Harris: At some point you must stand for what’s right

• budget

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) expressed his frustration with shortcomings in approving a budget this week. After interference from the governor the Senate was unable to vote on proposals that combined reforms with a spending plan for the rest of FY 17. Harris released the following statement:

“I’m disappointed in the lack of support from my republican colleagues for votes that could have been taken this week. Families are hurting, people are losing their jobs, our bond ratings are dropping and our debt is rising by $11 million a day.

There comes a time in everyone’s legislative career where you must stand for what’s right. I would hope that my colleagues would come together to do what’s right for the people of Illinois.

If not this budget, then what budget? If not now, then when? Our constituents need legislators who want to govern.”

Do the job, governor

• budget
• Rauner

Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Announces Spring Fellowship

The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation has continually played a role in the development of our future leaders. Whether it be the scholarships it gives to students to further their education, or an opportunity to teach middle-schoolers about the function of state government – the ILBCF has been in the forefront. In an effort to further that mission, the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation’s Council on Urban Affairs is soliciting applications for its first class of research fellows. The fellowship will allow college, graduate or law students an opportunity to advance a legislative proposal they develop.

Below are several links with additional information:

ilbcf-fellowship-application
illinois-legislative-black-caucus-foundation-fellowship-program
Send all application materials to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Senate votes to override Rauner’s veto of automatic voter registration

• AVR
• AVRutomatic Voter Registration
• SB250

The Illinois Senate voted Tuesday to override Gov. Bruce Rauner’s veto of legislation (SB 250) that would bring automatic voter registration to Illinois.

The legislation would allow the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and similar state agencies to submit eligible voters’ information to the State Board of Elections when they visit their facilities for services.

State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey), who is a sponsor of the legislation, said he was disappointed to see the governor veto the legislation, but noted that the power of checks and balances prevailed today.

“I stand in strong support of this legislation because we live in a democracy, and everyone deserves to have their voice heard,” Harris said. “This legislation will create an easier, cost-effective registration process and promote participation in our democracy. It is my hope that my colleagues in the House will share the same sentiment.”

The measure passed through the Senate, and now goes to the House for consideration.