SPRINGFIELD – As schools across the south suburbs wrap up the school year, State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey) supported a $7 billion state education funding plan that would allow schools to open on time for the next school year unless Gov. Bruce Rauner rejects the plan.

“We cannot play around when it comes to education funding,” said Harris. “Our future starts in our schools, and making sure they receive the funding they need to keep their doors open will remain my priority. I hope the governor will make this a priority too, and not hold these funds hostage while we debate the rest of this budget.”

This year’s education spending plan represents a $295 million dollar increase of direct aid to schools: a $207 million dollar increase to per-student funding as well as an $85 million increase to school districts with high poverty and fewer available local resources.

The Senate approved this increase Friday, which had been previously approved by the House. It requires the governor’s approval before local district will receive funding for the next school year.

According to the Illinois Farm Bureau, this award honors state and federal legislators who understand the importance of Illinois Agriculture. Recipients of this award recognize the far-reaching benefits of Illinois’ agricultural products and the importance farmers play in providing quality food, fiber and fuel for our State, Nation and World.

Senator Harris said, “It's an honor and privilege to be recognized as a proud supporter of one of the largest industries of our economy and to support working class families in Illinois.  Maintaining the America tradition of the family farms benefits the community and provides jobs which enhances the local economy.  When we buy local, we allow local farmers to receive a profit on the crops they produce, which will reduce the likelihood of losing more family farms to developers.”

Today, State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey) hosted a Re-Employment Resource Fair at the Gloria Taylor Banquet Hall in Harvey.

The event helped residents from the community learn about job opportunities with the state and local companies. Central Management Services gave a presentation about the State’s application process and employment opportunities within the agency.

“The 15th Senate district has some of the most economically depressed communities in the state, mostly due to lack of jobs,” Sen. Harris said. “Our community needs jobs, plain and simple, and if I’m not helping find a solution then I’m part of the problem.”

At today’s event, the Illinois Department of Employment Securities provided attendees with resume help, information about the Illinois workNet program and other services to assist with improving attendee’s chances of finding employment.

“Helping people find jobs directly impacts our community’s economic sustainability,” Harris said. “It’s a proven fact that when unemployment increases, crime increases. I just want to do my part to help our neighborhoods reach their full potential.”

Several state agencies and private companies were also on hand to provide participants with information about job vacancies.