SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) released the following statement regarding a budget that addresses Illinois’ unemployment system and the Black Caucus plan to rid Illinois of systemic racism. 

“One of the greatest needs in our state is to continue to provide access to unemployment resources to workers who were laid off because of pandemic. We increased funding to the Department of Employment Security by over $100 million for software upgrades and staff increases. 

“Also, some of the Black Caucus agenda to rid Illinois of systemic racism will receive funding to ensure our disadvantaged communities get the investments they need the most. 

SPRINGFIELD – As an ex-college player and advocate for student-athletes, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) is nearing victory in his fight to allow Illinois student-athletes to receive compensation from their use names, images, or likenesses who attend Illinois colleges and universities.  

"These student athletes shed their blood, sweat, and tears to play college sports,” Harris said. “Their schools’ benefit off their talent by selling clothing, rights to use their images in video games and more. The kids deserve to get financial benefit, too especially at powerhouse universities who generate millions of dollars." 

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) advanced his effort to ensure insurance companies adopt and expand telehealth services, with a particular focus on serving disadvantaged communities.  

“The pandemic has highlighted existing racial, economic, and geographic disparities that hinder access to medical treatment,” Harris said. “Creating uniform rules for insurance companies’ telehealth services could improve access for everyone, especially members of disproportionately impacted communities that have limited resources.”

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Black Wall Street legislation passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) continues to advocate for increased support for Black-owned businesses throughout Illinois, passing a new economic stimulus program out of the Senate.

“Our Black businesses will not last if we do not elevate them and provide the resources they need to compete in Illinois,” Harris said. “I have seen firsthand the struggles these Black business owners face to succeed – struggles that could have been prevented if they had the same support as other businesses.” 

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