(WASHINGTON, DC, January 4, 2007)—Immediately after being sworn in to the 110^th Congress, Illinois Representative Bobby L. Rush moved to get two key bills before his congressional colleagues. Both bills will be of the first 20 bills voted on by the 110^th Congress.

The first, H.R. 18 is the Rosa Parks Bill that will honor Rosa Parks, a true pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement, with a U.S. postal stamp with her likeness on it. The second is H.R. 20 which is also known as the Melanie Stokes Postpartum Depression Research and Care Act seeks to expand and intensify medical research on the causes, diagnosis and treatments of postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis.

Rep. Rush looks forward to continuing to represent the residents of the 1^st District of Illinois whom have given him another opportunity to serve this historic, culturally diverse, lively, unique, and cultural hub of American life.

“I am excited and pleased that the voters of the 1^st District of Illinois had enough confidence and trust in my leadership skills, vision, and commitment to elect me to my 8^th term of Congress,” said Rep. Rush. “I am committed to making sure that the 110^th Congress represents the issues, needs and concerns of my district. My first bill introduced this year reflects the need for our historical contributions to be recognized. The second bill seeks to alleviate some of the health care issues affecting Black women.”

 Regional Whip position

Recognized for his leadership skills and effectiveness, he was also appointed as a Regional Whip for region 4 today where he’ll be representing five states for the Democratic Leadership in the U.S. House.

The primary role of Regional Whip is to keep track of Members' voting records within the region, and "whip," or convince, undecided Members to vote for Democratic policies. With this position, Rush will have increased input during policy formulation, and more influence in advocating positions favorable to Illinois residents.

Rep. Rush, as a Regional Whip, will work with House Democrats from Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

 The core of the 1^st District begins at the tip of Bronzeville and stretches out across many other historic neighborhoods in the City of Chicago including, Auburn-Gresham, Chatham, Englewood, Hyde Park/Kenwood, Morgan Park, West Englewood and Woodlawn and also includes part or all of several south suburban areas: Alsip, Blue Island, Crestwood, Dixmoor, Evergreen Park, Markham, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Orland Hills, Palos Heights, Posen, Robbins, Tinley Park and Worth.