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Happy May!
April flew by with committee work wrapping up and balancing my time between Springfield and the district. As the legislative session enters its final stretch, things are ramping up in the Capitol, and I'm excited to keep you updated on our work.
Keep reading to revisit April's highlights and see what’s ahead as we move toward summer and warmer weather.
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Snapshot of the newsletter:
🏛️ What's Happening in Springfield
🎥 Behind-the-Scenes Vlogs
🎓 Upcoming Youth Fair
🤝 Community Events & Activities
💡 Helpful Resources
| | April was a busy month at the Capitol, and we've made solid progress on a couple of bills that directly impact our community. | | Banning Rental Junk Fees (HB 3564) | | |
HB 3564 passed through both the House and Senate! It now awaits the Governor's signature. This bill caps application fees, bans a range of junk charges, and requires transparency of all non-optional fees on the first page of a lease.
HB 3564 is the necessary legislation to bring fairness and transparency in a time of limited housing supply, should it become law. Thank you to all the stakeholders who helped craft this legislation.
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Lowering Prescription Drug Costs
(HB 1443)
| | I am also continuing to work on legislation regarding prescription drug affordability. We had our very first hearing on HB 1443, and since then we have continued to refine our bill. We have worked hard to incorporate stakeholder feedback while keeping our focus on the main goal: lowering prescription drug costs. I'm grateful for every advocate who has shown up alongside us and I'm hopeful this is one the last stops before it is sent to the House floor for a vote. | |
Digital Library Protection Act
(HB 5236)
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Libraries are the heart of our communities. Our libraries provide critical resources and services for all ages.
I’m proud of the work we’ve done in Springfield to stand up for libraries, especially in light of the attacks they are experiencing at the federal level. In my first year in office, I passed the License to Read Act, which empowers the State Librarian to pool libraries’ buying power and negotiate reasonable licensing terms with publishers for e-books and e-audiobooks, expanding digital content access for patrons across Illinois. I’ve also fought to support critical investments and grants for public libraries across our state.
This session, I’m proud to be Chief Co-Sponsor of HB 5236, the Digital Library Protection Act. Right now, publishers charge libraries nearly four times the consumer price for e-books, and those licenses expire so libraries are forced to repurchase the same content year after year. HB 5236 helps give libraries fair contract protections so they can negotiate on a level playing field and do more with taxpayer dollars.
| | Behind the Scenes: Session Vlogs | | Throughout these debates, I've been sharing a behind-the-scenes look at our work with some short session vlogs on Instagram, From long committee hearings to big wins on the House Floor, these videos capture the energy and momentum of the session and showcase the teamwork it takes to get good policy passed. You can find the latest clips on my Instagram below. Make sure to drop a follow for regular updates from Springfield! | | As the spring sessions approaches its conclusion at the end of this month, I'm grateful for everyone who has advocated alongside us and helped shape these bills. I'll keep you updated as they continue to move through the legislative process and become law. | | |
With session in the latter half of the month we decided to have our office hours early this time! I had a great time connecting once again with constituents and answering all their questions. Thank you to everyone who came by, as always until next time!
As a reminder every month our office holds office hours at the Palatine and Ela Public Libraries. If you have a question about state services (or just want to stop by and say hello!), join our next office hours on Tuesday, June 23rd!
| | Youth Advisory Council and Fellowship | | |
Our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) continues to be an incredible and informative space. This month, students debated HB 1155, a bill that would require the University of Illinois System to divest its endowment funds from fossil fuel companies and adopt updated investment policies. They brought their A-game, diving into a thoughtful discussion about climate policy, institutional responsibility, financial risk and long-term impact of investment decisions. It was inspiring to see them engage with such a nuanced issue and explore different perspectives like true policymakers.
We're looking forward to our next meeting on Monday, May 18th at 5 PM, where we'll kick off the Community Budget Project. High school students are encouraged to join and have their voices heard!
| | Representative Syed's Youth Fair | | |
We are excited to announce our Youth Fair: for the youth, by the youth!
The Youth Fair will highlight youth-led organizations and community groups offering opportunities for students to get involved, build skills, and connect with resources in our community. There will also be snacks and workshops focused on workforce development, health, and more.
This event is for high school aged students.
Event details:
Monday, June 1
4:00 – 7:00 PM
Ela Public Library, Lake Zurich, Meeting Rooms A+B.
Be sure to register and we hope to see you there!
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With spring winding down and summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore our museum pass program! Residents of the 51st District can borrow a pass that grants complimentary general admission to participating museums for you and up to three guests!
It's a fun and affordable way to spend time with friends or family, discover new exhibits, and learn something new. Please complete the form (linked below) at least 5 days in advance and our team will send your authorization letter!
| | Ribbon Cuttings Around the District | | |
This month had some ground-breaking ribbon cuttings across the district, and I was delighted to celebrate with our community.
