SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate began a new session today with the inauguration of the 101st General Assembly.

State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) is looking forward to continuing his work on issues that affect south suburban communities.

“We have a lot of opportunity to work on issues that were put on the backburner during the last administration,” Harris said. “I’m looking forward to bringing the concerns of the South Suburbs to the forefront and helping our communities.”

Harris was elected to his first term in 2012 and represents the 15th Senate District in part of Chicago and the South Suburbs.

SPRINGFIELD – Midlothian residents will enjoy expanded programs from the Midlothian Park District after state lawmakers reversed the governor’s veto of a measure sponsored by State Senator Napoleon Harris III.

Harris (D-Harvey) sponsored a plan to allow the Midlothian Park District to proceed with a $13 million bond issue – approved by local voters in March – to pay for an addition to a recreation center built in 1970 and to expand programs.

“The community will benefit from a long-overdue expansion of the districts rec center, and students will have after school and summer programs to keep them out of harm’s way,” Harris said. “Local residents want this, they voted for it, and the governor should not stand in their way.”

Senate Bill 2589 exempts the park district from a state-mandated cap on borrowing. Gov. Bruce Rauner vetoed the measure in August.

The Senate voted 42-0 to override the veto on Wednesday.