Last week Northwestern University invited me to be part of their NU in Government Day. I had the chance to speak with students about my role as a State Senator and what led me to pursue a career in public service.

As a graduate of Northwestern, I can attest to the great programs and support the university has to offer. My time spent there played an influential role in my decision to pursue public service.

I was honored to be invited to speak with these bright and engaged students. These students have very promising futures ahead of them.

Springfield, IL – Legislation sponsored by Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) that would raise the state's contract goal for minority and women-owned businesses from 10 percent to 20 percent passed out of committee today.  

Senate Bill 275 increases opportunity for minority and women owned businesses to win state construction contracts. It would require building construction contracts in excess of $250,000 be unbundled or subject to separate and independent bidding processes for each of the five required subdivisions of work. For instance, it would separate plumbing from general contract work.

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