society is holding an essay competition, open to all Illinois High School students! Reach out to the young writers in your life to share their stories about belonging, loneliness, and inspiration. Submissions are due by May 15th! Learn more here Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! Save the Date! Brightpoint Summer Party! Events for AAPI Heritage Month! May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is celebrating it with a number of events this month. Their first community event is Asian Night Market on May 9th! Check out their other events! Rolling Meadows Memorial Day Events! The City of Rolling Meadows Veteran's Committee is hosting two events this month! The Remembering Our Fallen National Photographic War Memorial will take place from May 16 - 18, and the Memorial Day Ceremony will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 24th at the Carillion Bell Tower on Kirchoff Road! Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! CASA Advocate Volunteer opportunity Take the survey here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Business Attraction Prime Sites, Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 CDBG Economic Development Program, Rolling basis   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

April Newsletter 🌺

Community Blood Drive, Springfield Updates, and more!

Happy April, everyone!  As the session pushes toward the deadlines for getting bills through their committees, I've been continuing our work in Springfield! Keep reading for details about my work this session, upcoming events, and more! District Office Updates Community Blood Donation Drive Our office has partnered with Versiti Blood Bank to host a Community Blood Donation Drive! We will be co-hosting this event on Saturday, April 26th from 9am-1pm at 1252 West Northwest Highway, Palatine. The event will be held in their Mobile Donation Bus which will be parked outside of door #5, right across the Buehler YMCA. Appointments are not required but encouraged as there are limited spots! Please sign up if you can with the link below! Please give us a call at 773-916-6553 or email at info@repsyed.com if you have any questions or need help finding us the day-of. Reserve your appointment here! Museum Pass Requests 🦖 Looking for fun summer plans? Look no further! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Last year we had over 200 requests! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form 🏛️Legislative Highlights🏛️ As we get closer to the committee deadlines for legislation, I am proud to share some positive developments we've been seeing in the property tax space. The Property Tax Working Group Convenes I've joined a group of 10 other legislators to serve on Illinois' first-ever Property Tax Working Group. This initiative formed following Governor Pritzker's budget address, which emphasized the need for comprehensive property tax reform. Easing financial burdens on working families is fundamental to building a more stable future. We'll be meeting with experts and community members to explore legislative options to get homeowners the relief they need. Just as we've built momentum around prescription drug affordability, I'm fighting to find property tax relief that allows you to invest in your futures without compromising on the parts of our communities we care about most. Hearing from our Communities I recently had an excellent discussion with the Police Chiefs in Springfield! I truly appreciate their ongoing support for important initiatives that enhance public safety in our communities. They're backing Alyssa's Law—legislation I've introduced that aims to improve and accelerate emergency response times by law enforcement during crises at public schools. Additonally, I had the honor of meeting with Mikva Challenge students at the Capitol, including students from Stevenson High School. We discussed their legislative ideas, and I received valuable feedback on some of my own proposed legislation!   District Highlights ✨ Out in the Community! Sharing state resources and information about our office in the community is always a blast! We had the opportunity to do meet and chat with students this month at ... First stop is Stevenson High School for their annual Fast-A-Thon! 🌙 Next stop, Fremd High School for their Mental Health Resource Fair! As the weather warms up and community resource fairs ramps up, we're excited to get out and connect with our community. This is the favorite time of the year for our office and we hope to see you at a community event! Monthly Office Hours Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! We are currently coordinating our next monthly office hours and will release the date on our website. Student Engagement We're going strong with the Youth Advisory Council! The YAC is a great opportunity for high school students to voice their concerns, advise Rep. Syed on legislation, and learn about the legislative process and our state government. In the first half of our program, we dedicate our time to exploring Rep Syed's legislative priorities and debating bills. In the second half of the program, students will debate on how to distribute $1,000 amongst community-based organizations that they care about to pass a "District 51 Budget." YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM through July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules.  Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. Our next meeting is on Monday, April 28! Register for YAC Community Updates and Resources Job Opportunities Partners for our Communities Application Brightpoint Application Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! In honor of Dr. Carl C. Bell, the Illinois Psychicatric Society is holding an essay competition, open to all Illinois High School students! Reach out to the young writers in your life to share their stories about belonging, loneliness, and inspiration. Submissions are due by May 15th! Learn more here Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state?  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! Save the Date! Palatine Arbor Day Celebration! Tax Assistance at Palatine Library Wellness Resource Fair and Healthy Kids Day Our office will have a table at the Wellness Resource Fair as well and hope to see you there! Teens LGBTQIA+ Support Group Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services FREE White Sox Tickets for Veterans Learn more here! CASA Advocate Volunteer opportunity Take the survey here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Business Attraction Prime Sites, Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 CDBG Economic Development Program, Rolling basis   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org Get in touch with us! Our district office is located at 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available in person Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm and on Fridays you can reach us via email and phone. Phone: 773-916-6553 Email: info@repsyed.com With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

March Newsletter 🌷

Happy March, everyone!  As the session has come into full swing, I've been working hard these last three weeks to bring our communities’ interests to the front of what’s happening in Springfield. Keep reading for details about my work this session, upcoming office hours, and more! District Office Updates We Moved! 🚚 We have a few reminders to re-share with you: First, our district office moved just down the road in Palatine to 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  We are available 9am - 5pm in-person Monday - Thursday, and on Fridays we are available via email and phone. Get in touch! Museum Pass Requests Open for 2025! 🦖 Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Last year we had over 200 requests! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form Legislative Highlights 🏛️ Upcoming Bills 🏛️ The legislative session is in full swing, and I want to give you an update on the priorities I talked about last time: healthcare costs, property tax relief, and protecting our local utilities. This time around, I’ll dive deeper into what we're doing about healthcare coverage, because we’re making some exciting progress! Creating Prescription Drug Oversight In the last newsletter I talked about some of the bills I was filing, and the first one I brought up was HB1443. It creates a Prescription Drug Affordability Board. We just had an amazing event in Springfield last week with more than 200 advocates from across Illinois showing up to support it! Even better - we now have over 25 co-sponsors on board!  This momentum confirms what I've heard from so many of you: drugs only works when people can actually afford it. With this bill, we’re looking to give real people - patients and healthcare providers - a seat at the table. Protecting Behavioral Health Services I've also filed HB1448, which tackles another healthcare challenge I've heard about from many of you. This bill stops insurance companies from using prior authorization and other management tactics to deny behavioral health coverage while they rake in bigger profits. The great news: When Governor Pritzker gave his budget address, he included programs with these same priorities. I've said it before and I'll continue saying it - everyone in our community deserves affordable health coverage, regardless of their income. Seeing our legislative priorities align with the governor's proposal is a huge step in the right direction. Hearing from our Communities Clearbrook hosted their 4th Annual Legislative Breakfast in February. Thank you for providing the space to educate legislators and help us advocate for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. These conversations are what we need to be having to impactfully address the needs of our neighbors. I also got the chance to join the Lake and Henry County Farm Bureaus at the Illinois Farm Bureau Legislative Reception down in Springfield! It was a great opportunity to discuss the legislative priorities of our farmers, across the state and in our communities. District Highlights ✨ Monthly Office Hours Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Come by and share your thoughts! Note: I will be at the Palatine Office Hours, but only staff will be present at the Ela Office Hours. Student Engagement Last month we launched the third cohort of Rep Syed's Youth Advisory Council (YAC)! The YAC is a great opportunity for high school students to voice their concerns, advise Rep. Syed on legislation, and learn about the legislative process and our state government. In the first half of our program, we dedicate our time to exploring Rep Syed's legislative priorities and debating bills. In the second half of the program, students will debate on how to distribute $1,000 amongst community-based organizations that they care about to pass a "District 51 Budget." YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM through July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules.  Our first YAC meeting of the year was on February 24th! At our first meeting we also introduced the second District Fellowship program application. The fellowship program is an opportunity for students to work more closely with the district office on events, legislative presentations, and more while earning any volunteer hours needed for school. Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. We had a blast in February; we'll see you on Monday, March 31st! Register for YAC Community Updates and Resources Job Opportunities Partners for our Communities Application Brightpoint Application Student Opportunities Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state.  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! Save the Date! Tax Assistance at Palatine Library Wellness Resource Fair and Healthy Kids Day Teens LGBTQIA+ Support Group Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services CASA Advocate Volunteer opportunity Take the survey here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources REAL ID Info from the Secretary of State The Secretary of State has added some info for anyone who has questions about getting a RealID. To learn more, there's now a "Get A REAL ID" portal on the homepage of the office's website (www.ilsos.gov). There, you can see: (1) if you need a REAL ID before the May 7 federal enforcement period begins; and (2) how to find a walk-in location or schedule an appointment near you. iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv! Law Enforcement Camera Grant The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board is offering the Law Enforcement Camera Grant to assist Illinois police agencies, municipalities, counties, park districts, public universities, and other local government units. The grant funds are designed to support the purchase or lease of in-car video cameras, body cameras, data storage systems, and technical training for the use of these cameras. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $3,000,000. For more information, please contact Allison Mesecher at 217-785-4540 or email ptb.grants@illinois.gov. Application deadline is April 1, 2025, by 5:00 PM (CST). Learn more and apply here   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Business Attraction Prime Sites, Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 CDBG Economic Development Program, Rolling basis   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

February Newsletter 🌹

Hi there! 2024 was an incredible year, filled with building strong connections with our constituents and local organizations, deepening our understanding of the district’s needs, and advocating for the 51st. We assisted with over 115 constituent cases and successfully passed 7 new bills. To stay up-to-date on the legislation I’m working on and co-sponsoring in 2025, be sure to visit my page on ILGA. This year, we partnered with community members to host a wide range of events, including a Community Blood Donation Drive, Mobile DMVs, town halls, donation drives, and more! Looking ahead, we’re excited to focus on key legislative initiatives in the upcoming session while planning new events and outreach efforts to further strengthen our community connections. As always, stay connected with us for updates right here in this newsletter. District Office Updates We Moved! 🚚 We have a few updates to share with you: First, our district office has moved just down the road in Palatine to 1252 W Northwest Highway, across from the Buehler YMCA.  As usual, we are available 9am - 5pm in-person Monday - Thursday, and on Fridays we are available via email and phone.  Office Closed on Feb 12 & Feb 17 Our district office will be closed on Wednesday, February 12th, in observance of Lincoln’s Birthday and Monday, February 17th for President's Day. If you need to get in touch with our district office, please email info@repsyed.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Museum Pass Requests Open for 2025! 🦖 Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. This pass allows for you and up to three guests to receive complimentary, general admission to the participating museums. This is a great and cost effective way to spend time with friends and family, explore the exhibits that museums have to offer, and learn something new! Last year we had over 200 requests! Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter! Museum Pass Request Form Legislative Highlights 104th General Assembly Inauguration I was sworn into my second term for the 51st House District of Illinois! 🏛️ I am honored to continue to serve and represent the 51st District, and I remain committed to advocating for the needs and best interests of our community.  We accomplished a lot in the last two years, including expanding insurance coverage for molecular breast cancer imaging, holding utility companies accountable, and more. But we are far from finished. Let’s get to work! 💪 Additionally, our team had a great time down at the Capitol for the Lame Duck Session and Inauguration!  During the Lame Duck Session, we passed Karina’s Bill, a critical gun safety reform act aimed at strengthening the protection of orders and removing firearms from an abuser’s possession. This bill is named in memory of Karina Gonzalez, whose life, along with her daughter’s, was tragically cut short by an abuser. This legislation is a step forward to protect families and victims of domestic violence. It is bittersweet to share that our previous Chief of Staff, Megan (pictured in the middle seat), has transitioned onto bigger things! I want to take this opportunity to re-introduce Pooja (pictured in the right seat) as our District Director, Mudasser (pictured in the left seat) as our Constituent Services Director, and to introduce our newest office member Yoav as our Legislative Director! 104th General Assembly Committees I'm honored to be serving on the following six committees for the 104th General Assembly: ✔️ Vice Chair: Health Care Availability and Access  ✔️ Health & Human Services Appropriations ✔️ Child Care Access & Early Childhood ✔️ Gun Violence Prevention ✔️ Public Utilities  ✔️ Small Business, Tech Innovation.  Committees play a crucial role in the legislative process by reviewing proposed legislation, hearing testimony, and making recommendations. They ensure that bills presented to the House and Senate are vetted and reflect the best interests of the people of Illinois. I am also excited to serve as the Vice Chair of the Health Care Availability and Access Committee. 🏛️ Upcoming Bills 🏛️ With the start of the session has come a flurry of bills being filed! In this newsletter I want to highlight some of the most impactful bills I’ve introduced so far. After countless conversations with residents at their doors and in our community meetings, I've focused on legislation that tackles the issues that affect our district most: healthcare costs, property tax relief, and protecting our local utilities. Transforming Healthcare Cost Oversight The first bill I want to tell you about is one I'm particularly passionate about - HB1443. When I spoke with community members in our district about their healthcare costs, one thing became crystal clear: we need better oversight of prescription drug prices. That's why I filed this bill to create a new Health Care Availability and Access Board that will fight to keep prescription costs fair and transparent. This isn't just another government board - I made sure it includes a stakeholder council so that real people, including patients and healthcare providers, have a seat at the table. Every decision about drug costs will be made in open session because you deserve to know exactly how these choices are made. We're also aligning with federal Medicare pricing to keep things consistent and fair. Expanding Property Tax Relief I've filed two bills to continue reducing the property tax burden in District 51. For seniors on fixed incomes, I filed HB1701 to help keep up with rising costs. As Social Security payments go up with inflation, some seniors have lost their property tax benefits. Under my bill, income limits will automatically adjust with Social Security cost of living adjustments, so our seniors can maintain their much-needed property tax relief. Last summer, I met a resident who shared how frustrating and onerous it was to repeatedly prove her disability status for her homestead exemption. That's why I've introduced HB1614. Once approved, people with a disability homestead exemption won't need repeated medical exams if nothing has changed.  Putting You in Control of Your Utilities Members of the district vividly remember the water disruptions from the summer of 2023. After what happened, I knew we needed stronger protections for our community. I've filed HB2533 to give community members a direct voice in decisions about our utility services. This bill requires a public vote before any private utility company can acquire our local services. And this is just the start! With the new session, I’m working every day to make sure the concerns and stories you have shared with me are heard and create meaningful change. Supporting Illinois Libraries I had a wonderful time attending the Illinois Library Association Legislative Breakfast! 📚 It was a great opportunity to connect with library professionals, advocates, and peer legislators to discuss key issues facing libraries in Illinois. I'm excited to continue supporting libraries through these important conversations! District Highlights ✨ Monthly Office Hours Our office has been enjoying hosting monthly office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries! Here are some highlights from the past few months, and we hope you’ll join us for our March office hours.  To stay up-to-date on upcoming office hours and other events, visit our website or follow us on social media—links are provided at the end of this newsletter! November 2024 office hours December 2024 office hours January 2025 office hours Student Engagement RELAUNCHING: Youth Advisory Council Exciting news! We are launching the third cohort of Rep Syed's Youth Advisory Council (YAC)! The YAC is a great opportunity for high school students to voice their concerns, advise Rep. Syed on legislation, and learn about the legislative process and our state government. In the first half of our program, we will dedicate our time to exploring Rep Syed's legislative priorities and debating bills. In the second half of the program, students will debate on how to distribute $1,000 amongst community-based organizations that they care about to pass a "District 51 Budget." YAC meetings are held monthly between 5 PM - 6 PM from February - July at our District Office. There is no commitment needed; we understand that students have busy schedules. Our first YAC meeting is THIS MONTH on Monday, February 24th! At our first meeting we will also introduce the second District Fellowship program application. The fellowship program is an opportunity for students to work more closely with the district office on events, legislative presentations, and more while earning any volunteer hours needed for school. Visit repnabeelasyed.org/youth-advisory-council to read testimonials from past YAC students and to register for updates about upcoming meeting dates. We hope to see you there! 👋 Register for YAC District 214 AAPI Student Summit In more student news, I had an incredible time attending the 2nd Annual Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Student Summit! This year, the summit brought together more than 150 students from diverse backgrounds to share their unique experiences, build connections, and foster a supportive environment for meaningful conversations. It was inspiring to see so many passionate students coming together to discuss issues that matter to the AAPI community. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an empowering event!  If you are a student who is interested in fostering community with other civically engaged students and learning about State processes, we encourage you to join the Youth Advisory Council! Chamber of Commerce Events Thank you to the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce for organizing and inviting me as a panelist at their annual legislative luncheon late last year! 💸 I had the opportunity to engage with local business leaders, community members, and fellow legislators about key issues facing our local economy and how we can collaborate to support growth and a thriving community. I look forward to continuing these important conversations and working together to build a strong and thriving community Recognitions I am always deeply appreciative of receiving recognition from organizations that are at the forefront of their field. Their acknowledgment serves as a reminder that meaningful work is never done alone. I am grateful for the support and collaboration and look forward to continuing to work together to create a lasting impact. I am honored to receive the Friend of Agriculture Award from the Illinois Farm Bureau and a Certification of Recognition from the Illinois Association of Rehabilitative Facilities (IARF)! Friend of Agriculture Award: This recognition highlights the importance of supporting policies that strengthen our agricultural community and local economies.  I’m proud to be the adopted legislator for the Henry County Farm Bureau and to work in partnership with the Lake County Farm Bureau to support the hard work of Illinois farmers. 🚜 🧑‍🌾 Certification of Recognition: For sponsoring a bill to ensure children’s group home providers are adequately funded to successfully staff their services. I’m grateful for the work IARF does to advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and investing in frontline staff that are doing incredible work in our communities. Community Updates and Resources Job Opportunities Partners for our Communities Application Brightpoint Application Student Opportunities Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Learn more here! Harper College's Dual Credit Opportunity Did you know that Illinois community colleges are leading the way as the primary providers of dual credit in the state.  Dual credit programs provide high school students with the opportunity to earn credits toward their diploma and college degree while still in high school. Additionally, dual credit students graduate from community college at substantially higher rates than students who did not enroll in dual credit coursework. Learn how Harper's dual credit program helps high school students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by visiting the link below! Learn more! Save the Date! Community Conversation Wellness Resource Fair and Healthy Kids Day Receive Assistance Applying for Services at the Vernon Township OMNI services are now available to Vernon Township residents! OMNI offers an array of services in English and Spanish for applying for state benefits such as SNAP or Medicaid / Medicare, utility and mortgage assistance, and more. For assistance please contact Maritza Garcia at 847-353-1500 or mgarcia@omni4all.org. Vernon Township Boundary Learn more about OMNI Services CASA Advocate Volunteer opportunity Take the survey here CASA Advocate Volunteer opportunity Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Cook County's mission is to advance foster care child advocacy for children in Cook County by ensuring that their needs are met and rights are protected; by transitioning out of foster care into permanent, safe, and loving homes as quickly as possible; and that youth aging out of foster care have the resources and support they need to live independently. CASA Advocates are volunteers who go through an extensive training process before being sworn in by the presiding judge and matched with appropriate cases. Visit casacookcounty.org/volunteer/ to learn more about CASA and the Advocate responsibilities. Learn more here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. 💰 Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv! Law Enforcement Camera Grant The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board is offering the Law Enforcement Camera Grant to assist Illinois police agencies, municipalities, counties, park districts, public universities, and other local government units. The grant funds are designed to support the purchase or lease of in-car video cameras, body cameras, data storage systems, and technical training for the use of these cameras. Grant awards range from $1,000 to $3,000,000. For more information, please contact Allison Mesecher at 217-785-4540 or email ptb.grants@illinois.gov. Application deadline is April 1, 2025, by 5:00 PM (CST). Learn more and apply here   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Business Attraction Prime Sites, Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 CDBG Economic Development Program, Rolling basis   Grantees may contact the Grant Help Desk by e-mail at CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov or submit a question for help with grant applications, GATA prequalification, and audit issues. If possible, grantees should provide their GATA ID with their inquiry.    All available DCEO grants can be found here   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 1252 West Northwest Highway | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