First, we marked the grand opening of the brand-new Emergency Services Training Center at Harper College alongside local and state elected officials, fire marshals, faculty, students and community supporters. Our office is proud to have supported Harper’s capital project, which was included in the FY 2026 budget, helping make this state-of-the-art training center a reality. My team had the opportunity to tour the four-story facility and witness live demonstrations of fires, smoke and other real-world scenarios. This incredible space will give current and future first responders the hands-on training they need to serve and protect our communities.
| I joined Greater Family Health for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating their recent expansion in Palatine. I learned more about the vital services they provide, the health needs of our community and the dedication of their providers. This expansion will significantly increase their capacity to serve more patients across Palatine and the surrounding communities, ensuring that quality, affordable health care remains accessible to all, regardless of ability to pay. | | I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these spaces with so many wonderful people, Celebrating these milestones has been both rewarding and energizing, and I’m excited to turn now to some of the fun events we enjoyed throughout the district. | | |
Our Office kicked off the month in Lake Zurich. We had a blast at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce Everything EXPO at the Foglia YMCA. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to chat and learn more about the resources our office provide! | | |
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I also has a wonderful morning celebrating the trees that make Lake Zurich so special! I went to the Village of Lake Zurich's Annual Arbor Day event this morning to celebrate Arbor Day and see the Tree-Planting Ceremony at Paulus Park with the Lake Zurich Tree Commission!
I was glad to join Trustee Weider, Trustee Marx, Scott Garrison, and the Lake Zurich community for this wonderful event
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Buehler YMCA Healthy Kids Day | |
Every year, our office has such a wonderful time connecting with the community at the Buehler YMCA for Healthy Kids Day and the United Palatine Coalition Wellness Resource Fair! It's also a great opportunity for our office to learn more about the resources and organizations that our community has to offer.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by!
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Illinois Early Childhood Block Grant | And last but not least, I had such a wonderful time visiting my former elementary school to learn about Illinois's Early Childhood Block Grant and what it does for children and families in our communities. I got to stick around for play time, read a book to the kids, and even see how they learn emotional regulation at such a young age. | | As a member of the Child Care Access & Early Childhood Committee, it is critical that I understand how line items in the budget are directly impacting the people we serve, and seeing it in action was incredibly rewarding. | | |
The grant has three key components: Preschool for All provides free, high-quality preschool to 3 and 4 year olds, making sure every child has access to early education regardless of income or zip code. Preschool for All Expansion takes it a step further by targeting high-need communities with full school days and wraparound services. The Prevention Initiative focuses on the earliest years, serving expecting parents and families with children from birth to age 3 who are at risk. It brings support directly to families through home visits, screenings, and personalized family planning, because the work of setting kids up for success starts long before preschool.
Thank you as always to all the organizations above for including me in their tireless work advocating for the various needs in our community and across the state!
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Community Updates and Resources | | | | Carl C. Bell Essay Competition | |
Where do I find Community Events? 🗓️
| | Brightpoint Summer Block Party | | UPC Community Listening Session | |
State, County and Federal
Updates and Resources
| | | | Important Changes to SNAP Benefits | The federal government passed a new law that makes significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as Link in Illinois. Follow these steps so you don't lose your food and grocery benefits!
1) Update your information: Report any changes in your income or changes to your household to the Illinois Department of Human Services.
2) Review work requirements: Find out if you need to be connected to a job, volunteer opportunity or education & training program for at least 80 hours per month. If you qualify for an exemption, apply for one!
3) Stay informed!: Get the latest updates and share this information with family and friends.
Need support? Visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository to get help managing your benefits or to sign up for SNAP today. |
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.
If you need assistance, apply soon!
| | The Illinois Accountability Commission has launched a portal where residents can report ICE misconduct during 'Operation Midway Blitz'.
If you experienced or witnessed misconduct by federal agents between September 2025 and the end of 2025, use the link to share your account or video evidence with the Illinois Accountability Commission. | | 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!
| | Senior Freeze Exemption Update | | |
Important news for senior homeowners from me and Ela Township Assessor Bonnie Barrington! 🏡
The Senior Freeze Exemption income limit is increasing from $65,000 to $75,000 in taxable year 2026, then $77,000 in 2027 and $79,000 in 2028.
Under current law, senior homeowners with a household income of $65,000 or less qualify for the exemption, which helps provide property tax savings by freezing the equalized assessed value of their home.
We have heard from many seniors who lost eligibility after modest increases in Social Security pushed them just over the income limit. This bill helps alleviate that issue. For questions about eligibility or how to apply, contact your local township assessor or reach out to our office at
Staying informed can help ensure you receive the benefits you qualify for.
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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.
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iCash:
The State of Illinois May Owe YOU Money
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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!
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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. 💰
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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.
| | Illinois Housing Bluepring | | 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. | | |
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
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