SPRINGFIELD – In order to dismantle systemic inequality, combat discrimination in the workplace and promote growth in underserved communities, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) has sponsored legislation that seeks to eliminate barriers to economic access, equity and opportunity.

“Black Americans make up about one in nine workers, but they represent one in six front-line workers— they should have the same career opportunities as any other individual,” Belt said. “This legislation is part of a larger effort to level the playing field moving forward.” 

In order to eliminate historical economic disparities, the Senate passed a series of bills that addresses the third pillar of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ anti-racism agenda—economic access, equity and opportunity—which is made up of nine parts:

SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Senate President Don Harmon issued the following statement congratulating the new Speaker of the Illinois House Chris Welch.

“Congratulations to Representative Welch on being elected Speaker of the House. It is a historic occasion.

“We have worked together for years serving the near western suburbs, so I know firsthand the commitment he has to the people he represents.

“We have monumental challenges ahead of us this legislative session. I look forward to working with Speaker Welch to meet them.”

­CHICAGO – To set a standard of dignified working conditions in new industries, State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) passed the Future of Work Act in the Illinois Senate on Wednesday.

“Our economy is changing dramatically to adapt to the pandemic, new industries and technology,” Villivalam said. “Illinois must be a leader in building an equitable future for working families by establishing clear and dignified standards of work.”

The Future of Work Act would establish the Future of Work Task Force to assess new and emerging technologies that have the potential to impact employment and wages, develop a baseline of job standards and working conditions, facilitate workforce development and research best practices on how to deploy technology to benefit working people.

The Task Force would consist of 16 bipartisan members of the General Assembly, six members appointed by the governor, the Superintendent of the State Board of Education and the Directors of the Illinois Departments of Labor, Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Employment Security.

The Future of Work Task Force will issue its final report to the governor and General Assembly by Nov. 1, 2021. The legislation, filed under House Bill 3469, awaits consideration in the Illinois House.

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) issued the following statement congratulating Representative Emmanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Westchester) on his historic election as the first Black speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives:

“I want to congratulate Chris Welch on becoming the first Black speaker of the Illinois House in our state’s more-than-200-year history. His election marks another important step forward for Black Illinoisans in our long march toward equality. Coupled with the passage of much of our agenda to rid the state of systemic racism, this has been an incredible week for African Americans in Illinois.

“On a more personal note, I want to congratulate Speaker Welch as my state representative, my constituent, and my friend. I look forward to continuing to work closely with you to advance the progress of our state, the Black community, and the residents of our shared district.”

With the start of the 102^nd General Assembly, we are saying farewell to several of our colleagues who are moving on to new opportunities. We will miss their contributions, commitment and camaraderie, but wish them nothing but more success in the future.