November Newsletter 🍂

Happy fall y'all! 🎃 🍂 This fall, our office has been out-and-about in the community! From a women empowerment workshop to a few town halls, we were busy talking with constituents and getting to know the district better. Please note that our office will be closed from Wednesday November 27-Friday November 29th for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Hope everyone is looking forward to spending some quality time with loved ones in the next couple of months! Keep reading to learn about exciting updates, fun upcoming events, and more. Special thank you to our fellow, Ei! Ei Mon Mon was with our office for a month through the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP). Ei is from Burma (Myanmar) where she received her Bachelor in Nursing Science and her Masters in Comparative Politics. During her time here she learned about the function and structure of our state legislature, engaged with the community, and explored our district! She enjoyed visiting forest preserves, art museums, and volunteering to give back to her community.  Thanks for all your hard work, Ei! 😀   Stop by our office to donate baby supplies! Hopeful Beginnings is hosting a Baby Supply Collection Drive and our office is proud to partner as a collection site for the drive! Drop by our district office located at 830 West Northwest Highway, Suite 9, Palatine between 9 AM - 5 PM, from now to November 21, to drop off baby essentials. All materials that are collected will be distributed to families enrolled in the case management program which serves over 150 local families per month.  Or visit their Target and Amazon registries to purchase supplies: Target Registry Amazon Registry District Highlights ✨ Monthly Office Hours September office hours were a success! Thank you to all the constituents who attended to share concerns and ask questions. 📚 Two Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) Town Halls Panelists at Palatine PDAB Town Hall Lake Zurich PDAB Town Hall Our Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) Town Halls in Palatine and Lake Zurich were a success! People should never have to choose between paying for a life-saving prescription or paying their rent. The goal of this legislation is to start to address some of the most egregious cases of unaffordable prescription drugs so people can begin to see some relief. My proposed legislation would establish a PDAB, an independent body composed of experts in economics and the healthcare field. The board will use data and their expertise to assess the affordability of a prescription medication. If the board decides that a certain prescription drug is unaffordable, they can take action by setting an upper payment limit. Once the upper payment limit is set, no entity or individual can pay more than that payment for the drug. This legislation ensures that the cost-savings will be passed on to patients themselves. It was great to partner with Citizen Action Illinois, Representative Mary Beth Canty, Senator Edly Allen, Representative Faver Dias, and Congressman Krishnamoorthi for these Town Halls. For more information on PDAB, visit citizenaction-il.org/pdab Women Empowerment Workshop Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Women Empowerment Workshop with Dr. Michelle Morkert! 👭 We had powerful conversations about the experience of being a woman in today’s world, including personal experiences, intersectionality, and the work we must continue to do for future generations. Thank you again to everyone who participated and shared their journey. Your stories reflect the power of advocacy and serve as an inspiration for our continued efforts. ✊ On the Spot services with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation 📚 Thank you to representatives from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) for taking the time to join us at the Palatine Public Library to provide one-on-one support! During our event, IDFPR was able to service nearly 50 individuals, guiding them through the licensing process and answering their questions. Additionally, 19 people were able to obtain their licenses on the spot, taking a significant step forward in their professional journeys! 🧑‍🏫 🧑‍⚕️ If you are experiencing challenges with your professional license, please reach out to our office for assistance. Environmental Resource Fair What better way to spend a summer day than to learn about environmental initiatives and resources?  My office co-hosted an environmental resource fair with Lake County Board Member Marah Altenberg and Congressman Mike Quigley to offer residents the opportunity to familiarize themselves with environmentally focused state and local organizations. 🌱 We had a great time chatting with constituents about state-led environmental efforts and local concerns, and learning about the great, green programs that Illinois has to offer! If you have not yet visited Heron Creek Forest Preserve in Long Grove, we highly recommend it! 🌏 I am also proud to announce that I received a 100% rating on the environmental scorecard from the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC)! 💪 🍃 During this legislative session, I sponsored HB4141, a bill that ensures that renters who are not direct customers of utility companies can continue to receive energy assistance payments from DCEO. Let’s continue to work towards a greener, healthier future for all! ♻️ I received the Retiree Champion Award from the Illinois Alliance for Retired Americans! I’m honored to receive the Retiree Champion Award from the Illinois Alliance for Retired Americans, which recognizes young elected officials who are champions for senior issues. Ensuring that seniors and retirees can enjoy retirement with dignity, personal fulfillment, and family security is something I deeply believe in. That’s why I’ve been an advocate for affordable prescription drugs, support for family caregivers, and the Meals on Wheels program. There is still much work to be done, and I am grateful to continue doing this important work alongside the Illinois Alliance for Retired Americans. Lake Zurich DMV+ Now Open! 🚗 The Lake Zurich DMV Facility has officially reopened after remodeling! 🚘 The remodel shifts this facility into a DMV+ location which includes additional services such as job application filing and Apostilles and Certificates! View full list of services Shelter, Inc's New Group Home for survivors of human trafficking Groundbreaking Congratulations to Shelter, Inc and the Housing Opportunity Development Corporation on the groundbreaking of their new group home in Palatine!  This group home is the state’s first DCFS-approved home for young, female human trafficking survivors with a goal to protect children and rebuild the lives of victims of human trafficking. The group home will include 12 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, kitchen, living room, support services, and trauma recovery. These rooms will provide privacy to the girls and provide autonomy for them to build themselves a home while also promoting community relationships with shared spaces.  I am beyond proud that the first DCFS approved housing of this kind is in Palatine and look forward to learning more about the services that will transform the lives of many. Spook-tacular Time in the Community! My office had a spook-tacular time at the ‘Boo-ler’ (Buehler) YMCA’s Halloween Bash! 🎃 We hope you all had a great and safe time trick-or-treating! Meet and Greet with Asian American Realtors I had a great time attending the Asian Real Estate Association of America’s meet and greet! 🏡 It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with industry professionals and engage in meaningful conversations with Asian American realtors!   Reminder: With our museum pass, you and three friends or family members can visit a museum for FREE! 🖼️ The Coletta Family had a wonderful trip to the Brookfield Zoo with our museum pass! Request our pass by clicking the button below 🦖 General Museum Pass Request Form Community Updates and Resources Goodwill's Empower Youth Program Goodwill launched ‘Empower Youth’, a career training and development program for Illinois youth and young adults ages 16 to 24! Enrolled youth and young adults will receive job readiness training, skill building, and support to be successful in the workplace. Program participants will also have access to part-time seasonal jobs and permanent part-time and full-time positions with local employers across a variety of growing industries throughout the Chicagoland area. Apply here! Property Tax Payment Updates for Cook County Homeowners! 🏡 Cook County property owners have a free financial planning tool that can help them pay off their past-due property tax bills A Payment Plan Calculator at cookcountytreasurer.com is available at no cost to help property owners who are late paying their taxes. The calculator assists taxpayers who want to budget their property tax expenses over payments made monthly or every two weeks. Payment Plan Calculator Buehler YMCA Turkey Distribution 🦃 The Buehler YMCA will be distributing 400 turkeys on Friday, November 15th between 2 PM - 6 PM at 1400 West Northwest Highway, Palatine! Congrats Fremd Girls Flag Football! A huge congratulations to the Fremd Girls Flag Football Team for winning the FIRST IHSA State Championship! 🎉🏈 Despite only organizing a few months ago, these young women have dedicated time outside of school hours, working hard to secure this victory. It’s incredible to see!  I’ve always been proud to be a Fremd alum, and this makes me even prouder! Go Vikes!  Read about their season! Congrats to District 51's Young Author, Ishaan! Congratulations is also in order to Ishaan Srivastava who published a political thriller novel! Grab your copy of his novel, Saving Crescents, here! Read the Daily Herald Article National Civics Bee The Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Civics Buzz for the 2025 National Civics Bee! Details on student applications, volunteer roles, sponsorship opportunities, and more can be found at the link below:    Learn more and apply here Special Gifts Theater is Hiring 📣 The Special Gifts Theater is looking for a musical theater teacher and a choreographer! Learn more about both of the positions by reviewing the job descriptions below. Musical Theater Teacher JD Choreographer JD Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library and park district' websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources iCash: The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you An Update from the Secretary of State: Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! ✍️ The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   Court Based Rental Assistance Program The Illinois Housing has launched the Court Based Rental Assistance Program, which is a joint application between the tenant and the housing provider / landlord. Any Illinois tenant may be eligible to receive CBRAP assistance if: They have a pending eviction due to nonpayment (A court-summons document will be required). The household lives in Illinois and rents their home as their primary residence. The household’s total gross income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income for their county. See application for other requirements. Learn more here! Want to stay updated on current grant opportunities? Sign up for our listserv to get more information! This will ensure that you get the full list of grants and more often! Sign up to join our grant listserv!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  Folk Art Mentorship Grant The Illinois Arts Council announced the release of the 2025 Fiscal Year Folk Arts mentorship Grant award, which is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts. This grant supports the mentoring relationship that develops between exemplary practitioners working with dedicated apprentices in ethnic, folk, and traditional arts.  Apply by December 18 DCEO Funding Opportunities 💰 The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has a number of funding opportunities available! Community Development Block Grant – Coronavirus Healthy Houses Program, Application Deadline: November 6, 2024 Clean Energy Career Pathway Program, Application Deadline: November 12, 2024  Community Development Block Grant – Coronavirus Rural Shelter Program, Application Deadline: November 14, 2024 Illinois Grocery Initiative – New Stores in Food Deserts, Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program, Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 Energy Transition Navigator Program, Application Deadline: December 2, 2024  Returning Residents Clean Jobs Training Program, Application Deadline: December 2, 2024 Community Development Block Grant – Public Infrastructure Program, Application Deadline: December 4, 2024 Community Development Block Grant – Grant Housing Rehabilitation Program, Application Deadline: December 4, 2024 Quality Jobs Program, Application Deadline: December 31, 2024 Equitable Energy Future Grant Program, Application Deadline: December 31, 2024   State Services and Programs 📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Help Stop Hate! In recent years, Illinois has seen a stark rise in hate and extremism, reflecting a troubling national trend. In response, Governor JB Pritzker, along with the Illinois Human Rights Department (IDHR) and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to individuals and communities affected by hate. Help Stop Hate provides meaningful support to assist victims and witnesses of hate acts in reporting what happened and connecting them and their communities with vital resources. The service is free, confidential, and not affiliated with law enforcement. Online reports can be made in seven languages. Callers can report in the language of their preference and receive assistance from call specialists trained in trauma-informed care. We need each and every Illinoisan to help stop hate. By reporting hate acts you witness or experience, you play a crucial role in making Illinois a more inclusive and welcoming state. Visit ILStopHate.org or call (877) 458-HATE Monday to Friday from 12-9 PM to report what you’ve experienced or witnessed. Together, we can ensure that hate has no place to hide. ILStopHate.org New CORE Program at IDFPR 🧑‍⚕️ 🧑‍🏭 The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) announced the launch of their new online licensing system! CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment) will eliminate the need for paper applications, give applicants more control over their application materials, and help prevent deficient applications from being submitted. Three pilot professions may begin applying using CORE today, while all other professions licensed by IDFPR will be added in additional phases over the next two years. Learn more on the IDFPR website If you are applying for your professional license and need assistance in the application process or updates, please do not hesitate to contact my office. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway Suite 9 | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

