Dear Friends,

This spring’s session of the General Assembly is in full swing, and I thought I should update you on some of the important work that is going on at the State Capitol.

Fair Tax
As many of you may know, I am sponsoring a Fair Tax plan to cut taxes for 94 percent of Illinois families while still providing critical services such as education, health care and services for seniors and people with disabilities. This plan faces a steep climb, but I’m still confident that it’s the right thing to do. Read more here.

Illinois Poison Center
Though still subject to important negotiations, my plan to rescue the Illinois Poison Center from a dangerous funding shortfall has passed committee. I believe it’s important to keep this life-saving resource open for parents, families and medical facilities throughout the state. Read more here.

Constitutional amendments to protect citizens’ rights
So far this year, the General Assembly has proposed two constitutional amendments to help protect citizens’ rights. The first gives the victims of crime legally enforceable rights that will help protect them from the continuing trauma created by trials and the potential release of their attackers. The second provides a constitutional protection for the right to vote, guaranteeing that everyone will always be able to take advantage of this important freedom, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, language, income, sex or sexual orientation. I supported both measures, and both passed the General Assembly by wide margins. However, because they are constitutional amendments, you, the voters, will have the final say in November.

Park improvements coming soon
I also want to take this opportunity to announce that funding has been approved for four local park projects. Our parks provide wonderful gathering places for outdoor recreation to improve public health and welfare, and enhance the well-being of the entire community. It is a pleasure to support these improvements.

- Read about projects in Melrose Park, River Grove and Addison here.
- Read about a project in Oak Park here.

Sincerely,

Senator Don Harmon
39th District – Illinois