Caucus News

Details: Category: Senator Julie A. Morrison News; Published: Monday, February 08, 2021 01:08 PM

SPRINGFIELD – As COVID-19 vaccine distribution continues, Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) and her colleagues have fielded hundreds of questions and concerns from people across the state about the rollout, leading her to schedule a hearing to help get to the bottom of the confusing process and call for a more comprehensive and timely plan.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is the greatest line of defense we have against the pandemic,” Morrison said. “Unfortunately, many people across the state who are eligible for the vaccine haven’t been able to get their dose – and that’s disheartening. I hope this hearing will lead us toward a path of greater efficiency.”

Details: Category: Senator Don Harmon News; Published: Monday, February 08, 2021 11:19 AM

SPRINGFIELD — Senate President Don Harmon issued the following statement on the passing of Karen Lewis.

"I cherished Karen’s friendship and mentorship and will always be better for it. She was an amazing person, devoted teacher, champion of the professional educator and skilled leader. She was one of a kind, dedicated to her core to challenging and changing lives and communities. We are indebted to her service and leadership, for which she will be remembered and forever missed."

Details: Category: Member News; Published: Friday, February 05, 2021 04:05 PM

Valentine's Day cards Many older adults have been isolated from their loved ones for nearly a year due to the ongoing public health crisis. To show people living in long-term care facilities that people are thinking about them, a number of democratic senators are collecting Valentine’s Day card from their respective communities.

“Whether the cards are bought in a store or made from paper and markers, many older residents could use an extra reminder that they are cared for,” said State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport).

From now until Feb. 10, Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign), Senator John Connor (D-Lockport), Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon), Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs), Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) and Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) will be collecting store-bought and hand-made cards. The cards will then be donated to a number of long-term care facilities across the districts they represent.

Details: Category: Senator Kimberly A. Lightford News; Published: Friday, February 05, 2021 03:26 PM

BROADVIEW - Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) released a video message urging Illinoisans to wear a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“This pandemic has shined a light on the inequities faced in Black and Brown communities, especially when it comes to education,” Lightford said. “I urge everyone to do their part and mask up, so we can get students back into classrooms safely and give them the resources they need to succeed.”

Details: Category: Senator Napoleon Harris III News; Published: Wednesday, February 03, 2021 02:52 PM

Harris

Senator Harris DOLTON - State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) released the following statement on the NFL using race as a category to judge whether ex-players should be paid for head injury claims Wednesday:

"It's sickening that the National Football League uses race to determine concussion settlements. Black players who sustained injuries while playing deserve the same support as white players. This is further proof the NFL does not care about players' livelihoods after their football career is finished – but rather only when they can help the league.

Details: Category: Majority Report; Published: Tuesday, February 02, 2021 06:01 PM

Villivalam to host virtual job fair

CHICAGO — State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) is partnering with local officials and workforce development agencies to bring a virtual job fair to residents of the 8th Senate District this week. The free, online event will take place this Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“My office and I have assisted several hundred residents who are experiencing unemployment or underemployment. People are struggling right now and through our conversations, we know they are asking for a hand up, not a hand out,” Villivalam said. “I encourage everyone seeking employment opportunities to virtually meet the many employers looking for local talent.”

members in the news

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MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

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Senator Michael Hastings, Frankfort: Tinley Park convention center to open Tuesday as COVID-19 vaccination site | NBC 5 Chicago

Senator Patrick Joyce, Essex: Joyce seeks to improve COVID-19 vaccination process | Patch.com

Details: Category: Senator Christopher Belt News; Published: Tuesday, February 02, 2021 05:09 PM

Senator Belt EAST ST. LOUIS – As the 102nd General Assembly begins, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is honored to serve as the Senate Education Committee chair.

"I am excited and honored to be selected as the Senator Education Committee chair for the 102nd General Assembly," Belt said. "As the chair, I will ensure that our youth are getting the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

The Senate Education Committee is at the forefront of creating legislation for students in grades K-12 in public and private schools.

Belt served four years on the board of Cahokia Unit School District 187, including two years as board president. He created the Difference Makers Professional Organization, which is dedicated to strengthening young men's decision-making capabilities between ages 9 and 18. He also authored an educational children's book, "The Adventures of Nate the Gnat," to teach youth how to be safe, responsible people.

As Senate Education Committee chair, Belt wants to help develop students’ workforce skills from K-12 and create career and higher education paths for students transitioning out of high school.

Details: Category: Senator Napoleon Harris III News; Published: Tuesday, February 02, 2021 05:06 PM

Harris

Senator Harris DOLTON – State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) will host a virtual town hall to share updated information on the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ agenda and COVID-19 vaccines.

Harris will be broadcasting the town hall live on Feb. 9, at 6 p.m., from his Facebook page.

“After the January session, many residents had questions about the package of legislation we passed. This town hall is a great opportunity for them to get answers,” Harris said. “I urge community members to join to understand the Black Caucus’ agenda is all about equality and inclusion for people of color.”

During the January session, the Illinois Senate Legislative Black Caucus passed the most comprehensive legislative package in the nation to rid Illinois of systemic racism. The purpose of the town hall is to clarify misconceptions about the measures and answer any outstanding questions.

Harris will also discuss the state’s vaccination distribution plan.

For questions or additional information, Harris urges residents to contact his office at 708-893-0552 or visit his website.