September Newsletter 🍁

Happy September, friend!  In the last bit of summer, our office spent a lot of time outdoors: from community expos to an environmental resource fair, it was fun to share some summer highlights with you.  Keep reading to learn about upcoming events, state and community resources, what we’ve been up to, and more! Please join us for these upcoming events! Inflation Reduction Act Town Hall Join elected officials and the IEC to learn about the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act, how this has impacted Illinois, and ask your questions. When: Friday, September 20th at 12 pm Where: Zoom, registration linked below Register here On-the-Spot with IDFPR Our office has partnered with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to assist with your professional license needs. If you're facing delays with your application, need help with applying for or renewing your license, or have any other related questions, please join us on Wednesday, September 25th, from 3 PM to 6 PM at the Palatine Public Library. IDFPR representatives will be available to answer your questions, assist with your application, and potentially issue your license on the spot! When: Wednesday, September 25th from 3 pm - 6 pm Where: Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 1 What: Professional license support with IDFPR Please click here to register Prescription Drug Affordability Board Town Halls Our office is partnering with Citizen Action Illinois to host TWO Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) Town Halls in the 51st! This is a great opportunity to learn more about affordable healthcare legislation and ask your questions. s. Cook County PDAB Town Hall When: Thursday, October 3rd at 6 PM Where: Palatine Public Library Cook County Registration Lake County PDAB Town Hall When: Tuesday, October 3rd from 6 PM - 7:30 PM Where: Ela Area Public Library Lake County Registration District Highlights Monthly Office Hours Our office had a great time at the Palatine Public Library last month meeting constituents of all ages for office hours!  We'll announce future office hours soon and hope to see you at them! Device Free Zone 📵 We unplugged from our devices and plugged into the community at the annual Unplugged Fest at Paulus Park!  I had some great conversations with our community about legislative ideas, the work our office does, and, of course, some Illinois state trivia! In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our screens, but events like this remind us of the value of slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and fostering real connections within our community. Thank you to everyone who joined us—it was a day well spent! Monthly Student Engagement Meetings In July, we concluded our Youth Advisory Council and the District 51 Fellowship Program for the year! We finalized our District 51 Youth Advisory Council budget! Congratulations to the following organizations who have received a donation from the YAC My Density Matters Bricks of Hope  Clean Up, Give Back Palatine  Raksha Mission:Mathminds 60010 Feeds Kids In April, students were given a budget of $1,000 to distribute how they see fit to community based organizations that service the district. Students met monthly to research and advocate for organizations they are most passionate about. Fun fact: Three out of the finalized six organizations are student-led! This year we also debated a handful of bills and talked about all things legislative and Springfield. Students shared their concerns and opinions about different bills that were being debated on the House Floor and provided feedback on the bills that I was bringing forth.  It was a successful and fun YAC season! Thank you to each and every student who took time out of their weekday to attend and participate in our YAC meetings. Students are already juggling so many responsibilities – between class, homework, sports, clubs, jobs, and other volunteer activities. The time students spend with us at YAC is incredibly valuable to me. Thank you!  Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council Congratulations are also in order to all of the students who have completed the District 51 Fellowship program! 🎉 One of the goals of the program was for students to work with a partner on a legislative research project and come up with a bill idea that our office could potentially use as inspiration. During our final cohort meeting, the Fellows presented their legislative research projects on a variety of topics, including healthcare equity, citizenship class accessibility, immigration reform, and more.  In recognition of their hard work since February ‘House of Representatives Certificate of Recognition.’ The dedication and passion of this group were truly unmatched. They consistently showed up ready to collaborate, strengthen community ties, and advocate for the issues that matter to them. The 51st District thrives because of students like them. Well done! 👏 Alpine Fest Our office attended the Alpine Fest in Lake Zurich! We had a great time informing constituents of the services we can support with, meeting residents who recently moved to the area, and meeting some of the 51st’s youngest constituents! I also attended the Alpine Run! 🏃 Great job to everyone who ran their hearts out!  And, thank you to the Lake Zurich Lions Club for organizing great events and getting the community together! 🦁 Fire Sprinkler Demo! Thank you to the Illinois Chapter of the National Fire Sprinkler Association for inviting me out to the Palatine Street Fest to see their fire sprinkler demonstration! We saw what a fire would look like in a room with (left side) and without (right side) sprinklers. The Palatine Firefighters showed us how critical fire sprinklers are in preventing fire growth and saving lives. I also had the chance to meet some incredible students partaking in the Fire Explorer Program! Visit a Museum for FREE 🖼️ Just because summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean the fun has to! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. ubmit a request to coordinate a time to visit participating museums for FREE! Complete the form to submit a request and send us your pictures to be featured on our website! Reserve your pass today!   Community Updates and Resources Lake Zurich DMV Facility Closure The Lake Zurich DMV (located at 951 S. Rand Road) will be temporarily closed for remodeling from Monday, September 16 to Tuesday, October 1 to turn into a DMV+, which will offer some index, business, and personnel services! The original DMV facility will reopen on Wednesday, October 2nd. During this time, residents can visit a temporary DMV located at the Kemper Lakes Business Center (3 Corporate Dr., Ste. 160 in Lake Zurich), Monday through Friday. For information on the hours of operation of your nearest DMV facility, please call 800-252-8980 or access the online services any time at ILSOS.gov. Just a reminder that we are co-hosting a Mobile DMV at Ela 55+ in a few days! This is another great way for Ela Area residents to receive a handful of DMV services. Call 847-843-9160 to reserve your appointment and scroll up to the beginning of the newsletter to learn more. Property Tax Payment Updates for Cook County Homeowners! 🏡 Cook County property owners have a free financial planning tool that can help them pay off their past-due property tax bills A Payment Plan Calculator at cookcountytreasurer.com is available at no cost to help property owners who are late paying their taxes. The calculator assists taxpayers who want to budget their property tax expenses over payments made monthly or every two weeks. Payment Plan Calculator Additionally, current, eligible homeowners may now pre-file an appeal with the Board of Review. Pre-file an appeal here Disability Lead Fellowship Recruitment The application is OPEN for the 2025 Institute! Are you a person with a disability who wants to help make the Chicago region a more equitable and just place by becoming more civically engaged?  The final deadline to apply to be a Disability Lead Fellow is October 4th, and the early bird deadline of September 20th guarantees an interview. Apply today! Congratulations to District 51 Libraries! 📚 Congratulations to both public libraries in the 51st House District of Illinois for receiving a grant from the Secretary of State's office! Palatine Public Library received $54,003.51 Ela Area Public Library received $132,751.58! Libraries are a wonderful place for our residents to go when they need information and support, and serve as a third space for gathering. These grants provide additional support to libraries and will improve access to the internet, career services, reliable information, and diverse narratives. Congratulations to both libraries for making our district a wonderful place! Early Childhood Block Grant is Hiring! 🧑‍🏫 The Early Childhood Block Grant is hiring for substitute and preschool teachers and instructional assistants!  Click here to learn more and apply! Back to School Parent Workshop 🏫 The United Palatine Coalition is hosting a parent workshop on Wednesday, September 18th at the Palatine Public Library and virtually from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to hear from experts about tools for a healthy school year, tips on healthy relationship building, getting your questions answered, and more.  Register here Join virtually Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce Legislative Luncheon Join the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce for a Legislative Luncheon with local elected officials on Friday, September 20th from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM at 1555 Barrington Road in Hoffman Estates.  The Legislative Luncheon is a great opportunity to engage with legislators and participate in meaningful dialogue about your questions and concerns. When: Friday, September 20th from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Where: 1555 Barrington Road, Hoffman Estates Register here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! Explore the wide range of community events available to you! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, be sure to visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library's and park district's websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal: Updates and Resources The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   New Plant-Based School Lunches Available at All Schools Plant-based school lunches will be made available starting this school year to all 2 million public school students in Illinois who submit a request.  Plant-based lunches served in schools not only taste great according to students themselves, but they also meet the national school lunch meal requirements, ensuring students get enough protein. These meals are also richer in fiber, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and high blood sugar, and they improve brain health, which can help their performance in the classroom. Grant Opportunities   NEW: District 51 Grants Listserv We're setting up a dedicated grant listserv to share info about local, state, and federal grant opportunites. If you would like to receive updates on future grant opportunities, please complete the form to be added to our listserv. Sign up to recieve grant updates here!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO NOFO Grants The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) released two competitive Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support communities in their regional site readiness efforts.   The Regional Site Readiness Program aims to better prepare sites for industrial development in all 10 of DCEO’s Economic Development Regions. The program will create a more comprehensive state-wide strategy that builds upon DCEO’s Mega sites Investment Program and complements Intersect Illinois’ Vetted Sites Program.    Grantees will be selected through two competitive NOFOs:  1) Planning 2) Capital Ready.  For more information or questions contact CEO.Sites@Illinois.gov. Applications are due on Monday, October 21.     Dangers and Opportunities of Technology: Perspectives from the Humanities Grant Description: This program supports research that examines technology and its relationship to society through the lens of the humanities with a focus on the dangers and/or opportunities presented by technology, broadly defined. NEH is particularly interested in projects that examine the role of technology in shaping current social and cultural issues. Total Program Funding: $1 million Award Ceiling: $150,000 Deadline: September 14th, 2024     Climate Smart Humanities and Organizations Grant Description: This program strengthens the institutional base of the humanities by funding operational assessments and strategic planning efforts to sustain and protect historical, cultural, educational, intellectual, and physical assets from the risks of climate change. Proposals must address how strategic planning for climate change will increase the organization’s resilience and support its work in the humanities over the long term. Total Program Funding: $2.5 million Award Ceiling: $300,000 Deadline: September 18th, 2024     Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency Service Coordinator Service Coordinator Program Grant Description: This program assists residents of Public and Indigenous Housing to progress towards economic and housing self-sufficiency by removing the educational, professional, and health barriers they face. HUD provides ROSS-SC grant funding to eligible applicants to hire a Service Coordinator who assesses the needs of these residents and connects them with local training and supportive services. Total Program Funding: $40 million Award Ceiling: $816,750 Deadline: September 30th, 2024     Addressing the Impact of Structural Racism and Discrimination of Minority Health and Health Disparities Grant Description: The purpose of this initiative is to support intervention research that addresses structural racism and discrimination (SRD) to improve minority health or reduce health disparities. Award Ceiling: $500,000 Deadline: January 7th, 2026   State Services Updates  📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Pilot Program for Professional Licenses 🧑‍⚕️ 🧑‍🏭 The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) announced two initiatives! First, IDFPR is expanding their pilot program that will enable select professionals who submit paper applications to submit their payments online! They are also introducing this service for certain professionals who need to restore or reinstate their licenses. The program is an effort to streamline the application review process and decrease wait time between when applicants submit their applications and receive their professional license.  Learn more on the IDFPR website Additionally, IDFPR has a new process to enable active-duty service members and their spouses to apply for licensure with reduced requirements.  Eligible applicants must have: Active duty orders to be stationed in Illinois An active license in their profession from another state Lawfully worked within the last two years in that profession Click here to learn more If you are applying for your professional license and need assistance in the application process or updates, please do not hesitate to contact my office. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway Suite 9 | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

August Newsletter 👋

Happy September, friend!  In the last bit of summer, our office spent a lot of time outdoors: from community expos to an environmental resource fair, it was fun to share some summer highlights with you.  Keep reading to learn about upcoming events, state and community resources, what we’ve been up to, and more! Please join us for these upcoming events! Inflation Reduction Act Town Hall Join elected officials and the IEC to learn about the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act, how this has impacted Illinois, and ask your questions. When: Friday, September 20th at 12 pm Where: Zoom, registration linked below Register here On-the-Spot with IDFPR Our office has partnered with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) to assist with your professional license needs. If you're facing delays with your application, need help with applying for or renewing your license, or have any other related questions, please join us on Wednesday, September 25th, from 3 PM to 6 PM at the Palatine Public Library. IDFPR representatives will be available to answer your questions, assist with your application, and potentially issue your license on the spot! When: Wednesday, September 25th from 3 pm - 6 pm Where: Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 1 What: Professional license support with IDFPR Please click here to register Prescription Drug Affordability Board Town Halls Our office is partnering with Citizen Action Illinois to host TWO Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) Town Halls in the 51st! This is a great opportunity to learn more about affordable healthcare legislation and ask your questions. s. Cook County PDAB Town Hall When: Thursday, October 3rd at 6 PM Where: Palatine Public Library Cook County Registration Lake County PDAB Town Hall When: Tuesday, October 3rd from 6 PM - 7:30 PM Where: Ela Area Public Library Lake County Registration District Highlights Monthly Office Hours Our office had a great time at the Palatine Public Library last month meeting constituents of all ages for office hours!  We'll announce future office hours soon and hope to see you at them! Device Free Zone 📵 We unplugged from our devices and plugged into the community at the annual Unplugged Fest at Paulus Park!  I had some great conversations with our community about legislative ideas, the work our office does, and, of course, some Illinois state trivia! In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our screens, but events like this remind us of the value of slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and fostering real connections within our community. Thank you to everyone who joined us—it was a day well spent! Monthly Student Engagement Meetings In July, we concluded our Youth Advisory Council and the District 51 Fellowship Program for the year! We finalized our District 51 Youth Advisory Council budget! Congratulations to the following organizations who have received a donation from the YAC My Density Matters Bricks of Hope  Clean Up, Give Back Palatine  Raksha Mission:Mathminds 60010 Feeds Kids In April, students were given a budget of $1,000 to distribute how they see fit to community based organizations that service the district. Students met monthly to research and advocate for organizations they are most passionate about. Fun fact: Three out of the finalized six organizations are student-led! This year we also debated a handful of bills and talked about all things legislative and Springfield. Students shared their concerns and opinions about different bills that were being debated on the House Floor and provided feedback on the bills that I was bringing forth.  It was a successful and fun YAC season! Thank you to each and every student who took time out of their weekday to attend and participate in our YAC meetings. Students are already juggling so many responsibilities – between class, homework, sports, clubs, jobs, and other volunteer activities. The time students spend with us at YAC is incredibly valuable to me. Thank you!  Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council Congratulations are also in order to all of the students who have completed the District 51 Fellowship program! 🎉 One of the goals of the program was for students to work with a partner on a legislative research project and come up with a bill idea that our office could potentially use as inspiration. During our final cohort meeting, the Fellows presented their legislative research projects on a variety of topics, including healthcare equity, citizenship class accessibility, immigration reform, and more.  In recognition of their hard work since February ‘House of Representatives Certificate of Recognition.’ The dedication and passion of this group were truly unmatched. They consistently showed up ready to collaborate, strengthen community ties, and advocate for the issues that matter to them. The 51st District thrives because of students like them. Well done! 👏 Alpine Fest Our office attended the Alpine Fest in Lake Zurich! We had a great time informing constituents of the services we can support with, meeting residents who recently moved to the area, and meeting some of the 51st’s youngest constituents! I also attended the Alpine Run! 🏃 Great job to everyone who ran their hearts out!  And, thank you to the Lake Zurich Lions Club for organizing great events and getting the community together! 🦁 Fire Sprinkler Demo! Thank you to the Illinois Chapter of the National Fire Sprinkler Association for inviting me out to the Palatine Street Fest to see their fire sprinkler demonstration! We saw what a fire would look like in a room with (left side) and without (right side) sprinklers. The Palatine Firefighters showed us how critical fire sprinklers are in preventing fire growth and saving lives. I also had the chance to meet some incredible students partaking in the Fire Explorer Program! Visit a Museum for FREE 🖼️ Just because summer is coming to an end, doesn’t mean the fun has to! Our office has a museum pass that we can share with the 51st District. ubmit a request to coordinate a time to visit participating museums for FREE! Complete the form to submit a request and send us your pictures to be featured on our website! Reserve your pass today!   Community Updates and Resources Lake Zurich DMV Facility Closure The Lake Zurich DMV (located at 951 S. Rand Road) will be temporarily closed for remodeling from Monday, September 16 to Tuesday, October 1 to turn into a DMV+, which will offer some index, business, and personnel services! The original DMV facility will reopen on Wednesday, October 2nd. During this time, residents can visit a temporary DMV located at the Kemper Lakes Business Center (3 Corporate Dr., Ste. 160 in Lake Zurich), Monday through Friday. For information on the hours of operation of your nearest DMV facility, please call 800-252-8980 or access the online services any time at ILSOS.gov. Just a reminder that we are co-hosting a Mobile DMV at Ela 55+ in a few days! This is another great way for Ela Area residents to receive a handful of DMV services. Call 847-843-9160 to reserve your appointment and scroll up to the beginning of the newsletter to learn more. Property Tax Payment Updates for Cook County Homeowners! 🏡 Cook County property owners have a free financial planning tool that can help them pay off their past-due property tax bills A Payment Plan Calculator at cookcountytreasurer.com is available at no cost to help property owners who are late paying their taxes. The calculator assists taxpayers who want to budget their property tax expenses over payments made monthly or every two weeks. Payment Plan Calculator Additionally, current, eligible homeowners may now pre-file an appeal with the Board of Review. Pre-file an appeal here Disability Lead Fellowship Recruitment The application is OPEN for the 2025 Institute! Are you a person with a disability who wants to help make the Chicago region a more equitable and just place by becoming more civically engaged?  The final deadline to apply to be a Disability Lead Fellow is October 4th, and the early bird deadline of September 20th guarantees an interview. Apply today! Congratulations to District 51 Libraries! 📚 Congratulations to both public libraries in the 51st House District of Illinois for receiving a grant from the Secretary of State's office! Palatine Public Library received $54,003.51 Ela Area Public Library received $132,751.58! Libraries are a wonderful place for our residents to go when they need information and support, and serve as a third space for gathering. These grants provide additional support to libraries and will improve access to the internet, career services, reliable information, and diverse narratives. Congratulations to both libraries for making our district a wonderful place! Early Childhood Block Grant is Hiring! 🧑‍🏫 The Early Childhood Block Grant is hiring for substitute and preschool teachers and instructional assistants!  Click here to learn more and apply! Back to School Parent Workshop 🏫 The United Palatine Coalition is hosting a parent workshop on Wednesday, September 18th at the Palatine Public Library and virtually from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to hear from experts about tools for a healthy school year, tips on healthy relationship building, getting your questions answered, and more.  Register here Join virtually Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce Legislative Luncheon Join the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce for a Legislative Luncheon with local elected officials on Friday, September 20th from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM at 1555 Barrington Road in Hoffman Estates.  The Legislative Luncheon is a great opportunity to engage with legislators and participate in meaningful dialogue about your questions and concerns. When: Friday, September 20th from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Where: 1555 Barrington Road, Hoffman Estates Register here Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! Explore the wide range of community events available to you! To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, be sure to visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library's and park district's websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal: Updates and Resources The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. Illinois Power Agency Administers Two Solar Incentive Programs ☀️ Did you know that the Illinois Power Agency administers two solar incentive programs on behalf of the State of Illinois?  Since 2019, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) has administered the Illinois Shines and the Illinois Solar for All programs. Both programs make going solar more affordable and accessible for eligible Illinois electricity customers. To participate in either program, customers must work with an approved vendor, which is a solar company registered with one or both of the programs. These companies will submit an on-site solar project (aka distributed generation) to the applicable program or subscribe a customer to a community solar project. Approved Vendors participating in these programs are vetted and approved by that program’s administrator and must meet rigorous consumer protection requirements. Illinois Solar for All Illinois Shines Learn which state solar incentive may be right for you Get Your Documents Notarized at Home! The Secretary of State’s office launched an Electronic Notary System! With this new system, both the customer and notary can sign the document and attach the notarial certificate and notary seal electronically.   If you have questions about notary requirements or the application process, please contact the Index Department’s Notary Public Division at enotary@ilsos.gov or 217-782-7017. Find an e-notary Become an e-notary   New Plant-Based School Lunches Available at All Schools Plant-based school lunches will be made available starting this school year to all 2 million public school students in Illinois who submit a request.  Plant-based lunches served in schools not only taste great according to students themselves, but they also meet the national school lunch meal requirements, ensuring students get enough protein. These meals are also richer in fiber, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and high blood sugar, and they improve brain health, which can help their performance in the classroom. Grant Opportunities   NEW: District 51 Grants Listserv We're setting up a dedicated grant listserv to share info about local, state, and federal grant opportunites. If you would like to receive updates on future grant opportunities, please complete the form to be added to our listserv. Sign up to recieve grant updates here!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  DCEO NOFO Grants The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) released two competitive Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support communities in their regional site readiness efforts.   The Regional Site Readiness Program aims to better prepare sites for industrial development in all 10 of DCEO’s Economic Development Regions. The program will create a more comprehensive state-wide strategy that builds upon DCEO’s Mega sites Investment Program and complements Intersect Illinois’ Vetted Sites Program.    Grantees will be selected through two competitive NOFOs:  1) Planning 2) Capital Ready.  For more information or questions contact CEO.Sites@Illinois.gov. Applications are due on Monday, October 21.     Dangers and Opportunities of Technology: Perspectives from the Humanities Grant Description: This program supports research that examines technology and its relationship to society through the lens of the humanities with a focus on the dangers and/or opportunities presented by technology, broadly defined. NEH is particularly interested in projects that examine the role of technology in shaping current social and cultural issues. Total Program Funding: $1 million Award Ceiling: $150,000 Deadline: September 14th, 2024     Climate Smart Humanities and Organizations Grant Description: This program strengthens the institutional base of the humanities by funding operational assessments and strategic planning efforts to sustain and protect historical, cultural, educational, intellectual, and physical assets from the risks of climate change. Proposals must address how strategic planning for climate change will increase the organization’s resilience and support its work in the humanities over the long term. Total Program Funding: $2.5 million Award Ceiling: $300,000 Deadline: September 18th, 2024     Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency Service Coordinator Service Coordinator Program Grant Description: This program assists residents of Public and Indigenous Housing to progress towards economic and housing self-sufficiency by removing the educational, professional, and health barriers they face. HUD provides ROSS-SC grant funding to eligible applicants to hire a Service Coordinator who assesses the needs of these residents and connects them with local training and supportive services. Total Program Funding: $40 million Award Ceiling: $816,750 Deadline: September 30th, 2024     Addressing the Impact of Structural Racism and Discrimination of Minority Health and Health Disparities Grant Description: The purpose of this initiative is to support intervention research that addresses structural racism and discrimination (SRD) to improve minority health or reduce health disparities. Award Ceiling: $500,000 Deadline: January 7th, 2026   State Services Updates  📣 Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. The LIHEAP application period is October 1, 2024, to August 15, 2025, or until funding is exhausted. Pilot Program for Professional Licenses 🧑‍⚕️ 🧑‍🏭 The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) announced two initiatives! First, IDFPR is expanding their pilot program that will enable select professionals who submit paper applications to submit their payments online! They are also introducing this service for certain professionals who need to restore or reinstate their licenses. The program is an effort to streamline the application review process and decrease wait time between when applicants submit their applications and receive their professional license.  Learn more on the IDFPR website Additionally, IDFPR has a new process to enable active-duty service members and their spouses to apply for licensure with reduced requirements.  Eligible applicants must have: Active duty orders to be stationed in Illinois An active license in their profession from another state Lawfully worked within the last two years in that profession Click here to learn more If you are applying for your professional license and need assistance in the application process or updates, please do not hesitate to contact my office. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway Suite 9 | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

