SPRINGFIELD – Celebrating the vibrant role parks play in enhancing our communities, State Senator Willie Preston welcomed the Oak Lawn Park District to the Capitol for Parks Day this week.

“It’s always a pleasure to welcome constituents from the Sweet 16th District to the Capitol,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “The parks in our district play a huge role in community engagement, giving youth and their families a place to come together to socialize in a safe and accessible place.”

SPRINGFIELD – Emphasizing the critical need for improved access to colonoscopy screenings, State Senator Willie Preston joined State Representative Cyril Nichols at a press conference Wednesday to highlight a new measure, House Bill 2385, that would facilitate the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.

“Discussing colonoscopies may not be the easiest conversation to have, but it's a vital one, especially for Black men,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Increasing access to colonoscopy screenings empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being and provides peace of mind through preventative care.”

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, yet it is highly preventable through early detection and removal of precancerous polyps. During the press conference, speakers emphasized the significance of regular screenings for individuals, especially Black men over the age of 39, as well as those with a family history of the disease or other risk factors.

SPRINGFIELD – To reduce barriers for Illinoisans trying to access a colonoscopy, State Senator Willie Preston advanced legislation requiring all health insurance plans to cover the cost of the procedure when deemed medically necessary.

“Removing hurdles for people trying to be proactive with their health is incredibly valuable,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This legislation prioritizes preventive care, enhancing its accessibility and empowering folks to take control of their health by having access to the resources they need to be proactive.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Willie Preston advanced legislation to ban harmful chemicals in candy, soda and other food items sold and produced in Illinois.

“The FDA has failed to take action on this pressing issue,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “Safer alternatives are already being used in the EU and other places. We need to make sure that safer choices are available to families in Illinois and hopefully, other states will follow so all consumers have access to the healthiest options.”

Over the last few decades, studies show that the number of chemicals being added to foods is steadily increasing and are linked to heightened health risks.