ILLINOIS DIABETES CAUCUS FORMED BY BI-PARTISAN STATE LEGISLATORS

On March 31, Illinois lawmakers formed a Legislative Diabetes Caucus made up of a bi-partisan group of state legislators impassioned by the impact of diabetes. Its goal is to engage in outreach that not only mitigates the burden of diabetes, but provides support for those who suffer from the disease.  According to a Huntley Patch article, Tom Cross (R-Oswego) mentions that "almost ten percent of Illinoisans suffer from either Type I or Type II diabetes."  Cross has a child living with Type I diabetes and is personally affected by this issue. 

According to the article, Representative Cynthia Soto's (D-Chicago) district has the highest percentage of people living with diabetes.  She states, "Along with my colleagues and diabetes caucus members, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and bring clear awareness and education to our state and to the people and families affected by the issue." You can access the caucus's mission statement and goals here. 

Women In Government applauds the formation of the Illinois Diabetes Caucus and hopes that other state legislators may extend their healthcare agenda towards supporting initiatives to fight the disease and its comorbidities.  Every state faces the burden of diabetes.  As a state legislator, you can access information about your constituent health status here.  Policies that address gaps in education, preventive measures, and access to treatment are the initiatives needed to support constituents who only need the tools to manage and contain the complications of this disease.  Please visit our Resources & Publications section of the Diabetes Policy Resource Center for more information.