July Newsletter! 🌻

Hi friend,  The sun has been out and so have we! This past month, our district office has been connecting with the community through meetings and summer events. We have had the pleasure of engaging with many of you at office hours, events, and community expos.  Keep reading to learn about upcoming events, recent highlights from our office, resources, and more! Thank you to our Mikva Fellow, Kayla! From top left to right: Mudasser Qureshi, Nabeela Syed, Pooja Rai, Megan Yerger, Kayla Zisman Meet our Mikva Fellow, Kayla Zisman! Kayla is a rising senior in high school and enjoys helping others, walking her dog, swimming, reading, and learning about our environment. This summer, Kayla helped us with research and outreach projects, data entry, and staffing at community events! Her time at the office has come to an end, and we are so grateful for the time Kayla has dedicated at our office! We would love to see you at these upcoming events! Unplugged Fest 📵 Put down your phones, pick up some fun, and join us at the fourth annual Unplugged Fest at Paulus Park in Lake Zurich on Sunday, August 11th from 11 am - 3 pm!  This is a great event to learn about community resources, connect with your community, and spend time with your friends and family. 😀 Environmental Resource Fair 🌿 ...with Lake County Board Member Marah Altenberg and Congressman Mike Quigley! Date: Saturday, August 24 Time: 10 am - 1 pm Location: Heron Creek Forest Preserve, 22890 N Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove, IL Join local organizations committed to the conservation and preservation of our environment at this Environmental Resource Fair! More details to come. District Highlights Mobile DMV 🚐 The Secretary of State’s Mobile DMV team assisted 48 residents with DMV services, including issuing Real IDs, carrying out address changes, and issuing plate stickers. 🪪 We appreciated the opportunity to help make it easier for residents to fulfill their DMV needs! My team and I are grateful to the Palatine Public Library, the Secretary of State’s Mobile DMV, and the State Treasury's team for all their hard work in serving our district! And thank you to the State Treasurer's team for coming out to the event: They helped our residents start over $10,000 total in claims! Youth Advisory Council 📚 Our Youth Advisory Council has officially finalized and voted to pass a District 51 Community Budget!  Over the past four months, students researched and advocated for the organizations they are most passionate about. This month we will conclude YAC by distributing the funds from the final budget to representatives from the community based organizations that students have prioritized to support for the betterment of the 51st District! District 51 Fellowship Cohort Meeting 💡 Thank you to our District Fellows for attending a cohort meeting with guest speaker Pastor Seth on a sunny summer evening! Pastor Seth shared his journey of becoming a community leader, lobbyist, and pastor, offering students a valuable piece of advice: you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. Pastor Seth shared how he changed his studies from science to the humanities and found his passion by exploring his different interests. Importantly, he emphasized that he is still learning new skills as he grows in his professional roles. A big thank you to Pastor Seth for taking the time to talk with our District 51 fellows! Chatting with constituents at the doors 🤝 I’ve been taking advantage of our great weather and walking the district to meet constituents, let them know about resources through our office, and better understand their biggest concerns.  First, I met Ernie. He told me that he moved from another district and was glad to meet his new state representative and learn about our office!   Ernie is a war veteran. We spoke at length about the need to support veterans’ mental health and how we better do that as a state. I’m so grateful for the insightful conversation Ernie shared with me and for his optimism about how we can be better for future generations. I also got to chat with Michael and Janet at the doors and we spoke about everything — from supporting veterans in our community and property tax reform to what day of the week is the best to eat out for dinner! Keynote Speaker at CAPACD Thank you to the National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development for inviting me to be the Keynote Speaker at their convention! It was inspiring to hear the stories of other Asian American leaders and organizers who spoke about Asian American values, building collective power, and supporting other communities.  Brightpoint Community Block Party 🌞 Thank you Brightpoint for having us at your annual Community Summer Block Party!  My team and I had a blast connecting with constituents, sharing upcoming summer events, and passing out prizes to kids! Our District Fellows also joined us! We all look forward to kicking off next summer with Brightpoint! Learn more about Brightpoint Donating Refurbished Bikes & Equipment 🚲 It was exciting to join Partners for Our Communities and Mike's Bike Shop while they distributed refurbished bikes, helmets, bike racks, and bike locks to ensure that kids in our community can safely enjoy bike riding this summer. I'm grateful for all the work POC does in our community! Learn more about POC Time in Nature 🐞 My Chief of Staff, Megan, and I had an amazing time joining Citizens for Conservation (CFC), an environmental organization focused on restoration efforts, and volunteers. We visited Flint Creek Savanna Preserve and collected Spiderwort seeds, an important native plant for pollinators and a “buffet for butterflies." Learn more about CFC and sign up to volunteer. Business Highlight: Spunky Dunkers 🍩 June 7th was National Donut Day!  Spunky Dunkers has been offering fresh handmade donuts since 1964 and continues to be a landmark small business in our 51st community! Our fellows enjoyed their delicious donuts at our monthly cohort meeting as a treat for all of their hard work. 🍩   Community Updates and Resources Property Tax Payment Updates for Cook County Homeowners The Cook County Treasurer’s Office realizes people can’t always come up with the money in time to pay their property tax bill in full. If you can’t come up with all the money by Aug. 1, there is another option available to you. Cook County homeowners have the option of making partial payments if they are unable to pay their bill in full by the August 1st due date. Learn more Additionally, the Board of Review is now open for appeals to Group 1 townships for their 30-day appeal window on July 22nd. However, all Cook County property owners may now pre-file an appeal through the link below. Pre-file an appeal Teen Substance Use Prevention from SAMHSA Research suggests that one of the most important factors in healthy child development is a strong, open relationship with a parent/guardian. It is important to start talking to your children about alcohol and other drugs before they are exposed to them. The 5 big goals of this conversation should be to communicate that:  1. You disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse 2. You care about your child’s health, wellness, and success 3. Show that you are a good source of information related to alcohol and other substances 4. Show you are paying attention and you will discourage risky behaviors 5. Build your child’s skills and strategies to avoid underage drinking and drug use. Short, frequent discussions can have a real impact on your child’s decisions about alcohol. Children are more likely to avoid drinking when they have a strong, trusting relationship with their parents/guardians.  Sitting down for the “big talk” about alcohol can be intimidating for both you and your child. Try using everyday opportunities to talk, and be honest and express a clear, consistent message that underage drinking is unacceptable. Children who have parents who listen to their feelings and concerns are more likely to say “no” to alcohol. More information LGBTQIA+ Older Adults Health Research Do you want your healthcare to be less one-size-fits-all and more tailored? To be more affirming and inclusive for LGBTQIA+ people and reflect how our communities have unique health experiences and face different barriers? In this workshop led by Midwest Community Engagement Coordinator Cassie Armea-Warren, we’ll explore these questions, what PRIDEnet is doing to catalyze LGBTQIA+ health research, share results from our recent community listening sessions with LGBTQIA+ older adults, and discuss ways to get involved. When: Tuesday, August 27 Time: 11am - 12pm Where: Zoom Pre-register Bike Tour for Respiratory Health For 28 years, the Respiratory Health Association has proudly hosted the CowaLUNGa™ Charity Bike Tour, an annual cycling event dedicated to promoting lung health and clean air. Participants can sign up for a one or two-day ride pedaling over rolling hills through northern Illinois into southern Wisconsin. Along the way, they’ll experience an unparalleled level of camaraderie and support from other cyclists and Respiratory Health Association, while supporting the fight against diseases such as asthma, lung cancer, and COPD. Let's pedal together towards a healthier future! Learn more Fair Car Insurance: Share Your Story Have your car insurance premiums gone way up? Even if you've been a safe driver? The Illinois Legislature is considering legislation to act on unchecked car insurance rate increases and other unfair industry practices and want to hear how these issues are impacting you. The Illinois Coalition for Fair Car Insurance Rates is collecting stories to share them with legislators, reporters and other leaders who can ensure people like you are protected from unfair discrimination and excessive car insurance rates. If you own a car in Illinois, the state requires you to buy car insurance but does not protect you from excessive or unfair rates. In fact, Illinois is one of only two states whose Department of Insurance has no power to reject or modify excessive car insurance rates. Illinois also allows insurance companies to unfairly base rates on who you are, using factors like credit scores, education levels, jobs and zip codes, rather than how safe a driver you are. It can lead to absurd results: safe Illinois drivers with clean driving records and poor credit pay hundreds of dollars more for insurance on average than drivers with a drunk driving conviction and excellent credit.  Tell your story Veteran Medical Foster Home Program Lovell Federal Health Care Center is actively seeking individuals to open their homes to become Medical Foster Home caregivers for Veterans. A Medical Foster Home provides a safe, supportive, long-term care option for Veterans in a comfortable home environment. Medical Foster Homes can be an alternative to nursing homes for Veterans. A Medical Foster Home may be appropriate for those who need nursing home care but prefer a non-institutional setting with fewer residents. The homes are private residences where caregivers (and relief caregivers) provide room and board, personal care, and supervision 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Caregivers help Veterans carry out activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. While living in a Medical Foster Home, Veterans receive health care services from the Lovell FHCC Home-Based Primary Care team. Interested caregivers, Veterans and others who want to apply, or get more information about theprogram, should call 224-610-3784, or visit the website. Summer fun-tivities! Free Museum Passes 🏛️ Take advantage of our District 51 Museum Card which authorizes you and up to three other people FREE (yes, free!) general admission to one of many museums in Illinois! Some of these museums include … Adler Planetarium  Chicago Botanic Garden Museum of Science and Industry  Shedd Aquarium  And so many more! Share your museum adventures with us by tagging us on social media or emailing pooja@repsyed.com. We can’t wait to see your adventures! RESERVE YOUR PASS TODAY Student Summer Gym Membership 💪 Starting June 1st, students ages 14 - 19 can work out for FREE at Planet Fitness ALL SUMMER LONG! PRE-REGISTER Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! Make the most of your summer by exploring the wide range of community events available. To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, be sure to visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library's and park district's websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide Have a little one? Check out the Early Childhood Developmental Enrichment Center's Summer Fun Calendar! State and Federal Updates and Resources The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. Member Legislative Database The Illinois Collaboration on Youth (ICOY) Member Legislative Data offers a list of service providers throughout the state. Explore the database to learn more about organizations in your community and the services that they offer by visiting the website! You can also visit my website and explore the interactive District 51 map for service providers, schools, small businesses, community-based organizations, and electronic recycling centers. If there is something you think we should add, send us an email and let us know!  ICOY District 51 Map News & Opportunities for Students FIRST EVER Teen Summer DMV Program 🚗 The Illinois Secretary of State is launching the very first Teen Summer DMV Program on Saturdays June 1st to August 31st between the hours of 8 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is dedicated to providing  DMV services exclusively to teen drivers who have recently completed a driver’s ed course to schedule an appointment to obtain their first driver’s license or permit. This effort is part of the office’s modernization plan to reduce wait times and provide permits and driver’s licenses quickly and conveniently to fit with parents’ busy schedules. Youth Alcohol Awareness Summit Program The Illinois Liquor Control Commission (ILCC)  is launching their Youth Alcohol Awareness Summit (YAAS) at this year’s Illinois State Fair! This summit aims to educate young people from 7th grade through college on the dangers of alcohol abuse.  Join the ILCC on August 13th from 10 am - 3 pm for this important event to foster conversations about alcohol use and enjoy the State Fair at our State’s Capitol, Springfield.   New Plant-Based School Lunches Available at All Schools Plant-based school lunches will be made available starting this school year to all 2 million public school students in Illinois who submit a request.  Plant-based lunches served in schools not only taste great according to students themselves, but they also meet the national school lunch meal requirements, ensuring students get enough protein. These meals are also richer in fiber, helping reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and high blood sugar, and they improve brain health, which can help their performance in the classroom. Grant opportunities   NEW: District 51 Grants Listserv We're setting up a dedicated grant listserv to share info about local, state, and federal grants. If you would like to receive updates on future grant opportunities, please complete the form to be added to our listserv. Sign up to recieve grant updates here!   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  Federal Grant Database In order to support state and local government efforts in furthering inclusive workforce development, career readiness and employment supports, the State Exchange on Employment & Disability (SEED) has curated a non-exhaustive list of relevant federal grant opportunities available to states and localities.  Visit grants.gov to explore grant opportunities and application requirements! View grants   State Services Updates 📣 Summer EBT Program In the summer, there about concern of food insecurity among students who rely on free or reduced breakfast and lunches for the academic year. To address this issue, there is a new summer EBT program this year, providing extra benefits to families with children from June to August. Families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible child to purchase groceries. Funds will be delivered either to a SNAP/Link card or mailed through IDHS,   The two main ways to sign up are through a School that Operates the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) where all meals are served free, or through a Government funded program including SNAP/Link, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF/cash), and Youth in Care/foster children. Learn more about eligibility and apply Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. Applications are due by August 15th, or until funds are exhausted. Pilot Program for Professional Licenses The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has launched a pilot program that will enable select professionals who submit paper applications to submit their payments online! The program is an effort to streamline the application review process and decrease wait time between when applicants submit their applications and receive their professional license.  Click here to learn more If you are applying for your professional license and need assistance in the application process or updates, please do not hesitate to contact my office. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway Suite 9 | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

