DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy encourages high school-aged women to apply to participate in the Illinois Council on Women and Girls, where they will gain the opportunity to learn the legislative process firsthand.

“It is more important than ever to have women raise their voices in legislative discussions, and this council is an incredible opportunity for young women who are interested in making a positive change in their communities,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Participating in the council will give young women the chance to have a real impact in their communities, and learn to lift their voices and stand for not only their own rights, but for the rights of all women in Illinois.”

The selected young women will serve a one-year term, during which they will participate in bi-weekly meetings to plan events and projects. Starting in December 2022, there will be quarterly meetings with different Illinois committees.

The Illinois Council on Women and Girls seeks to bring the voices of young women into important policy conversations. Participants have the opportunity to provide policy recommendations on legislation that impacts the lives of women and girls in Illinois, critical topics such as health care, academic and economic opportunities, and gender-based violence.

Applications are open for young women grades 9 through 12 and are due no later than Oct. 23. For more information and to apply click here.

“This is also a chance for legislators to learn from the youth of the state, often they have insights that prove vital to creating a better future,” Murphy said. “I’m grateful to the Illinois Council on Women and Girls for providing this opportunity for young women to work towards creating a better future for Illinois.”

Senator Murphy’s office is available to answer questions, please contact 847-718-1110 or through her website at senatorlauramurphy.com/contact-us.

DES PLAINES – Millions of Illinoisans are waiting to receive their tax rebates as part of the Illinois Family Relief Plan. State Senator Laura Murphy is reminding residents they can easily check their rebate status online.

“Financial relief is on the way for millions of Illinois residents,” said Murphy (D- Des Plaines). “My colleagues and I fully believe the most important investment is into the people of Illinois.”

Supported by Murphy, the Illinois Senate championed Senate Bill 157, which provides millions of Illinois taxpayers with financial relief – including direct tax rebates. The rebates began to roll out Sept. 12, leaving many to wonder why they have yet to receive their relief.

People who filed taxes will automatically receive their rebate – otherwise they have until Oct. 17 to do so. To check the status of a rebate, people can click here and select “Where’s My Rebate?” An IL-PIN number is necessary to check the status. To find an IL-PIN number, click here and select “IL-PIN Inquiry.”

Under the law, people who filed 2021 Illinois taxes are eligible to receive up to $700. Individual filers who make less than $200,000 will receive a $50 income tax rebate, and couples who make less than $400,000 will receive $100. Filers are also eligible for $100 per dependent, with a maximum of three.

Additionally, people who paid property taxes in 2021 on their primary residence in 2020 – and make less than $250,000 individually or $500,000 jointly – are eligible for up to $300. The rebate will be equal to the property tax a resident was qualified to claim on their 2021 taxes.

“Millions will be receiving much-needed financial relief thanks to the Illinois Family Relief Plan,” said Murphy. “Don’t worry if you haven’t received your rebate yet, you can check your status online today.”

For more information on how the funds will be dispersed or to see qualification criteria, people can visit tax.illinois.gov/rebates.

DES PLAINES – Illinois taxpayers can expect to see up to $700 in tax rebates in the coming weeks thanks to the State Senator Laura Murphy-supported Illinois Family Relief Plan.

“The last two years have put a strain on people’s pockets – and they are in need of relief,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Through the Illinois Family Relief Plan, we were able to provide millions of hardworking Illinois taxpayers with the assistance they deserve.

Supported by Murphy, the Illinois Senate championed Senate Bill 157, which provides millions of Illinois taxpayers with financial relief – including direct tax rebates.

Under the law, people who filed 2021 Illinois taxes are eligible to receive up to $700. Individual filers who make less than $200,000 will receive a $50 income tax rebate, and couples who make less than $400,000 will receive $100. Filers are also eligible for $100 per dependent, with a maximum of three.

Additionally, people who paid property taxes in 2021 on their primary residence in 2020 – and make less than $250,000 individually or $500,000 jointly – are eligible for up to $300. The rebate will be equal to the property tax a resident was qualified to claim on their 2021 taxes.

People who filed taxes will automatically receive their rebate starting this week – otherwise they have until Oct. 17 to do so.

“As a state, we paid our bills, saw our credit rating improve and now it’s time to further invest in our priorities – the very people who live in the state,” Murphy said. “Through the uncertain challenges of recent years, the General Assembly has worked tirelessly to show residents we are prioritizing them.”

For more information on how the funds will be dispersed or to see qualification criteria, people can visit tax.illinois.gov/rebates.

DES PLAINES—To address the nationwide blood shortage, State Senator Laura Murphy is holding a Blood Drive Tuesday, Sept. 13 at the Prairie Lake Community Center.

“Blood transfusions are required for many life-saving operations and procedures,” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “When there is a short supply of blood, less operations can be performed safely—leaving many people without the immediate medical attention they need.  I hope this drive will bolster our local blood supply to make sure those who need medical care can get treatment as quickly as possible.”

In January, the Red Cross announced they were experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. Hospitals across the country were only receiving one-quarter of the blood products they requested, severely limiting the amount and type of procedures doctors would be able to perform. With less donations on average over the summer because of schedule changes and vacation time, now is a great time to donate and work on replenishing the blood supply.

Senator Murphy’s drive will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Mountain View Rooms of the Prairie Lake Community Center, located at 515 E. Thacker St. in Des Plaines. Her office recommends filling out this form before arrival.