Harris supports more funding to Illinois Department of Employment Security

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) released the following statement regarding Gov. JB Pritzker State of the State and budget address Wednesday:

“I received many calls from families about their unemployment difficulties throughout this pandemic. I can say that I strongly support the governor’s decision to invest more funding in call center workers, IT resources, and fraud analysis at the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

“In addition, as a person who supports entrepreneurship, the proposal will increase funding to continue to support our small businesses through the Cannabis Social Equity Local Program. Disadvantaged communities will also continue to receive capital grant funding to grow economic development opportunities through the Shovel Ready Sites Program and opportunity zone investments.

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Grant Writing Class

State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) will be arranging for one person in his district to take a two-day grant writing workshop for free. If you would like to be selected to take the class free of charge, follow the instructions here: 2.10.21_Grant_Writing_Classes.pdf

Harris advocates for ex NFL Black players benefits

DOLTON- State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) released the following statement on theNFL using raceas 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.

“Nearly 70% of the league’s players are Black, yet a system has been created that holds Black players and white players to different standards.In other professions, distinctions based on race rise to the level of constitutional violations, so whyis it ok for the NFL to put players in different groups based on race?

"The NFL needs to be advised on equality, and these players continue to advocate for long-term benefits after retirement. If current players do not get on top of this now, it will be a continuous cycle abused by the NFL.”

Harris virtual town hall moved to Feb. 9

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 at https://www.facebook.com/SenatorNapoleonBHarrisIII.

“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.”

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