June Newsletter! ☀️

Happy June, friend!  I am thrilled to be back in the district full-time to reconnect with our community and work on local initiatives. This month, we have plenty to share with you from the community, our district office, Springfield, and the state. First, I want to invite you to join us at our Mobile DMV in Palatine this June! REGISTER HERE We are partnering with the Illinois Secretary of State's Mobile DMV Unit to bring selected services to Palatine area residents at an accessible and convenient location. Services include... Drivers license (duplicates, corrected, and renewal) State ID (duplicates, corrected, and renewal) Vehicle registration stickers Organ / tissue donor (with DL / ID services) Voter registration (with DL / ID services)  Please review the graphic for a full list of available services, required documents, and accepted forms of payment.  Registration is REQUIRED. Please complete the form and reach out to pooja@repsyed.com with any questions. Plus, we will be joined by the Office of the State Treasurers's iCash unit!  The Treasurer's office will set up a table to help you look yourself up to see if you have any unclaimed property (cash that should be in your hands!) and help you start your claim. Celebrating Pride Month! Pride Month is a celebration of equality and the strides we've made to fight against discrimination. It’s a time to reflect on past struggles and support ongoing efforts for LGBTQIA+ rights. Across the country, we see the danger of rising extremism, and that’s why Illinois continues to stand up for LGBTQIA+ rights! Legislative Session As this session comes to a close and I reflect on the work we've done, I am proud to say that the bills that I passed this session truly came from our community here in the 51st District. We took strides in... Healthare Accessibility Access to high-quality healthcare for all Illinoisans has always been an important issue to me and to the people of the 51st District. That is why I have prioritized reforms to make healthcare better and more affordable. By expanding the list of breast cancer screenings that must be covered under insurance at no cost-sharing, we have ensured that all people with dense breast tissue can access screening that actually catches their cancer. We know that early diagnosis is critical to ensure that people with breast cancer diagnoses become survivors. I am proud that we've passed a bill that will help save lives. And, with the help of great advocates, we also made strides in setting up a Prescription Drug Affordability Board - a step I know is fundamental to holding big pharma accountable and making sure that Illinoisans can afford essential medications. I look forward to continuing this effort over the summer. As a General Assembly, we also passed the Healthcare Protection Act, which caps double-digit premium increases and ends gimmicks like pre-clearance and step therapy that allow insurance companies to deny needed care. Responsiveness to our Community I am happy to say that we passed HB4804 out of both chambers, a bill that will streamlines public safety responses to facilitate communication and clarity during a disruption in a community’s water supply. This bill both allows public water providers to use consumers contact information in the event of a water disruption and requires that they notify their local fire departments and dispatch centers. This was a direct response to a water disruption event that occurred last summer in District 51. Meeting with dvocates in Springfield It was wonderful as always to speak to our Palatine Firefighters in Springfield! I’m grateful for their advocacy on issues important to firefighters and to our community 🧑‍🚒🚒  I’ve been working with Illinois Action for Children to pass legislation that addresses the workforce shortage in the early childhood education field. We passed HB814 off the House floor which helps the state collect more information about our early childcare workforce and better understand the pressures they face. I got the chance to speak with counselors who are part of the state's Access to Justice program to provide legal support to Illinoisans. Thank you to the counselors for everything you do! It was wonderful to meet with the Stone Scholastic Academy students and show them around Springfield! Their dedication and passion were truly inspiring, and it was a reminder of the power of community involvement in shaping our policies and future. Community organizations, advocates, and constituents are the driving force behind meaningful change, and their efforts are invaluable. I look forward to continuing our work together to create a stronger Illinois for all residents through policy changes in the next session and meeting with advocates in the district!  51st District Highlights & Events Monthly Youth Advisory Council! In April, we started the District 51 Community Budget Project with our Youth Advisory Council where students researched and compiled a list of community-based organizations whose services benefit constituents. In May, students continued researching community-based organizations and created a final list of organizations ranging from education, environment, healthcare, and other fields.  There are only TWO meetings left this year!! Join us in June to finalize the District 51 community budget from the finalized list and in July to distribute the funds! 💰 Next meeting details: Date: Monday, June 22 Time: 6 pm - 7 pm Location: Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 2 Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council Rep. Syed's Monthly Office Hours 📚 ✨ EVENT GIVEAWAY! ✨ We hope to see you at these and more community events this summer! Don't forget to grab or bring your District 51 Events Bookmark to collect your stamps. Attend three events, get three stamps, and receive a special giveaway item for being an active community member!   Community Updates and Resources Summer fun-tivities! Free Museum Passes 🏛️ Take advantage of our District 51 Museum Card which authorizes you and up to three other people FREE (yes, free!) general admission to one of many museums in Illinois! Some of these museums include … Adler Planetarium  Chicago Botanic Garden Museum of Science and Industry  Shedd Aquarium  And so many more! Share your museum adventures with us by tagging us on social media or emailing pooja@repsyed.com. We can’t wait to see your adventures! RESERVE YOUR PASS TODAY Student Summer Gym Membership 💪 Starting June 1st, students ages 14 - 19 can work out for FREE at Planet Fitness ALL SUMMER LONG! Pre-register here! Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️ While my monthly newsletter highlights a few community events, there's so much more happening! Make the most of your summer by exploring the wide range of community events available. To stay updated on all the activities and events in our District, be sure to visit my social media pages (linked at the bottom of this page) and check out your local library's and park district's websites. The 51st is home to two fantastic public libraries and park districts that offer year-round activities and events for everyone. For Palatine area residents, visit The Palatine Public Library calendar The Palatine Park District programming and events page For Ela Area residents, visit The Ela Area Public Library calendar The Village of Lake Zurich's Recreation Guide State Updates and Resources The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 Did you know that the 51st District has over $700,000 in property value that the state holds until residents claim it?! Since 2023, my office has helped return over $200,000 back to the hands of our constituents! Checking if you have an available claim is quick and easy!  Visit the ICash website Complete the information needed  Look for your name and address and claim anything that is yours!  Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. Or speak with an iCash representative at our Mobile DMV event on Saturday, June 29th from 9am-1pm at the Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 1.  Opportunities for Students FIRST EVER Teen Summer DMV Program 🚗 The Illinois Secretary of State is launching the very first Teen Summer DMV Program on Saturdays June 1st to August 31st between the hours of 8 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is dedicated to providing  DMV services exclusively to teen drivers who have recently completed a driver’s ed course to schedule an appointment to obtain their first driver’s license or permit. This effort is part of the office’s modernization plan to reduce wait times and provide permits and driver’s licenses quickly and conveniently to fit with parents’ busy schedules. ComEd  CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Youth Academy Summer Program ComEd CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Youth Academy Summer Program application is now OPEN to high school juniors and seniors!  This FREE summer career development program offers skills and knowledge for a career path in the energy sector. Participants will have the opportunity to use cool gadgets, like drones, while building community and developing professional development skills. Additionally, upon successful program completion participants will receive a $350 stipend! The program is only available at four YMCAs, including the Buehler YMCA from July 8th to July 26th! Visit www.ymcachicago.org/construct24 to learn more and apply. Grant opportunities   Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program The U.S Department of Defense launched the Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program!  This grant will fund programs that improve the capacity of education systems and communities to create impactful STEM educational experiences for students and teachers and prepare the 21st century STEM workforce. Apply by June 16th   State Services Updates  📣 Summer EBT Program In the summer, there about concern of food insecurity among students who rely on free or reduced breakfast and lunches for the academic year. To address this issue, there is a new summer EBT program this year, providing extra benefits to families with children from June to August. Families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible child to purchase groceries. Funds will be delivered either to a SNAP/Link card or mailed through IDHS,   The two main ways to sign up are through a School that Operates the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) where all meals are served free, or through a Government funded program including SNAP/Link, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF/cash), and Youth in Care/foster children. Learn more about eligibility and apply here Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program will assist eligible families with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills. Program Year 2024 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as an expanded program year, as well as reinstating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first. Applications are due by August 15th, or until funds are exhausted. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway Suite 9 | Palatine, IL 60067 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice

May Newsletter! 🌸

April showers bring May flowers, legislative updates, district recaps, and more! I’m excited to share what I have been up to in the district and in Springfield during our sunnier weather and longer days. In April we passed our bills out of the House and onto the Senate, I enjoyed Lake Zurich's annual Arbor Day celebrations and worked with students from across the district in various civic initiatives. Make sure you read this newsletter to the end for session updates, district office highlights, upcoming events, and resources from the community and state! ☀️ Celebrating Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month Did you know that May is dedicated to recognizing the history, achievements, and experiences of APIDA, or Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American, individuals and communities?  In 2016, Theresa Mah made history as the first Asian American elected to the Illinois General Assembly. The caucus has grown since then to nine members who advocate for social justice, language equity, immigration rights and more! Learn more about Asian American Caucus members here!  I was honored to speak at the Asian American Action Day where we discussed the importance of advocacy and empowerment within the Asian American community. It was inspiring to see so many individuals, especially young Asian Americans, come together to raise awareness and advocate for issues impacting our community. DISTRICT 51 We have trailblazing Asian Americans not only in our legislature but right here in our community! I am honored to shout out …  Rita Soni Patel Rita is a pharmacist and environmental advocate from Palatine Cool Cities. My office had the honor of collaborating with Rita to host an environmental policy and advocacy community conversation last year. Rita's dedication to environmental causes is truly inspiring, and her expertise has been invaluable in advancing our shared goals of sustainability and conservation.  Learn more about Palatine Cool Cities here!  Ruby Arun Ruby is the CEO and founder of Mission:MathMinds, where she is dedicated to uplifting young women and girls entering STEM fields, providing mentorship, engaging in community service abroad, and much more. What's most inspiring about Ruby's story is that she's a student! I am extremely grateful that the 51st District has passionate young leaders like Ruby who are working towards a more equitable future. Learn more about Mission:MathMinds here! Pooja Rai Have you ever come to one of our events? Learned something from our social media posts? Called our office looking for assistance? None of this would be possible without our Outreach Director, Pooja Rai. She is an irreplaceable member of our team and works tirelessly to serve District 51. Pooja is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago and joined our team shortly Rep. Syed took office in January of 2023. Her incredible dedication and work since day one makes our office run. We know many in the community hold Pooja near and dear, and so do we! Thank you, Pooja! In commemorating APIDA Heritage Month, let's also reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the APIDA community, and continue striving to foster inclusivity and equity. Legislative Updates Rep Syed speaking at the National Donate Life Month press conference in Springfield I was honored to join Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Senator Belt, and Ray's family in April for National Donate Life Month. Ray's family shared that when Ray passed away, he saved people's lives by being an organ donor. I'm grateful for this opportunity to raise awareness of the beauty of donation and encourage more people to register. I'm proud to be a living organ donor and feel incredibly grateful that my position allows me to advocate for organ donation in the State legislature. Last year in Illinois, 877 donors and families said yes to organ donation, helping to enable over 2,200 lifesaving organ transplants in our state. Many more donated tissue and corneas to heal tens of thousands of people. Thankful for those who make the important decision to say YES to saving lives. 🫀 We had six bills pass through the House and onto the Senate! We've introduced all of these bills to you in the past, so I wanted to highlight the Senate Bills that I am carrying in the House now. SB3164 Passed the Elementary and Secondary Education Committee ✔️ This bill is an example of a trailer bill, which is a bill that is passed after an original bill, taking into account information gathered about the impact and effectiveness of the previous bill. The original act prevents state funds from being used on standardized testing for students in prekindergarten through second grade on the grounds that those tests are stressful and create an unnecessary burden on children who are still getting acclimated to learning environments. This bill expands on the few exceptions of the previous bill and allows for state funds for advanced placement, dual credit, and other enriched curriculum testing, which are required under the Accelerated Placement Act, so schools can better tailor curricula to meet the needs of these accelerated learners. SB3452 Passed the Revenue and Finance Committee ✔️ The goal here is to save taxpayer dollars by reducing the cost burden on the Department of Revenue, while simultaneously getting rid of statutory hearings in situations where they serve no purpose. SB3452 streamlines bond requirements under the Tobacco Products Tax Act, and eliminates unnecessary administrative hearings in cases involving the seizure of tobacco or cannabis contraband when owners/possessors of the contraband waived their rights to a hearing and consented to the forfeiture.  I appreciate opportunities to work on reducing burdens on both our hardworking taxpayers and state employees, and this bill is a great example of an opportunity to do just that. District 51 Highlights We hosted our FIRST Community Blood Donation Drive with Versiti!   Blood donation drive room at Ela Public Library 05/04/24 We had several donors whose kindness and commitment helped replenish the type O blood preferred in transfusion-type emergencies at our drive, benefiting patients of all ethnic backgrounds. Rep. Syed with two community members who donated blood on 05/04/24 Rep. Syed with District 51 fellows at the community blood donation drive on 05/04/24 A heartfelt thank you to all who donated blood, Ela Public Library, and Versiti's team for their collaboration and the work they do every day.    The Lake Zurich Girl Scouts earned their Democracy Badge! ✔️  I got the chance to spend a Saturday with the Lake Zurich Girls Scouts at their Democracy Badge Bash! We spoke about the importance of civic involvement, the structure of our democracy, and our federal, state, and local elected officials.   I’m grateful to have spent time with young leaders in our community and I left knowing the future is bright 🌟 Thank you LZ Girl Scouts! Wellness Resource Fair  The Buehler YMCA collaborated on their Healthy Kids Day with the United Palatine Coalition’s Wellness Resource Fair for one big, successful event! 🩺 Rep Syed with Buehler YMCA Executive Director Ed Heiser and United Palatine Coalition's Anne Campbell on 04/20/24 We had an amazing time sharing resources, including details about our upcoming events and how to apply for state health benefits. Our District 51 Fellows also joined us for their first event and did a great job engaging with constituents, helping us share our resources, and having fun! Thank you to the Buehler YMCA and United Palatine Coalition for teaming up to host this fantastic event for our community. Looking forward to next year’s fair! Tour of District 95's New Adult Transitional Facility I had a wonderful time touring Lake Zurich District 95's new Young Adult Center and seeing the new additions and improvements to Lake Zurich High School.  This new facility includes resources for employment education and independent living for eligible students ages 18 to 22 with IEPs to encourage and support their transition into adulthood. I am excited to see all the ways this new facility supports our young adults!  I was also excited to see the improvements that LZHS has made over the past several years, adding an engineering wing and prioritizing collaborative spaces for the students to learn. Thanks to Superintendent Gallt and Principal Walsh for the tour!  Top right image: Rep. Syed with Megan Yerger (Chief of Staff) and Lake Zurich's Young Adult Center staff member on 04/22/24 Bottom left image: Rep. Syed with Superintendent Gallt and LZHS Principal Walsh.   🎉 Congratulations... Rep. Syed with RISE Award recipient Mario Diaz Albarran and other CCSD15 educators and administrators on 04/22/24 Congratulations to Mario Diaz Albarran for receiving the Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award!  This award is given to one person every year by the US Department of Education, and we are so fortunate to have the best of the best right here at Lincoln Elementary School. Mario was selected for his dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our community. Plus we got to see a school full of kiddos chanting MAR-I-O. I feel very inspired by Mario’s leadership and I’m so glad to see him get national recognition for his work.  Students holding sign in support of RISE award recipient in image to the right Celebrating our Home on Arbor Day and Earth Day 🌏 While I was in the district, I attended some events celebrating the only place we call home for Arbor Day and Earth Day! 💚 Rep. Syed holding up a cross section cutting of over a century-old oak tree stump on 04/27/24. I had a wonderful time attending my second tree planting and park clean-up at Paulus Park for Arbor Day!  Some fun facts I learned...  🌳 Villages that have ‘Grove’ in their name, such as Long Grove or Buffalo Grove, were named because of the abundance of trees in the area 🌳 Oak trees support water conservation, provide erosion control, serve as a shelter for wildlife, and are hosts to more wild species than any other tree 🌳 Acorns are very nutritious Rep. Syed with constituents and Lake Zurich Park District officials for a tree planting to celebrate Arbor Day on 04/27/24 Thank you to the Village of Lake Zurich for putting together an event to teach us about the natural history of our area and remind us how important it is that we protect and cherish our wildlife! Speaking with Harper College students about the state of the Environment Rep. Syed speaking to the Environmental Club & Honors Program students at Harper College on 04/24/24. I loved speaking with the Environmental Club & Honors Program at Harper College! ♻️🌱 I spoke about my journey to becoming a State Rep, the action our state has taken to combat climate change, and the power of having young voices in politics. There is a lot of passion for environment and climate justice among young people and it's so exciting to see. The future is bright! While I was at Harper College, I met with their President, Dr. Proctor, to talk about higher education, legislative priorities, & how we can support students.  I’m grateful for the open and consistent communication we’ve had with Harper College and appreciate the opportunities to see their incredible campus. Rep. Syed walking with Dr. Proctor at Harper College on 04/24/24 Monthly Student Engagement Meetings! Guess what we started in our Youth Advisory Council? Our District 51 Community Budget Project with our Youth Advisory Council! Students researched and compiled a list of community-based organizations whose services benefit constituents. Over the next two months, our YAC meetings will focus on debating and advocating for these organizations to receive an allocation of money out of our $1000 budget. In July, students will be able to donate that money to the organizations! 💰 If you missed our April meeting and are curious about the state-level budget-making process, please join us for our next meeting on Tuesday, May 28th from 6 pm - 7 pm at the Palatine Public Library. Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council A handful of our Youth Advisory Council Students have also joined the District 51 Fellowship Program for a more hands-on experience with my district office.  Rep. Syed speaking to the District 51 Fellows at the District Office on 04/25/24 Guest speaker, Anusha Thotakaru, speaking with the District 51 Fellows at the District Office on 04/25/24 This session, we discussed what it means to be a public servant and had a guest speaker, Anusha Thotakaru, the Deputy Director at Citizen Action Illinois! Anusha shared her journey in advocacy, spanning from her formative years to her current leadership position. She discussed her diverse experiences across various sectors of public service, her driving passion, and her current collaboration with legislators to create and help pass impactful legislation. The fellows shared insights into their current career aspirations and what motivates their passion for roles in public service or at the intersection of public service and other fields. Thank you, Anusha, for sharing your journey with our fellows, and to all the students who dedicated time to attend amidst the stress of AP testing prep! ⭐ Early Childhood Legislative Discussion  I'm grateful to have participated in an Early Childhood Legislative Forum hosted by Raising Illinois along with Clearbrook, Partners for our Communities, the United Palatine Coalition, and Advance Preschool at Harper College. During the forum, we discussed the current needs of early childhood education and care including early intervention, child tax credit, and the creation of a new Department on Early Childhood. I also spoke about my bill which intends to support early childcare workers.  It was wonderful to get this coalition together for a unique look at the state of early childhood in Illinois and to understand the work that lies ahead of us! Upcoming Events 📢 Rep. Syed's Monthly Office Hours 📚 BrightSummer Block Party My office will have a table at Brightpoint’s FREE Summer Block Party on Friday, June 7th from 3 pm - 6 pm at the Palatine Township Center! This is a wonderful opportunity to get some sun and learn about community services.  Brightpoint is an organization in Palatine providing community-based programming for families with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers that is designed to enhance the development of very young children.  Learn more about Brightpoint’s available services and eligibility here. ✨ EVENT GIVEAWAY! ✨ We hope to see you at these and more community events this summer! Don't forget to grab or bring your District 51 Events Bookmark to collect your stamps. Attend three events, get three stamps, and receive a special giveaway item for being an active community member!   Community Updates and Resources Free White Sox Tickets for Veterans! ⚾ The Cook County Clerk’s Office is teaming up with the Chicago White Sox to offer Cook County veterans and active-duty military personnel one free ticket for a weekday White Sox game Monday-Thursday with their Cook County Military and Veterans Discount Card. Learn more and apply here! AgeOptions Needs YOUR Help! AgeOptions conducted a comprehensive community needs assessment survey last year to learn about the current and future needs of older adults living in suburban Cook County. However, few non-English speaking residents participated in this survey.  This year, the survey is available online in an array of languages including, Spanish, Tagalog, Hindi, and more! It is due TODAY May 14th. Take the survey TODAY State Updates and Resources Opportunities for Students IPS Essay Competition The Illinois Psychiatric Society’s Carl C. Bell, MD Memorial Award Essay Competition is now open to all high school students!  The award recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, their essay will be presented at the 2024 IPS Annual Meeting, and published in the official IPS newsletter publication. Second and third place award recipients will receive a $250 cash prize. Apply by June 1st Photo Contest 📸 The Cream of the Crop Photo Contest is part of the Illinois State Treasurer’s Ag Invest program and offers Illinois students an opportunity to showcase their most innovative or scenic pictures that depict their vision of agriculture in our state. Winning photos will be featured in Ag Invest marketing material and next year’s Cream of the Crop calendar, as well as at the 2024 Illinois State Fair. Students can submit up to two photographs and Bright Start College Savings scholarships will be awarded to the top winners in each of the three age categories! Apply by June 14th Attn: Future Pharmacists! The new CVS Health/American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Community Pharmacy Health Equity Award aims to alleviate financial barriers for 21 outstanding student pharmacists, granting them $20,000 each. The initiative is designed to foster diversity of thought, background, perspective, and experience, ultimately enhancing pharmacy education and patient health. Apply by June 16th Grant opportunities Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program The U.S Department of Defense launched the Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program!  This grant will fund programs that improve the capacity of education systems and communities to create impactful STEM educational experiences for students and teachers and prepare the 21st century STEM workforce. Apply by June 16th   SNAP Resources Summer EBT Program In the summer, there about concern of food insecurity among students who rely on free or reduced breakfast and lunches for the academic year. To address this issue, there is a new summer EBT program this year, providing extra benefits to families with children from June to August. Families will receive a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible child to purchase groceries. Funds will be delivered either to a SNAP/Link card or mailed through IDHS,   The two main ways to sign up are through a School that Operates the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) where all meals are served free, or through a Government funded program including SNAP/Link, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF/cash), and Youth in Care/foster children. Learn more about eligibility and apply here Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. Visit the website to learn more and apply As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 9, Palatine, IL 60067 Unsubscribe nabeela@repsyed.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by nabeela@repsyed.com powered by Try email marketing for free today!

