MPC State Policy Agenda

Illinois is at an inflection point: As the state continues to lose population—in particular Black and Brown residents—while weathering ongoing and pandemic-related fiscal instability, positive signals during the early-January “lame duck” session of the Illinois General Assembly indicated that state lawmakers are ready to roll up their sleeves in Springfield this spring. The election of Ill. Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch as the first Black Speaker of the House, and sweeping criminal justice reforms passed during the lame duck represent new opportunities for the independent Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) to work with all parties and both Chambers.  

In areas ranging from transportation and water to housing and economic growth, MPC will be advocating for change that improves equity for residents of color, and ultimately builds a better, bolder, more equitable future for all Illinois residents—and we invite you to join us in learning how you can support these efforts.

Speakers:

• Ahmadou Drame, Housing and Community Development Manager, Metropolitan Planning Council
• Josh Ellis, Vice President, Metropolitan Planning Council
• Audrey Wennink, Director of Transportation, Metropolitan Planning Council 

Moderator: 

• Justin Williams, Associate, Metropolitan Planning Council 

Learn more about our 2021 state and federal policy priorities here