Preston commends FDA ban on red dye No.3

CHICAGO – Following the recent announcement of the Food and Drug Administration banning red dye No.3, State Senator Willie Preston announced his support for the decision and highlighted his efforts to remove the dye that has been linked to dangerous health issues.

“This decision made by the FDA echoes the work I put forth under the Illinois Food Safety Act. By banning this dye, we are sending a clear message that we will put Americans’ health first – this dangerous substance must be taken out of our food,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “I commend the efforts of the advocates and medical experts who fought for the ban and will continue to advocate and educate Illinoisans about the dangers of these additives.”

Read more …

Preston sworn in to 104th General Assembly

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago) was sworn in for a new term representing Illinois’ 16^th Senate District in the 104^th General Assembly. He released the following statement:

“I am deeply humbled that the people of the 16^th District would grant me the privilege of serving them for another term. I will not miss a beat as the new session begins. We are moving full steam ahead in the fight for equitable health care, expanding education and bringing financial support to our district.

As newly elected Senate Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, I will fight to ensure every Black family in state has the tools they need to thrive. Our work is just getting started – and I am thankful for the people of the 16^th District for putting their trust in me to continue the good fight.”

Preston works to strengthen collective bargaining process for CPS principals

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston led legislation through the Senate that would facilitate neutral, good-faith contract negotiations between Chicago Public Schools principals and the Chicago Board of Education when an agreement can’t be reached – without the need for strikes or lockouts that could disrupt students’ education.

“Labor agreements should happen as the result of true, good-faith negotiations,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This plan lays out a fair framework to allow principals in our state’s largest school district to enjoy the same right to a fair bargaining process as other public employees.”

Read more …

Preston named Senate Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus

SPRINGFIELD – At a meeting of the Illinois Senate Black Caucus earlier this week, State Senator Willie Preston was elected by his colleagues as the new caucus chair.
"I am deeply humbled and grateful to my colleagues for entrusting me with the honor of serving as Senate Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This is an extraordinary responsibility, and I do not take it lightly. Together, we stand on the shoulders of the trailblazers who came before us, and it is our duty to continue fighting for the progress Black communities deserve.”

The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus advocates on behalf of the Black community, ensures inclusion and diversity within legislation, and works diligently to improve the health and social outcomes for Black Illinoisans.

“As chair, my focus will be ensuring that every Black family in Illinois has the tools they need to thrive,” said Preston. “We must continue the work of building a strong and inclusive middle class where families have access to good-paying jobs that provide dignity and stability.”

Preston intends to use his position to address and find solutions to the systemic inequalities continuing to face Black Americans daily.

“Every child, regardless of their ZIP code, deserves access to a high-quality education that prepares them for a bright future. We must confront the inequities in our healthcare system, ensuring that Black Illinoisans can access affordable, comprehensive care, and we must work tirelessly to make our neighborhoods safe and vibrant places to live and grow,” said Preston. “From expanding access to trade schools to fostering economic opportunities for minority-owned businesses, I am committed to advancing policies that address the systemic barriers Black Illinoisans face and championing initiatives that create a fairer, more just state for all.”

Preston will serve as chair during the transition into the 104th General Assembly, which is scheduled to be inaugurated on Jan. 8, 2025.