Spring into Legislative and District Updates with Me! 🌺

April showers might be coming down these last couple of days, but they haven't stopped us from getting some exciting work done. This past month, we made progress on our legislative priorities, our office attended our first community expo of the year, and we met our new District 51 Fellowship cohort!  In this month’s newsletter, we’ll cover the need-to-know about session, talk about our district office highlights, and give you a glimpse of what's to come. Don't forget to read to the end to see current resources from the community and state which may benefit you and your neighbors. Reflecting on Women's History Month I want to introduce you to some of the incredible women of the 103rd General Assembly and District 51... GENERAL ASSEMBLY Meet the first Black woman to serve as the State Representative for the 92nd District AND the Chief Budgeteer for Illinois, Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth!  Leader Gordon-Booth is an advocate for criminal legal reform and economic development. As the Chief Budgeteer, she oversees the state's budgeting process, leads negotiations, and works to ensure that Illinois remains a financially responsible state. Introducing this trailblazing woman who made history as the first Asian-American in the Illinois General Assembly eight years ago, Representative Theresa Mah. It's astonishing to reflect on the fact that until 2016, there was no state legislator representing Asian Americans who shared their cultural identity. Representative Mah continues to pave the way for all Illinoisans through her unwavering dedication to civil rights, immigrant rights, and language equity.   DISTRICT 51 I had the honor of defending HB4180 in the Insurance committee along with a constituent of District 51. Leslie, CEO of My Density Matters, reached out about the need to improve access to breast cancer screenings, especially for women with dense breast tissue. HB4180, which expands insurance coverage to molecular breast imaging, was passed out of committee thanks to her testimony. The goal of this legislation is to make breast cancer screening more accessible by requiring an additional form to be covered by insurance!   And of course, our wonderful women-run district office. We love to celebrate all the achievements women have made to better our community. Additional Legislative Updates Rep Syed welcoming visitors in the House Gallery to Springfield Our deadline for passing bills through committee is today, Friday, April 5th. That means the next step is for these bills to be voted on by the rest of the House of Representatives before moving on to the Senate. Here are some more bills that passed out of committee since the last time I updated you... HB4144 Passed the Energy & Environment Committee ✔️ This bill requires public water utilities to notify fire departments and dispatch centers in the case of a water disruption event. This common-sense piece of legislation was introduced because of a real concern in our district and it aims to increase fire safety protections and support our first responders in doing their critical jobs. HB5459 Passed the Public Utilities Committee ✔️ This bill helps to ensure that sanitary districts have reliable water usage data to prepare their billings by codifying into law that, upon request of a sanitary district, water utilities provide that data in an accurate and timely fashion. HB1168 Passed Judicial-Criminal Committee ✔️ House Bill 1168 would prohibit the DNA profiles of victims from being submitted into any DNA database. Though federal law prohibits the use of victims’ DNA in national databases, Illinois doesn’t provide the same protection at the state level. Instead, under current law, law enforcement agencies are allowed to use the DNA profiles of victims in databases that allow them to be compared to evidence retrieved from unrelated crime scenes. This bill would prohibit the DNA profiles of victims from being submitted to a DNA database so more victims of crime can get the care and justice they need. I had the pleasure of welcoming many visitors to Springfield this month... Grateful to Dave and Leslie for making the trip to Springfield to testify on breast cancer screening access 💗 This was my page for the day, Annette! Annette is a student at Stevenson HS and a constituent in the 51st District. She joined me on the House floor when she visited Springfield with several of her classmates.  I loved running into two of my favorite AARP advocates in Springfield who spoke to me about creating a caregiver portal that would be a one-stop shop for family caregivers to obtain resources. 2023 2024 I was glad to chat with our local law enforcement about some of their priorities this legislative session and to understand what district-specific needs we have. We decided to make this selfie an annual tradition! District 51 Highlights & Events Meet our District 51 Fellows!  From healthcare equity to criminal justice reform to gun safety, we dove into what issues gets these students passionate and civically engaged. Thank you to all the enthusiastic students who joined us! We look forward to many fruitful meetings with this group.   Can't commit to being a District 51 Fellow but still want to get involved? Our next Youth Advisory Council meeting will be held on Monday, April 29th at the Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 2 between 6 pm - 7 pm.  Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council   Catalyst Legislative Luncheon I was delighted to attend Catalyst's first Legislative Lunch alongside municipal, state, and federal officials. We had the opportunity to listen to middle and high school students share their experiences and discuss policy ideas about protecting youth.  Students passionately advocated for expanding the vape flavor ban as a strategy to prevent vaping and encourage healthy decision-making in young people.  Thank you to Stevenson High School for hosting the first of many Catalyst Legislative Lunches.   Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce Community Expo Community events are truly a rewarding experience because we get the opportunity to engage with constituents and share valuable information about district happenings. We discussed the bills I filed this legislative session, what constituents' top concerns are, our upcoming events, and more. Rep. Syed talking with a constituent at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 Rep. Syed shaking hands with a constituent at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 Rep. Syed talking to a family of four at the Lake Zurich Community Expo on 3/9/24 A big thank you to everyone at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for their hard work in organizing this wonderful community event! Looking forward to next year already. 🥳 Suhoor Fest! Rep. Syed excitedly posing with a thumbs up in front of her table at Suhoor Fest on 3/29/24 Thank you to The Illinois Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Islamic Society of the Northwest Suburbs for hosting the first Suhoor Fest at Rolling Meadows's new Masjid!  Suhoor is a pre-dawn meal for those observing Ramadan before they begin their day-long fast. It was amazing to be able to celebrate with so many residents and strengthen our connection with the community!  Rep. Syed with Rep. Rashid and his kids at Suhoor Fest on 3/29 A highlight for me was engaging with our younger constituents by sharing facts about Illinois and discussing the role of a legislator. Rep. Syed with a group of constituents at Suhoor Fest on 3/29 Rep. Syed with a group of kids at Suhoor Fest spinning a mini prize wheel on 3/29 As Ramadan approaches its final two weeks, Suhoor Fest has enriched our sense of community during this time, and I eagerly anticipate what else lies ahead until Eid. Our District Office wishes all those who celebrate a blessed month. Ramadan Mubarak! 🌙   Reminder: 2024 Solar Eclipse just DAYS AWAY! 🌑 ☀️  On Monday, April 8th there will be a solar eclipse that goes through our state! To raise awareness and promote eye health safety, the Illinois Optometric Association supplied our office with 1,000 eclipse glasses! 🕶️ We officially handed off our last batch of eclipse glasses to our cutest constituent! Thank you to everyone who came by our office to collect yours, we had a blast handing them out. And, we send our sincerest gratitude to the Illinois Optometric Association for providing such an important and fun giveaway. Wishing everyone a safe and exciting solar eclipse viewing on Monday! Find information about watching the solar eclipse in Southern Illinois by clicking on the link.  Harper College is also hosting a community viewing (information below!) Upcoming Events... WE ARE HOSTING A COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE! 📢📢📢 Many patients are also more likely to find a better match when they receive blood transfusions from individuals of similar ethnic backgrounds. Donating blood is a powerful way for our community to rally around these patients and save lives. Our blood drive with Versiti will be held on Saturday, May 4th from 10:00 am - 2:30 pm at the Ela Area Public Library! Please email pooja@repsyed.com with any questions.  Book Appointment United Palatine Coalition's Annual Wellness Resource Fair 🌸 This FREE, fun-filled day will include workshops, screenings, fitness classes, food, fun activities, and giveaways! This is a great event to familiarize yourself with community resources and services provided by local organizations. The fair will be held on Saturday, April 20th from 9 am - 12 pm at the Buehler YMCA! Our office will have a table, and we hope to see you there! Rep. Syed's Monthly Office Hours 📚   Lake Zurich Arbor Day Park Clean Up 🌳 We are excited to join the Village of Lake Zurich again this year in celebrating Arbor Day with a park clean-up! Here's a picture from last year... Rep Syed. helping plant a tree for Arbor Day 2023 The kick-off will be at Paulus Park near the Barn with a tree planting ceremony by the Village Arborist and members of the Lake Zurich Tree Commission. Then, volunteers will depart for their assigned parks to clean up. Click here to learn more and sign up. When: Saturday, April 27 starting at 9 AM. Sustainable Living Presentation Learn how to make a difference this Earth Day by joining Palatine Cool Cities, the Palatine Public Library, and Clean Up - Give Back Palatine’s Earth Day presentation to learn more about actionable ideas for sustainable living! 🌎 When: April 22nd at 7:00 PM Where: Palatine Library Main Branch, Meeting Room 1 🎉 Congratulations to... Ruby Arun The CEO and Founder of Mission:MathMinds, was awarded the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award in the category of Outstanding Youth Volunteer! These awards recognize individual volunteers through a statewide award program to highlight the importance of volunteerism and community service in the State of Illinois. Congratulations to Ruby for this well-deserved recognition! Our office is extremely grateful for her dedication to serving our community! Mission:MathMinds   Community Updates and Resources College scholarship opportunity for youth who experienced homelessness The Chicago Coalition For The Homeless 2024 Scholarship awards $4,000 per year to five graduating high school seniors who experienced homelessness while in school and have been admitted or enrolled in a 2 or 4 year college or university for 2024-2025 school year. The award is for $4,000 per year. Applications are due by May 10th! Apply Here   IPS Essay Competition The Illinois Psychiatric Society’s Carl C. Bell, MD Memorial Award Essay Competition is now open to all high school students!  The award recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, their essay will be presented at the 2024 IPS Annual Meeting, and published in the official IPS newsletter publication. Second and third place award recipients will receive a $250 cash prize. Submissions are due by June 1st! Apply here Palatine Fire Department’s Smoke Alarm Program 🚒  The Palatine Fire Department’s smoke alarm program is a no-cost, needs-based endeavor, with the goal that at-risk and at-need residents are protected in the event of a fire. Palatine residents with limited financial means, disability, seniors, and those unable to install their alarms because of other physical limitations can qualify for free smoke alarms, while supplies last.  Call (847) 202-6310 or email smokealarms@palatine.il.us with your name, address, and phone number to participate in the program. Visit the website here for more information.     Clothing Donation Drive! While you tackle your spring cleaning, consider donating your gently used clothes, shoes, jackets, purses, accessories, and household items. Contribute to this annual event on Sunday, April 14th at Daisy’s Ice Cream in Palatine from 5 pm - 9 pm. Learn more about Wings by visiting their website, and stay up to date on the Palatine Chapter of March for Our Lives on their Instagram page.  State Updates and Resources April is Financial Literacy Month! 💰  Springs towards a brighter financial future by checking out resources from The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office Financial Wellness Hub, which includes … Affording a home Planning for retirement Understanding Social Security benefits Moving past debt toward savings.  Create a secure and free account here to complete a checkup, and receive personalized recommendations about how you can get a better handle on your own.   Introducing: The Department of Early Childcare This survey from the Illinois Department of Early Childcare provides an opportunity for individuals, particularly for parents and early child care providers, to ask questions and offer input regarding the transition process. The vision is to create a future where Illinois stands as the best state in the nation for families raising young children.  Take the survey Job Fair: Work for Illinois!  Curious about what opportunities are available with the State of Illinois? Visit the Work for Illinois 2024 Job Fair on Saturday, April 6th from 10 am - 1 pm at India Hub located at 930 National Parkway, Schaumburg. The following are the confirmed Agencies: Department of Public Health Department of Family and Child Service Department of Human Services Department of Innovation and Technology Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity Department of Transportation Department of Juvenile Justice Department of Veterans Affairs Illinois Tollway Illinois State Police Department of Central Management Services Please register in advance  Trade Ally Development Program Application is Open! TAD Program is a fully virtual, paid program for individual contractors and small business owners working in the energy efficiency trade within the natural gas industry.  TAD can help with the diverse vendor certification process with the state, marketing/social media, accounting/bookkeeping, administrative work, lead development, and more to help a contracting business grow and thrive. Many individuals who complete the TAD Program go on to become members of our Nicor Gas Contractor Circle, which allows them to be added to customer-accessible databases of preferred/recommended energy efficiency service contractors and allows them to promote other programs and offerings.  Apply here Grant opportunities Nicor’s Pillar Grants Nicor Gas’ Environmental Stewardship Pillar has an array of grant applications opening throughout the year focused on the environment, education, diversity, and more!  The Environmental Stewardship Pillar supports efforts that directly result in more customer and employee engagement in the natural environment through conservation and sustainable activities.  Visit their website to learn more about the available grants, deadlines, application requirements, and eligibility.  Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program The U.S Department of Defense launched the Future Scholars for STEM Workforce Development Program!  This grant will fund programs that improve the capacity of education systems and communities to create impactful STEM educational experiences for students and teachers and prepare the 21st century STEM workforce. Apply by June 16th!   IDOT’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure The Illinois Department of Transportation will fund up to 80% of the eligible costs associated with upgrading existing EV charging sites or establishing new sites along Alternative Fuel Corridors. This round of NEVI seeks to fully build out the corridors by funding publicly accessible EV charging stations at least 50 miles apart. More than 40 eligible locations along the corridors have been identified. Applications close at 5:00 pm on May 7th! Apply here Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 9, Palatine, IL 60067 Unsubscribe nabeela@repsyed.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by nabeela@repsyed.com powered by Try email marketing for free today!

