SPRINGFIELD – A plan to create a Youth Advisory Council for the General Assembly sponsored by State Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, is headed to the full Senate for approval. The legislation creates a legislative body for young people who are interested in getting involved with state government.

“At 29 years old, I am the youngest member of the Illinois Senate,” Aquino said. “I’d like to see more young people involved in the process. The Youth Advisory Council will help us in the General Assembly to better serve the next generation. I look forward to hearing and addressing the ideas and concerns of Illinois’ up-and-coming leaders.”

Two representatives from each senate district would serve on the Youth Advisory Council. The Council would submit a yearly report to the governor and the General Assembly. The focus of this effort is to improve communication between state government and young people. Members would be chosen on a bipartisan basis with one representative chosen by majority leadership and the other chosen by minority leadership.

The legislation, Senate Bill 763, has passed out of committee and moves to the Senate floor for consideration.