Senator Fine urges Illinoisans to be mindful of mental health during COVID-19 outbreak

GLENVIEW – To help Illinoisans manage their mental health from home during the COVID-19 outbreak, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is sharing resources she hopes will offer support to those struggling.

“We talk a lot about hand washing, social distancing and other measures to protect physical health during this pandemic, but what about mental health?” said Fine. “We’re all experiencing added stress during this time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I urge you to reach out.”

The North Suburban Cook County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness offers specialized resources for individuals who may need assistance. Residents are encouraged to call 847-716-2252 learn about local support groups and programs available during the COVID-19 crisis.

Senator Fine also encourages residents to take simple steps to care for themselves, such as:

• Connecting with friends and family online,
• Keeping regular work hours and routines while at home,
• Preparing healthy meals,
• Exercising regularly, and
• Staying up to date with accurate information.

“It’s important to continue to respect social distancing guidelines, but that doesn’t mean we have to be isolated,” said Fine. “Maintaining strong relationships with your friends and loved ones will help us all get through this challenging time.”

Fine’s office is closed during the Stay at Home Order, but her staff is continuing to work remotely to respond to calls and emails. She encourages those with questions and concerns to reach out by calling 847-998-1717 or visiting senatorfine.com/contact.

If you or someone you know is experiencing an urgent mental health crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1 (800) 273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Text Line counselor. Both resources are available 24/7.

More information about COVID-19 can be found at coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Senator Fine urges domestic violence survivors to seek help during Stay at Home Order

SPRINGFIELD – Because the state’s Stay at Home Order can cause serious complications for those who experience or live in fear of domestic violence, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) urges Illinoisans to spread the word about a new $1.2 million plan to improve state resources for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors during the COVID-19 crisis.

“Asking Illinoisans to stay home may sound like a simple request, but for many people who experience or fear domestic violence, home isn’t a safe space. To make things worse, the COVID-19 outbreak may limit access to critical services,” said Fine. “We can’t forget about the health and safety of our survivors who may be in a dangerous situation during this time.”

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced April 2 that it will increase the capacity of its current statewide network of services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Under this plan, the Domestic Violence Helpline will become a one-stop access point for shelter needs. Survivors may call the Helpline directly at 1-877-TO END DV (1-877-863-6338 voice or 1-877-863-6339 TTY) to be connected to shelter services. Survivors also may contact their local domestic violence programs for shelter assistance.

IDHS is also working with the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence to establish an emergency fund to support local providers with needs related to COVID-19.

“If you feel threatened or at risk during this pandemic, please don’t wait—call the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-877-863-6338 for help,” said Fine.

For more information about COVID-19 and COVID-19 relief services, visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Senator Fine urges consumers to report scams, price gouging

GLENVIEW – In response to a surge in scams and price gouging since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is urging residents to file any complaints with the Office of the Attorney General to report unfair practices connected to the pandemic.

Gov. JB Pritzker issued an executive order March 16 to prohibit price gouging and give Attorney General Kwame Raoul enforcement authority. The Office of the Attorney General is directing businesses to maintain fair pricing, particularly on items public health agencies are recommending people use to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

“People should be focusing on keeping themselves and their families healthy—they shouldn’t have to worry about scams,” Fine said. “I’m glad that the attorney general has stepped up to combat price gouging and protect consumers.”

The Office of the Attorney General is also monitoring products on websites including Amazon, eBay and Facebook, and contacting companies regarding ads or offers that may be problematic.

“If you have information about scams or price gouging, please file a complaint with the attorney general immediately,” Fine said.

To find out how to identify and report price gouging and scams, please visit illinoisattorneygeneral.gov.

Sales tax deferrals available for small businesses impacted by COVID-19

To help alleviate some of the economic challenges facing bars and restaurants due to COVID-19, the Department of Revenue will defer sales tax payments for more than 24,000 small- and medium-sized bars and restaurants.

This deferral is expected to provide relief to nearly 80% of bars and restaurants in Illinois. Find more information and check whether your business qualifies here.

To learn more about what measures the state is taking to help Illinoisans affected by COVID-19-- including offering disaster assistance loans, establishing dedicated shopping hours for seniors and expanding health care services-- read Gov. JB Pritzker's March 19 announcement here.