Op-Ed: Senator Patrick Joyce (June 2025) – As your State Senator, I remain committed to listening to the concerns of families, farmers, local leaders, and community members across the 40th District and turning those conversations into action. This June, I’m proud to share progress on legislation and initiatives that strengthen our communities, enhance public safety, and invest in the future of our region.
I recently led a measure to expand hunting permit eligibility that will help farmers better manage deer populations threatening their crops. With support from the Illinois Farm Bureau and other stakeholders, this bill passed the Senate and now awaits the Governor’s signature. This legislation provides landowners with more flexible options to address deer-related crop damage — a common concern I’ve heard directly from farmers across our district.
We’re also making strides in improving infrastructure and quality of life in our communities. I’m pleased to share that we’ve secured a $2.7 million grant for the construction of new multi-use paths in Park Forest and Chicago Heights. These paths will provide safe, accessible spaces for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors — promoting healthier lifestyles while connecting neighborhoods.
Another important annual initiative is my Summer Book Club, which encourages young readers to keep learning over the break. Reading over the summer helps prevent learning loss and fosters a lifelong love of books. I invite all families to participate, as it’s a fun and rewarding way to stay engaged.
While we celebrate these wins, we’re also working hard to protect vital industries that support jobs and our local economy. I’m continuing efforts to preserve the Illinois harness racing industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. Although a bill to expand gaming at horse tracks did not pass, I remain focused on finding solutions that support workers and businesses in this historic industry.
Closer to home, I want to highlight an important investment through the state’s “Surplus to Success Program” around the Shapiro Developmental Center in Kankakee. The state’s commitment to develop 70 excess acres of land at Shapiro will benefit the community and engage the City and other local stakeholders in a transformative opportunity that has the potential to bring jobs, economic success and other benefits to Kankakee.
Public safety remains a top priority, and I’m encouraged by local efforts to secure new resources. Kankakee County could soon have its own rescue boat from state river grant funds I secured, improving our region’s emergency response capabilities along local waterways.
I also want to share a timely opportunity for local organizations. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications from July 1 through August 1 for the State Pheasant Fund and Illinois Habitat Fund Special Wildlife Funds grants. These programs support projects that enhance pheasant and wildlife habitats, funded through habitat stamp sales. I encourage eligible groups to apply. Together, we can protect and strengthen our natural environment.
As always, I’m here to listen and work alongside you to advance policies that make our communities safer, stronger, and more connected. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 708-756-0882, visit www.senatorpatrickjoyce.com, or follow my updates on Facebook.
Sen. Patrick Joyce
D-Essex, 40th State Senate District
Op-Ed: Senator Patrick Joyce (June 2025)
