Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus released the following statement in response to the recent allegations of sexual assault and abuse involving the late Cesar Chavez:

“We are deeply disturbed by the allegations of sexual assault and abuse against Cesar Chavez, as brought forward by Dolores Huerta, Debra Rojas and Ana Murguia. The accounts described are appalling. The patterns of coercion and manipulation used against women and girls over many years are unacceptable and deeply troubling. Dismantling this culture of abuse against women is exactly the work we are committed to doing every day. Our message is clear: there is no place in this movement for the abuse, exploitation, or coercion of power.

“These actions do not reflect our values. The core principles of the Latino community are rooted in respect, dignity, justice, advocacy, and conducting ourselves in a manner that honors those who came before us. It is our responsibility to confront the truth and hold individuals accountable.

“Despite these allegations, we continue to honor the labor of farmworkers and the dignity and rights for which they organized. The progress achieved has been collective, built over decades by countless individuals through determination, grit, selflessness and leadership. These values continue to guide many leaders and movements today.

“Our commitment to these movements remains steadfast. That includes protecting women and children, advocating for workers, advancing safer communities, and ensuring that our voices are heard.

“Today and always, we believe survivors and stand with them in our commitment to justice.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes is leading a measure to prohibit cities and municipalities from regulating residential energy backup systems’ installation and inspection.

“This measure comes back to consumer protections,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “It is about saving people money and simplifying the installation process for residential batteries.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by health care providers, students, patients and the Illinois Academy of Physician Associates for a press conference on a new law that would modernize PA practice laws, improving health care access across the state.

“Last year, I was proud to sponsor legislation to begin the journey to allow physician assistants to practice to their full potential,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This year’s Senate Bill 3421 is critical as we face an access to health care crisis in Illinois.”

With similar training as nurses and doctors, PAs can provide high-quality health care, but have run into difficulties getting their license approved due to a long, tedious paperwork approval process. Senate Bill 3421 would remove outdated practice barriers for PAs, allowing them to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. The legislation allows PAs to obtain a license to prescribe and administer certain controlled substances without a written agreement from a doctor, as nurses are currently able to do.

“This legislation is vital because our healthcare system continues to face increasing strain. Recognizing and empowering PAs in our communities will make a significant impact,” said Timothy Kinsey, a PA in emergency medicine and executive director of IAPA. “They are highly trained professionals who can serve as the first line of defense against serious health issues.”

This legislation is crucial as it aligns with the growing demand for health care services while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

“Many communities, including my own, are experiencing medical deserts, and PAs are a vital part of the solution,” said Cervantes. “The federal government has initiated a Rural Health Transformation initiative, and Illinois risks leaving tens of millions of dollars on the table if we do not modernize our PA practice laws. The time to act is now.”

Senate Bill 3421 awaits assignment to a legislative committee.

BERWYN – The federal administration – through the Federal Emergency Management Agency — has officially denied the state’s appeal for a major disaster declaration following severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding that impacted multiple counties from Aug. 16–19, 2025, including large portions of the district Cervantes represents.

“I am disappointed and angry at this administration’s decision to deny a disaster declaration for the hundreds of families who not only lost furniture and stoves, but memories and precious moments that money cannot buy back,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “Last summer’s storms wreaked absolute havoc in my community. The damage they caused qualifies as a disaster, and this administration’s refusal to acknowledge that demonstrates how little they value my community.”