SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Senate approved an expanded vote-by-mail program that has garnered increased popularity across the state and country amid public health concerns over voting and elections during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Senate President Don Harmon voted for the expanded vote-by-mail program and issued the following statement:

“This is an overdue step toward modern convenience and safety in our elections,” said Harmon. “It’s unfortunate it took a global pandemic to convince people of its value, but expanding vote by mail is a needed election reform that I hope voters will utilize.”

SPRINGFIELD —Thanks to efforts from State Senator Julie Morrison, Illinoisans will have a more accessible way to cast their ballots from the safety of their homes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, standing in line to vote isn’t safe for many, specifically older populations and those at higher health risks. 

“COVID-19 has made congregating in small and enclosed spaces more dangerous,” Morrison said. “Long lines to get to the ballot box would require people to choose between their health and their right to vote.”

Corrects taxing mistakes, supports independent entrepreneurs

SPRINGFIELD – To address immediate issues facing the newly forming legalized cannabis industry in Illinois, especially in light of the pandemic, State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago) successfully passed legislation out of the Illinois Senate today to expedite the hiring process for new employees, ensure a fair marketplace for independent cannabis businesses and rectify inconsistencies in the law.

“This plan came about through cooperation across the aisle and between both chambers of the legislature, with input from the governor’s administration, law enforcement, and business,” Steans said. “I am grateful for their hard work and for our ability to get this done despite the challenges we’ve faced during the pandemic.”

SPRINGFIELD – To help guide local governments through the COVID-19 recovery process, State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) has sponsored a package of legislation to give municipalities the means to address pandemic-related challenges.

“Especially now, local governments are keeping our communities afloat by managing our regional health departments and providing financial, housing and meal assistance to struggling Illinoisans,” said Murphy. “I hope this legislation can help them continue to provide much-needed services as we look to recover from this pandemic.”