Here’s what we’ve been up to this past month! 🌼

Time is flying by because we're having fun! This month, we heard Governor JB Pritzker's proposal for the FY25 State Budget, worked on our legislative priorities, kicked off our new District 51 Fellowship program at our Youth Advisory Council, and attended some important events in the community. Here is a look at what we've been up to for the past month in Springfield and in the district: Legislative Updates Rep. Syed visiting her colleague Rep. Anthony DeLuca near his seat on the House Floor Meeting deadlines... We are now past our bill filing deadline and working on meeting our committee hearing deadline of April 5th. Before House Bills can get voted on the House floor they have to be voted out of the committee they have been assigned to. Committees consist of legislators from both parties. Rep. Syed on the House Floor with Illinois Secretary of State, Alexi Giannoulias They listen to the sponsor's arguments, testimony from people with lived experience, and advocacy organizations. The committee members then have the chance to ask questions of the bill sponsor and decide whether they will vote to pass the legislation out of committee. Rep. Syed talking on the House Floor with neighboring Representative in the northwest suburbs, Rep. Mark Walker I passed two bills out of committee: House Bill 4804 and House Bill 4476. HB4804 is a bill that allows private water utilities to use the information they have to contact residents immediately in the case of a water disruption event. Water disruption events can pose a risk to an individual's health and safety. Residents deserve to be communicated to quickly. We believe the onus should be on water utility companies to communicate to their consumers so individuals can be fully informed about their water supply. We also passed HB4476 out of committee, a bill that would establish a public awareness campaign about the health dangers of mold toxicity. For far too long, our state has not done all that it can to prevent disruptive health outcomes for folks who experience mold toxicity. This bill also requires mold remediation services to be registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health to ensure that remediation services are performed by those who are qualified to do so. We heard incredible personal and impactful testimony from people who have experienced mold toxicity first-hand, one of whom is a constituent in the 51st. We are excited to say that this bill has passed through committee and is going to the House floor for a vote! A few more bills I'm excited to introduce to you... House Bill 5157 is in direct response to the water disruption event that occurred in parts of Hawthorn Woods and Kildeer this summer. The legislation has three parts... Requires a referendum to sell a water system to water utility company. This is so that residents can have a say before a private water utility company buys up municipal water systems Switches the cost burden of new acquisitions away from residents and onto corporations Eliminates a surcharge called "Qualified Infrastructure Projects," or QIP, so that private utilities can no longer go around the Illinois Commerce Commission rate review process. I believe that private water utilities should not be able to operate in a monopoly over water systems without the say of the people. And, they should not be allowed to use the QIP sucharge to their advantage. That's why I believe this is crucial legislation to work on this session. House Bill 5292 was brought to our attention by local stakeholders who provide private scholarships to first-generation college students. This legislation aims to ensure that financial aid received from a higher ed institution is not reduced based on earned private scholarships. Rep. Syed speaking with a colleague on the House Floor Happy Lunar New Year! Rep. Syed with members of the Illinois Asian American Legislative Caucus on the House Floor As families in the 51st District continue celebrations to honor the beginning of the Year of the Dragon, I wish everyone a prosperous and joyous lunar new year! 🐉🧧 State of the State Budget Address Last week, Governor Pritzker delivered his State of the State and Budget address, outlining the state’s proposed priorities for the upcoming year, and how far Illinois has come financially.  Passing a balanced budget that meets the needs of our communities is of the utmost importance. In recent years, we’ve cut debt, saved for the future, and restored Illinois to A-level credit – while still making smart investments in our schools, our health, and our communities. I look forward to working with my colleagues over the coming months to craft this proposal into the foundation for another year of fiscally sound growth and greater opportunities for my community and communities across Illinois. Upcoming Events We hope to see you THIS Saturday, March 9 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce Expo for a day filled with performers, food trucks, raffles, and an opportunity to connect with local businesses, community-based organizations, and local government! Our next office hours will take place on Monday, March 11 between 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Ela Area Public Library. Hope to see you there! District Highlights We officially launched the District 51 Fellow Program at our first Youth Advisory Council meeting! This initiative is an exciting educational leadership program designed to allow students to work more closely with our district office and gain civic experience. If you are a student or know of someone who would be interested in joining the program, it's not too late! Please email pooja@repsyed.com as soon as possible! It was a full house at our first YAC meeting! If you aren't able to become a District 51 Fellow, please still join us at our monthly Youth Advisory Council meetings. Our second meeting will be held on Monday, March 25 at the Palatine Public Library, Meeting Room 2 between 6 pm - 7 pm.  Click here to register for the Youth Advisory Council ED-RED Town Hall Rep. Syed and other panelist at the ED-RED Legislative Dinner I enjoyed joining school district board members and my colleagues at the ED-RED Legislative Dinner at Stevenson High School where I participated in the Legislator Town Hall on Public Education. We discussed some top priorities for this year, including school safety, the teacher workforce shortage and how to support educators and administration!  Presenting House Resolution 104 to our veterans... Last session, the House of Representatives declared March 29, 2023 to be "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" in the State of Illinois. For far too long Vietnam veterans were not given the recognition that they deserve. It was an honor to meet Guy Mylander, constituent of the 51st and Vietnam veteran to present House Resolution 104 on behalf of the House of Representatives. United Against Hate Screening of "Refuge" Panelist Panelists from left to right: Naqi Mamdani, student leader of The Children of Abraham Coalition (COAC); Representative Syed; Liza Gutierrez MA, Director of Immigrant Programs, Partners for Our Communities (POC); Ajike Sumpter, Director of Cook County Department of Human Rights & Ethics; Cook County Commissioner Scott Britton I was honored to attend the screening of “Refuge" alongside Cook County Commissioner Scott Britton. The documentary explored the unlikely friendship between a former white nationalist leader and a Muslim cardiologist. We had an incredible turnout – over 100 people joined us! I had a great time serving as a panelist and engaging in meaningful dialogue with attendees on the importance of combating hatred within our communities. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an enriching experience and look forward to continuing to support the important work of fostering stronger and more unified communities. National Day of Racial Healing at Brightpoint Rep. Syed reading a book to young children for National Day of Racial Healing on 02/14/24 Last month, I had the pleasure of meeting our cutest constituents!   I was invited by Brightpoint as a guest reader for their National Day of Racial Healing event. This day serves as a reminder that we should reflect every day on how to collectively strive for a more just and equitable world. I had fun reading books to two classrooms of children that emphasized fostering empathy, cultural appreciation, and a sense of belonging. Representation through literature plays an important role in development. When children see themselves reflected in stories across diverse genres, they feel empowered and gain a deeper understanding of their own identity and the world around them. 📚 Congratulations to Lake Zurich District 95 on a big step forward! Image of the new Young Adult Center on the day of the ribbon cutting This month, Lake Zurich District 95 School District opened its new Young Adult Center for students 18-22 years old. This is a transitional program for students with disabilities to continue their education and transition to adulthood.  A large crowd gathered on a beautiful day to celebrate! Board President Goldberg and Chief of Staff Megan Yerger at ribbon utting This brand new building is located off of Mohawk Trail near Ela Area Public Library and the Lake Zurich Police Department. Congratulations District 95, and thank you for everything you do for our students! Monthly Office Hours I had the pleasure of meeting a few of our younger constituents at office hours, who had many questions about what a State Representative does. Their curiosity and enthusiasm remind me why I love being out in the community and cherish our office hours. Rep. Syed talking with a young constituent at office hours on 02/12/24 Rep. Syed talking with a young constituent at office hours on 02/12/24 Community Events   United Palatine Coalition Wellness Resource Fair Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 20th for a FREE, fun-filled day!  The United Palatine Coalition and the Buehler YMCA are co-hosting Healthy Kids Day and the Wellness Resource Fair with exciting workshops, screenings, fitness classes, food, fun activities, and giveaways!  This is a great event to familiarize yourself with community resources and services provided by local organizations.  We hope to see you there! When: 9 AM on Saturday, April 20th  Where: Buehler YMCA, 1400 W Northwest Hwy, Palatine, IL 60067   Lake Zurich Arbor Day Park Clean Up Join us to help clean up parks in Lake Zurich! The Village of Lake Zurich is hosting its annual Arbor Day park clean up where you and your friends and family can sign up to help clean up any of the 32 parks! 🌲 The kick-off will be at Paulus Park near the Barn with a tree planting ceremony by the Village Arborist and members of the Lake Zurich Tree Commission. Then, volunteers will depart for their assigned parks to clean up. Click here to learn more and sign up. When: Saturday, April 27 starting at 9 AM. Sustainable Living Presentation Learn how to make a difference this Earth Day by joining Palatine Cool Cities, the Palatine Public Library, and Clean Up - Give Back Palatine’s Earth Day presentation to learn more about actionable ideas for sustainable living! 🌎 When: April 22nd at 7:00 PM Where: Palatine Library Main Branch, Meeting Room 1 Community Updates and Resources Local Municipalities received funding through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources's Open Spaces Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Program! The Village of Lake Zurich received a $600,000 grant to enhance Paulus Park. The money will be used to improve the splash pad, rehabilitate the shoreline, add new game tables and additional amenities. The Village of Deer Park also received a $600,000 grant to revitalize its Town Center Park, including the addition of a new pickleball court! We are excited to witness the transformations with new and improved green spaces for residents of all ages to enjoy! You can learn more at lakezurich.org/civicalerts and at https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/02/02/state-grants-park-projects-lake-county/. Financial aid opportunities ... Women Empowered Businesses The Palatine Women Empowered Businesses (WEB) is accepting applications for their Female Student Scholarship! The scholarship will be awarded to two students attending Palatine or Fremd High School.  Application deadline is March 15, 2024. Apply Here   Treasurer Charitable Fund  The Office of the Illinois State Treasurer is accepting applications for the Spring 2024 Grant Cycle. The grant is awarded to non-profit charitable programs in two categories: food and housing.   The application closes on Sunday, March 31. Palatine Historical Society Scholarship The Palatine Historical Society is now accepting applications from high school seniors for its annual Marilyn Pedersen Scholarship. Don’t miss the deadline! Applications are due by Saturday, April 6! Visit palatinehistoricalsociety.com to learn more. Tax Return Preparation Assistance  Need assistance preparing for tax season? The Palatine Public Library has you covered! They are offering FREE tax return preparation assistance at the main library from AARP tax on Mondays, from February 5 to April 15 between 1 PM - 3:30 PM.  Click here to learn more and make an appointment. If you're a resident of Ela Township, take advantage of the Ela Area Public Library's partnership with AARP as well! The library is offering FREE tax assistance until Tuesday, April 9th.  Register for an appointment by calling 224-326-0605 and find additional information on their website. State Updates and Resources New I-PASS Sticker Tags The Illinois Tollway, along with tollway agencies nationwide, is transitioning to sticker tags as an alternative to the battery-operated I-PASS transponder. Visit illinoistollway.com/about-ipass to check if your I-PASS Transponder is expiring and for more information on the sticker tags. When disposing of your expired I-PASS transponder, it's important not to throw it in the trash as the batteries are toxic. For environmentally friendly disposal options, visit https://search.earth911.com/ to find a convenient recycling location. Alternatively, you can return your expired transponder to an Illinois Tollway Customer Service location.   The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money 💰 The State Treasurer has 5 billion dollars in unclaimed property funds for Illinoisans. These funds are returned at no cost with the proper identification, but we need your help to get the money back in your hands. Click here to check if you have unclaimed property Please reply to this email if you have questions regarding your claim or the iCash program. The Illinois Department of Human Services is recruiting volunteers In September 2023, heavy rains caused flooding in several areas throughout Cook County. The Illinois Department of Human Services’ Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service is seeking volunteers to address the unique challenges that affected communities are facing.  If you are interested in volunteering, click here to learn more and to sign up. Access Pilot Program for Individuals with SNAP The Access Pilot Program grants reduced fare permits for individuals who are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties. The program runs only for 18-months, between Feb. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025! Click here to visit the website to learn more about the pilot program and apply for a permit. As always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com. With gratitude, Nabeela repnabeelasyed.org

State Representative Nabeela Syed | 830 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 9, Palatine, IL 60067 Unsubscribe nabeela@repsyed.com Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by nabeela@repsyed.com powered by Try email marketing for free today!

Hello 2024! 👋🏽

Happy 2024! ✨ I hope you had a restful and lovely holiday season with your loved ones. We kicked off the year by hosting our first office hours of the year, gearing up for the spring legislative session, and planning some exciting events. I’ll cover all of these highlights and more!

Before we dive into 2024, let’s recap 2023!

Image of a student completing the District 51 Budget worksheet

We concluded the first year of our Youth Advisory Council with a District 51 Community Budget. Students researched, advocated for, and finalized a budget to distribute $1,000 to six community based orgs!

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Image of Represenative Syed alongside advocates of the Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act

We passed the Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act! HB 3957 prohibits price gouging of generic and off-patent drugs, making prescription drugs more affordable for Illinois consumers.

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Image of Representative Syed alongside Comptroller Mendoza and Littly City Advocates holding a check

Community-based organizations and businesses were awarded more than $1,000,000 in grants!

• $433,911: Little City

• $131,858: Palatine Public Library

• $540,956: Back to Business

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We …

concluded the first year of our Youth Advisory Council with a District 51 Community Budget. Students researched, advocated for, and finalized a budget to distribute $1,000 to six community based orgs!

passed the Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act! HB 3957 prohibits price gouging of generic and off-patent drugs, making prescription drugs more affordable for Illinois consumers.

awarded community-based organizations and businesses more than $1,000,000 in grants! Including

• $433,911: Little City

• $131,858: Palatine Public Library

• $540,956: Back to Business

Our year in numbers …

130 Constituent Cases Completed

50 Events Hosted or Attended

29 House Bills Introduced



7 Bills Signed into Law

5 Committees served

1 New District Office Created

District Highlights and Upcomeing Events

For anyone hoping to visit us in person at our district office, we will be remote on Fridays until further notice. Our hours of operation are the following...

Monday-Friday 9 am - 5 pm

Available by email, phone, or in person visit Monday-Thursday

Available by email or phone on Fridays

If you would like to see our team in-person, but can't find a time that works for you, please be on the lookout for our October office hours and/or send us an email so we can find a time that works for you.

And finally, please join us on Thursday, October 12th at the Barrington Park District for a legislative update and for an opportunity to get your questions answered!

District Highlights

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We partnered with Illinois Solar Education Association for a very successful Solar Energy Town Hall!

Thank you to the Illinois Solar Education Association for partnering on an informative session about everything solar energy!

The presentation, from a District 51 constituent and volunteer, broke down common misconceptions and laid out the process of switching to solar energy for households. In our discussions, we got to talk about specific concerns that audience members have when they think about converting to solar, and what the state can do to continue to make Illinois a place where going solar can be financially beneficial.

Thank you to all who were able to attend! Our Livestream is now posted on Facebook for those who missed it. And, catch the feature about the event from the Daily Herald! You can read the article here.

Constituents from across the district listen to a presentation on Solar Energy 09/19/23

Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce State of the State Breakfast was a success!

I got to sit down with State Senator Dan McConchie and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky to answer some questions about how we can support small businesses in our districts. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

The LZACC saw a full room of constituents at the Ela Area Public Library 09/22/23

Additional image of the legislators participating in the panel discussion 09/22/23

At the legislative breakfast, I got to share some good news for small businesses in the 51st!

Make it stand out

It was exciting to be a part of rolling out this grant opportunity, aimed at helping businesses that are still seeing the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have a small business and need support navigating resources, do not hesitate to reach out to our district office.

I also joined many of my colleagues for a panel discussion presented by the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce

It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and hear from community members what issues matter most to them.

We had a wonderful tour of Harper College with Dr. Proctor

Dr. Proctor and Rep Syed on Harper College's Campus

Thank you to Dr. Proctor, who led us through the cultural and health center, and taught us about some of the many programs that Harper has to offer.

And, thank you to all the Harper College faculty and staff who work tirelessly to provide our community with education and opportunities.

We welcomed the Henry County Farmers to the 51st District!

It was an honor to host Henry County Farmers in our district through the Adopt-a-Legislator program.

The program headed by The Illinois Farm Bureau aims to educate legislators about the state’s largest industry: agriculture! 🧑‍🌾 The goal is to educate members on the needs and concerns of rural and urban districts.

We visited the Palatine and Ela Historical Society to learn more about the history of our district. Afterwards, we headed over to the Hawthorn Woods Country Club for lunch, and a big thank you to Donna, the Village’s Chief Administrative Officer, who educated us about Hawthorn Woods.

I am grateful that people are committed to preserving the history of towns so we can get a glimpse of the past and learn about how much we have changed.

Congrats are in order...

To Nathan, who achieved the honor of the Eagle Scout Rank!

To Nathan, who achieved the honor of the Eagle Scout Rank!

—Nathan and Rep Syed at Nathan's Eagle Scout Court of Honor

And to Adlai E. Stephenson High School. They ranked 9th in the entire country for their public education!

—Rep Syed and Rep Didech presenting a certificate of congratulations to the School Board of Stevenson High School

From the Community

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Do you have lead pipes?

If you aren't sure, you can find out using this map. Visit the Palatine Public Works Water Division website to learn about grants that might benefit you through the Village of Palatine.

Join the community for a 5k to honor our local firefighters. Use the QR code to register!

Learn more about Harper Experience Day by visiting their website or scanning the QR code!

Elderworks October Food Drive

From the State 🏛️

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Attn: Educators seeking field trip opportunities!

The Field Museum offers all Illinois school groups FREE admission to the museum with pre-registration! We hope this can be a resource for anyone seeking field trip educational opportunities for their students.

Learn more by visiting www.fieldmuseum.org/field-trips

IDHS launched a new Grants Administration Page

This page is meant to serve as a “one-stop shop” for all things grants-related. It includes the following resources:

• Centralized resource for all available funding opportunities

• Step-by-step instructions on how to get pre-qualified and how to request additional assistance (presentation, recording)

• Grant application requirements and resources to complete them

• Pre-award requirements/information (Internal Controls Questionnaire)

• Post-award information/resources for establishing/complying with requirements (presentations/recordings/summaries)

• Interactive Learning Management System to provide additional grant application/management training (how to build a budget, post-award requirements)

• Additional tips and resources for the grant application process
  

This is what the page looks like:

The Treasurer's Office launches Illinois First Steps Program: $50 to help Illinois parents start saving for college

Treasurer Frerichs announced the launch of Illinois First Steps, the Illinois Children's Savings Account (CSA) Program designed to jump start college savings for new parents. This program, which was approved by the General Assembly in 2019 and funded in 2023, provides a $50 seed deposit to all Illinois parents with a child born or adopted on or after January 1, 2023.

