Senate President Harmon: Responsible state budgets produce opportunity to invest in our children, future

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Senate President Don Harmon’s statement on the budget plan unveiled Wednesday by Gov. JB Pritzker.

“We have labored for years to build a solid, stable fiscal foundation for the state of Illinois. Because of those responsible decisions, we find ourselves in the position to be able to invest in our future and do so in a way that can make a real difference.

“I applaud the governor for starting this conversation and for setting priorities that hopefully can bring people together in bipartisan support.

“From enrolling more children in early education programs, to keeping our promise to fund K-12 schools, to getting back to investing in higher education opportunities and devoting resources to address the growing problem of homelessness, there’s a lot to like in this budget.

“Senate Democrats look forward to the opportunity to explore it in greater detail in the weeks and months ahead.”

Harmon elected Senate President, delivers message on public service and integrity

SPRINGFIELD — Oak Park Democrat Don Harmon was elected Senate President by his colleagues Wednesday, vowing to keep Illinois moving forward and calling on all in public office to recognize and honor the responsibilities and high standards the public expects.

“Each of us serves roughly a quarter million people back home. A quarter million people. What is best for them? What is best for the millions of working families across our state? What is best for the nearly 13 million people who collectively call Illinois home?” Harmon said. “Be guided by that truth, whether it be politically convenient or not. If your motivations are elsewhere, the Illinois Senate is not for you.”

Read more: Harmon elected Senate President, delivers message on public service and integrity

Senate President Don Harmon inauguration remarks as prepared

Thank you Governor Pritzker for presiding over our opening ceremonies.

One of these years, maybe, just maybe, we’ll have a normal Senate ceremony in our normal Senate chamber.

But probably not anytime soon.

The Senate seems to be pretty good at finding new and different ways to be different.

I am honored and humbled to receive the support of my colleagues to serve in this post.

Thank you.

Read more: Senate President Don Harmon inauguration remarks as prepared

State assault weapons ban gains widespread support

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. JB Pritzker, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Senate President Don Harmon issued a joint statement in support of a sweeping assault weapons ban. The Senate passed the legislation Monday and the House is expected to put final approval on it Tuesday to send to the governor’s desk.

Joint statement from the three leaders:

“After continued negotiations between the leaders, stakeholders and advocates, we have reached a deal on one of the strongest assault weapons bans in the country. 

“Gun violence is an epidemic that is plaguing every corner of this state and the people of Illinois are demanding substantive action. With this legislation we are delivering on the promises Democrats have made and, together, we are making Illinois’ gun laws a model for the nation.” 

Read more: State assault weapons ban gains widespread support