To qualify for the $50 seed deposit, parents or legal guardians must be Illinois residents at the time of birth or adoption, the child must be born or adopted on or after Jan. 1, 2023, and the parent must open an Illinois Bright Start or Bright Directions 529 College Savings Account to claim the seed deposit before the child's 10th birthday. 

Two new seniors only DMV centers are coming to the northwest suburbs

The new Skip-the-Line system that the Secretary of State's office implemented earlier this month has posed a few barriers to seniors. In light of this issue, the Secretary of State’s office launched two ‘Senior Only’ walk-in centers located in Evanston and Bridgeview! 

The two facilities accept appointments, however, their goal is to prioritize walk-in services for seniors without impacting those with an existing appointment. This allows a barrier to be alleviated for seniors who may be facing issues creating appointments online when seeking DMV services.

That was a lot! Thank you for reading all the way through. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com.

With gratitude,

Nabeela

District office update (this one’s a long one!)

Summer is officially over, and before it gets too cold, I hope you're enjoying the nice fall weather as much as I am!

Before I get into some resources and upcoming community events, I want to share with you an important legislative update regarding the Aqua Illinois water disruption that occurred earlier this summer in portions of our district and invite you to a great event we're hosting with the Secretary of State's office.

We've had an exciting past couple of months, and we're looking forward to more progress as we round the corner to my first veto session coming up in October.

We filed HB4144 as a direct response to the Aqua Illinois water disruption crisis

Image of Daily Herald Article written about the filing of HB4144

Read the full article here.

We're partnering with the Secretary of State's Office to expand access to DMV services THIS Saturday!

Have you been putting off getting your Real ID? Do you need to renew your license? Or get a vehicle registration sticker? Please JOIN US at the Foglia YMCA on Saturday, September 30th from 10am to 2pm to get easy access to some DMV services. Check the list above for full services. Registration is strongly encouraged, and you can register at repnabeelasyed.org/mobileDMVreg.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to our Outreach Director, Pooja Rai, at pooja@repsyed.com if you have any questions or need assistance with registration.

District Office Hours Update

For anyone hoping to visit us in person at our district office, we will be remote on Fridays until further notice. Our hours of operation are the following...

Monday-Friday 9 am - 5 pm

Available by email, phone, or in person visit Monday-Thursday

Available by email or phone on Fridays

If you would like to see our team in-person, but can't find a time that works for you, please be on the lookout for our October office hours and/or send us an email so we can find a time that works for you.

And finally, please join us on Thursday, October 12th at the Barrington Park District for a legislative update and for an opportunity to get your questions answered!

District Highlights

---

We partnered with Illinois Solar Education Association for a very successful Solar Energy Town Hall!

Thank you to the Illinois Solar Education Association for partnering on an informative session about everything solar energy!

The presentation, from a District 51 constituent and volunteer, broke down common misconceptions and laid out the process of switching to solar energy for households. In our discussions, we got to talk about specific concerns that audience members have when they think about converting to solar, and what the state can do to continue to make Illinois a place where going solar can be financially beneficial.

Thank you to all who were able to attend! Our Livestream is now posted on Facebook for those who missed it. And, catch the feature about the event from the Daily Herald! You can read the article here.

Constituents from across the district listen to a presentation on Solar Energy 09/19/23

Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce State of the State Breakfast was a success!

I got to sit down with State Senator Dan McConchie and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky to answer some questions about how we can support small businesses in our districts. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

The LZACC saw a full room of constituents at the Ela Area Public Library 09/22/23

Additional image of the legislators participating in the panel discussion 09/22/23

At the legislative breakfast, I got to share some good news for small businesses in the 51st!

Make it stand out

It was exciting to be a part of rolling out this grant opportunity, aimed at helping businesses that are still seeing the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have a small business and need support navigating resources, do not hesitate to reach out to our district office.

I also joined many of my colleagues for a panel discussion presented by the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce

It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and hear from community members what issues matter most to them.

We had a wonderful tour of Harper College with Dr. Proctor

Dr. Proctor and Rep Syed on Harper College's Campus

Thank you to Dr. Proctor, who led us through the cultural and health center, and taught us about some of the many programs that Harper has to offer.

And, thank you to all the Harper College faculty and staff who work tirelessly to provide our community with education and opportunities.

We welcomed the Henry County Farmers to the 51st District!

It was an honor to host Henry County Farmers in our district through the Adopt-a-Legislator program.

The program headed by The Illinois Farm Bureau aims to educate legislators about the state’s largest industry: agriculture! 🧑‍🌾 The goal is to educate members on the needs and concerns of rural and urban districts.

We visited the Palatine and Ela Historical Society to learn more about the history of our district. Afterwards, we headed over to the Hawthorn Woods Country Club for lunch, and a big thank you to Donna, the Village’s Chief Administrative Officer, who educated us about Hawthorn Woods.

I am grateful that people are committed to preserving the history of towns so we can get a glimpse of the past and learn about how much we have changed.

Congrats are in order...

To Nathan, who achieved the honor of the Eagle Scout Rank!

To Nathan, who achieved the honor of the Eagle Scout Rank!

—Nathan and Rep Syed at Nathan's Eagle Scout Court of Honor

And to Adlai E. Stephenson High School. They ranked 9th in the entire country for their public education!

—Rep Syed and Rep Didech presenting a certificate of congratulations to the School Board of Stevenson High School

From the Community

---

Do you have lead pipes?

If you aren't sure, you can find out using this map. Visit the Palatine Public Works Water Division website to learn about grants that might benefit you through the Village of Palatine.

Join the community for a 5k to honor our local firefighters. Use the QR code to register!

Learn more about Harper Experience Day by visiting their website or scanning the QR code!

Elderworks October Food Drive

From the State 🏛️

---

Attn: Educators seeking field trip opportunities!

The Field Museum offers all Illinois school groups FREE admission to the museum with pre-registration! We hope this can be a resource for anyone seeking field trip educational opportunities for their students.

Learn more by visiting www.fieldmuseum.org/field-trips

IDHS launched a new Grants Administration Page

This page is meant to serve as a “one-stop shop” for all things grants-related. It includes the following resources:

• Centralized resource for all available funding opportunities

• Step-by-step instructions on how to get pre-qualified and how to request additional assistance (presentation, recording)

• Grant application requirements and resources to complete them

• Pre-award requirements/information (Internal Controls Questionnaire)

• Post-award information/resources for establishing/complying with requirements (presentations/recordings/summaries)

• Interactive Learning Management System to provide additional grant application/management training (how to build a budget, post-award requirements)

• Additional tips and resources for the grant application process
  

This is what the page looks like:

The Treasurer's Office launches Illinois First Steps Program: $50 to help Illinois parents start saving for college

Treasurer Frerichs announced the launch of Illinois First Steps, the Illinois Children's Savings Account (CSA) Program designed to jump start college savings for new parents. This program, which was approved by the General Assembly in 2019 and funded in 2023, provides a $50 seed deposit to all Illinois parents with a child born or adopted on or after January 1, 2023.

To qualify for the $50 seed deposit, parents or legal guardians must be Illinois residents at the time of birth or adoption, the child must be born or adopted on or after Jan. 1, 2023, and the parent must open an Illinois Bright Start or Bright Directions 529 College Savings Account to claim the seed deposit before the child's 10th birthday. 

Two new seniors only DMV centers are coming to the northwest suburbs

The new Skip-the-Line system that the Secretary of State's office implemented earlier this month has posed a few barriers to seniors. In light of this issue, the Secretary of State’s office launched two ‘Senior Only’ walk-in centers located in Evanston and Bridgeview! 

The two facilities accept appointments, however, their goal is to prioritize walk-in services for seniors without impacting those with an existing appointment. This allows a barrier to be alleviated for seniors who may be facing issues creating appointments online when seeking DMV services.

That was a lot! Thank you for reading all the way through. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com.

With gratitude,

Nabeela

District Office Update!

Hi friend,

I hope everyone is staying cool and dry! I am excited to share with you some legislative updates, which are really a culmination of our efforts during session in the spring. Meanwhile, in the district office we welcomed two new interns, have been holding meetings with stakeholders in preparation for the 2024 legislative session, and are spending a lot of time getting to know what's going on in the district. I hope you enjoy some of my highlights from the past month, and that you're able to join the community in some upcoming events!

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Exciting Legislative Updates📜 

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HB3957, Illinois Drug Pricing Fairness Act Becomes Law

For folks who were reading my legislative updates up to this point, you may know passing this bill was an important one for this district. It didn't come easy, but we've finally crossed the finish line as Governor Pritzker signed HB3957 into law on Friday.

Modern medical science has the capacity to help so many people overcome health problems that previously would have taken over their lives. In the endless pursuit of greater profits, pharmaceutical companies have comfortably stifled that capacity for years. As long as I represent this district in Springfield, making vital prescriptions easier to afford will be a priority.

I am so proud that I get to bring home a piece of legislation that I know will directly support folks that I've talked to in our district. This is only the beginning of my pursuit to make prescription drugs affordable.

HB2624, SB2337, and SB2419 Also Join Illinois Statute

The Court Term Accessibility Act, the License to Read Act, and the Gifted/AP Reporting bill were my very first bills that got signed into law!

Rep Syed taking a meeting in Springfield during session

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District 51 Highlights from July

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Youth Advisory Council Coming to a Close (for now!)

— Rep Syed and the YAC

In our last YAC meeting, our acting legislators met a strict deadline and passed a budget for the 51st District.

For the past few months, students in our Youth Advisory Council have been advocating for different community-based organizations that they are passionate about. After an hour of debating, $1,000 was distributed between six CBOs that have a direct impact on the district.

Acting Legislator Drawing Budget Plans—

I am so proud that we have such bright and passionate young minds who show up for causes they care about. We look forward to a celebratory last meeting (for now) in August.

Presenting a Certificate to our Retiring Firefighters

Rep Syed and retiring firefighter Robert "Bob" Kleinheinz 7/14/23

Robert “Bob” Kleinheinz is retiring from Lake Zurich's Fire Prevention Bureau after giving over 42 years of fire service dedication to the residents of the State of Illinois. Bob served in the Libertyville Fire Department for 30 years, the National Fire Sprinkler Association for a couple, and rounded out his career with the Lake Zurich Fire Department for the last ten years. Thank you, Bob, for your invaluable service.

We also send our deepest congratulations and appreciation to Ken Mogge, Eric Ryan, and Mike Wiltgen who have each served with the Lake Zurich Fire Department for 30 years as firefighters and paramedics.

They will all leave a lasting legacy of hard work and a legacy of a "whatever it takes" attitude to get the job done. Thank you for keeping our community safe!

All Saints Mobile Food Pantry

Volunteers of the All Saints mobile food pantry 7/11/23

We got a chance to see firsthand how the All Saints Food Pantry is making food available and accessible to our community. We were glad to join them to serve over 170 families in the community on July 11. They hold mobile pantries twice a week, every week, to ensure they meet community needs directly where they're at.

We look forward to celebrating their 100th mobile food pantry with them later in August!

Palatine Township Back to School Drive

—Rep Syed talking with students about our office and handing out stickers 7/20/23

Palatine Township hosted an amazing back-to-school supply pick-up for two days this July.

Donated Materials stocked and ready for families to receive—

Families came to receive their backpacks and school supplies, talk to community organizations to get more resources, and get haircuts and nails done before school starts!

A Very Proud Alum: Go Vikes!

Rep Syed and Fremd Principal, Mark Langer 07/19/23

Recently, Fremd High School joined 9 other high schools in Illinois that ranked in the top 50 public high schools nationally. As a proud alum, I was honored to visit Fremd to present a certificate of accomplishment from the House of Representatives for providing an outstanding education to so many students in the 51st District.

My former educators not only taught me the skills I need to accomplish what I set my mind to, but they also taught me what it means to be believed in and empowered. Investing in and supporting our youth is what will continue to set Illinois apart and make innovative leaders. 

A Welcome Back to the US and a Senior Yoga Class

Pashmeena, our instructor and a District 51 constituent, led the senior yoga class we put on earlier this month in partnership with Elderworks. This was Pashmeena’s first yoga class back in the United States and we had a great time getting to know some active seniors in our district!

Celebrating Beginnings...

Breaking ground for a new Pace transportation facility in Schaumburg 7/19/23

Wallace Academy Ribbon Cutting 7/17/23

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District 51 Upcoming Events

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Join us at Unplugged Fest!

Unplug from your devices and plug into your community 🔌

Join us at Unplugged Fest on Sunday, August 6th from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at Paulus Park in Lake Zurich to reconnect with neighbors and community organizations in a no-phone zone.

Better Together Back to School Resource Fair

Partners for our Communities (POC) is hosting a community resource fair on Tuesday, August 8th at Falcon Park in Palatine where residents can pick up backpacks prepared with supplies and learn about what services exist through local organizations.

POC is still looking for donors for the following supplies:

🖍️ 350 crayons

📓 300 spiral notebooks

✏️ 250 colored pencils.

If you are able to donate supplies, please drop them at the Community Resource Center located at 1585 Rand Road, Palatine.

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From the Community

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Greener Good is a community-based organization in Palatine that collects, organizes, and creativly redistributes reusable materials. They are holding a supply drive for teachers! 🍎

Visit their website at greener-good.org if you would like to participate as an educator, volunteer, or donor/sponsor. Move quickly, because the action is happening this week! 📚

BACOG's Annual Private Well Water Testing Event

Households with private wells are advised to test for bacteria and nitrates on an annual basis to detect invisible, odorless contaminants. Bacteria and nitrates can result from animal, insect or human waste or fertilizers reaching the well water and can cause illness in humans. This is event is an opportunity to test your water to ensure it does not contain any of these contaminants.

Purchase water testing kits from October 2 - 10 at the following Village/Township Offices during regular business hours.

Participating Village/Townships:

-BACOG Office
-Barrington Hills Village Hall
-Barrington Township Office
-Deer Park Village Hall
-Lake Barrington Village Hall
-South Barrington Village Hall
-Tower Lakes Village Hall

Then, drop off your water sample kits on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 11:00am - 6:30pm at The Barrington Area Library.

Several Community Partners will be there with information and takeaways, including the Lake County Health Department Staff, who will be available to residents for water testing questions.

Join the Elderwerks’s Expo on Wednesday, August 9th at the Stonegate Banquet and Conference Center in Hoffman Estates.  

There will be free classes and local community groups will be present to talk about how their services may be helpful to you. This is a great expo for folks who are interested in planning retirement for themselves or for a family member.

Birth to Five Action Councils

Birth to Five is an organization that works throughout the State to make early education affordable and accessible. If you're interested in getting involved, consider joining one of the action councils.

Learn more about Birth to Five by visiting their website.

Disability Lead is recruiting positive disruptors. If you're a person with a disability and are interested in being a future leader, learn more and apply on their website: DisabilityLead.org/apply.

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From the State 🏛️

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— Grant Opportunities —

Small Businesses

Learn more about the Cook County Small Business Source Grant on their website here.

Workforce Development

Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program (Website)

Community-based organizations can apply to receive grants to set up programs that will provide women, veterans, and people of color with pre-apprenticeship training.

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will be hosting webinars to answer questions and help organizations that are interested in applying. Register Here.

Individuals considering enrollment in pre-apprenticeship training should fill out the interest form here.

Illinois Clean Jobs Workforce Network Program or “CEJA Workforce Hubs” (Website)

The CEJA Workforce Hubs will align with the needs of clean energy employers and provide students with nationally recognized certifications. The hubs will be located in Alton, Aurora, Carbondale, Champaign, Chicago (South Side), Chicago (Southwest and West Sides), Danville, Decatur, East St. Louis, Joliet, Peoria, Rockford and Waukegan. 

Federal Support Grant Program

Allows businesses and organizations seeking federal grants to submit an application with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to have part of their match covered by state dollars. Learn more and apply here.

New GATA help desk through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

This is aimed to help nonprofits and local governments with GATA pre-qualification and audit issues.

Email CEO.GrantHelp@illinois.gov with your inquiry and, if possible, your GATA ID. 

More grants can be found on the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Website: dceo.illinois.gov.

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— A Change to DMV Operations —

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias will implement the Skip-the-Line program on September 1, 2023. 

Appointments

All Chicago and suburban locations and select central and downstate DMVs will require an appointment for REAL IDs, driver’s licenses and ID card services, and in-car driving tests.

These DMVs will continue to NOT require appointments for vehicle-related services (titles, registrations or license plate renewals.)

Extending Hours

SoS is also extending hours of operation:
-Select facilities will be open six days a week – Monday through Saturday 
-All DMVs will have hours of operation from Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 
-16 DMVs will be open on Saturday, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

You can visit ilsos.gov or call (844) 817-4649 to schedule an appointment, find location information, and take advantage of many online services, including renewals of driver’s licenses, ID cards, and plate stickers which may not require an in-person visit.

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— Pause of Student Loan Payment ENDS in September —

Interest rates on all federal student loans will start accruing on September 1 with payments starting October 1.

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and the University of Illinois system are providing free webinars focused on return to repayment. If you're interested, please register here: https://go.uillinois.edu/repay.

— Medicaid Renewals Continue —

Did you know?

You can check your Medicaid renewal date by phone just like SNAP card benefits by calling 1(800) 843-6154.

You will need to know your RIN (Recipient Identification Number). This number can be found on your HFS medical card or Managed Care Plan insurance card. This number is unique to you, and it can also be found in Manage My Case.  

Visit the IDHFS website for more FAQs.

Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our office number is (773) 916-6553 and our email is info@repsyed.com.

With gratitude,
Nabeela