Dear Stephanie,

Sometimes I blink and the weeks disappear. I just realized that I have been behind on sending out my weekly updates. My apologies. Thus I have provided a summary of what I have been doing and some important information for you below. You can also view my weekly FB live broadcasts to keep up to date as well.

I am proud of the work that the members of the Personnel and Pension Committee has been doing throughout the summer. The pensions of the state of Illinois has been an issue for decades.

This past week holds a special place in our hearts as we observed National Be Kind to Humankind Week. Small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity that uplifts our society. Practice Being Kind to Humankind not just this week, but every week!

September marks National Suicide Prevention Month, a crucial time to shed light on the pressing issue of suicide prevention. As a Veteran myself, I am deeply passionate about ending Veteran suicide, a significant yet preventable challenge in our nation. It's disheartening to note that veterans account for nearly a quarter of suicide deaths in the U.S. Together, we must work tirelessly to ensure that every member of our community receives the support they deserve.

Let's stand together to create a safer, kinder, and more supportive environment for everyone.

Wishing you a meaningful week ahead.

P.S. Please reach out to our office if you need assistance at (630) 585-1308 or send me an email.

WHAT'S BEEN GOING ON?

These past weeks have been busy. Here is a recap of all that has been happening.

I had the privilege of attending the NCSL Legislative Summit, where I actively participated in the Task Force for Military and Veterans Affairs. It was an inspiring experience to collaborate with fellow lawmakers and experts to address the needs and concerns of our military personnel and veterans. Our commitment to supporting those who have served our nation remains unwavering, and I am determined to bring their voices to the forefront of our policy discussions.

On August 14th, we took a moment to recognize Navajo Code Talkers Day. In the midst of the Second World War, Navajo servicemen displayed remarkable bravery and ingenuity as they employed indigenous languages to transmit vital messages. Their contributions played a pivotal role in our nation's success, and it is with deep gratitude that we celebrate their sacrifice and courage.

The 36th Annual Back to School Bash, an event presented by the Aurora African-American Heritage Board, is one I always enjoy attending. It was heartening to witness our community's commitment to education and support for our youth. This year we are reminded of our departed loved one Alderman Scheketa Hart-Burns who started the Back to School Bash and truly supported her community and the children in it. She will be eternally missed.

I was honored to coordinate an insightful conversation with Veterans and Illinois US Senator Durbin, as we focused on the important topics concerning our veterans, such as supporting transitioning Veterans who are leaving service and suicide prevention support. I will continue to be a voice for our Veterans.

Later, I had the privilege of addressing the Stonegate Men's Breakfast Club, engaging in meaningful discussions that drive positive change. If your group or club would like me to discuss the state of the State of Illinois, please let me know. It is nice to see gatherings again and we will work on returning to an in person meeting at least once a month.

The state of Illinois supports non-profits that do so much for the community. I was honored to present a grant to the Metropolitan Family Services, reaffirming the power of collective efforts to uplift our neighborhoods and provide needed services for victims of domestic abuse and assault.

I began this week by participating in the DuPage County Veterans Resource Fair, an event that underscores our commitment to providing essential resources and support to those who have served our nation. Presented by the DuPage County Recorder and the VAC of DuPage, this fair exemplifies the power of collaboration in ensuring my fellow Veterans' well-being.

Lastly, as the Chair of the Personnel and Pensions Committee for the Illinois House, I have been holding committee meetings throughout the summer to finally find a solution to the Pension issues that the State of Illinois is facing. Lots more work needs to be done.



Kids Expo - Two Weeks Away!

Saturday, September 16

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

This past month the Governor signed two pension bills that I sponsored in the House. These are two important steps down the path of fixing our pension system for good.

As head of the Personnel & Pensions Committee I have held several Subject Matter Hearings on pensions this summer, and am looking forward to continuing the work of pension reform into the fall and Veto session.

Both of these measures take effect immediately.

SB 1646 - Pension Omnibus package containing A LOT of different changes to laws, all of which were unanimously passed out of the Senate Special Committee on Pensions. This includes a provision allowing Paraprofessionals and School-Related Personnel (PSRPs) to return to schools as substitute paras without putting their retirement security at risk.

SB 1235 - Changes how service years are calculated for participants in the State Universities Retirement System. Qualified employment for any fraction of a calendar month (instead of at least 15 or more days) will now be counted as one service month. This applies to all service periods for members who are participants on or after September 1, 2024.

Governor Pritzker also signed:

HB 3326 - First-in-the-nation bill that prevents Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) from being used to track individuals seeking abortion care or criminalizing a person’s immigration status.

SB 850 - Establishes the Illinois Grocery Initiative, investing $20 million in food deserts across the state.

HB 2352 - Amends the Illinois Pension Code, codifying Cook County’s Agreement to use sales tax revenue, rather than just a property tax levy, as a funding source for pension payments.

For more information on all bills visit ilga.gov

3rd Annual Roosevelt-Aurora Post 84 of the American Legion Golf Outing

Join me and my fellow Veterans for the 3rd Annual Post 84 Golf Outing. It is a fun event and all the proceeds go to help area Veterans and Post 84.

MORE INFORMATION

Are you a small business owner? Check out the Smart Business Illinois Program! Smart Business Illinois offers counseling and guidance to small businesses. If you have any questions, call (312) 814-0033 or go here.

Glenbard Parent Series (GPS) presents distinguished, practical, evidence-based speakers to connect and inspire with strategies to help children of every age thrive. Programs are free, virtual and open to the public. Links and details at GlenbardGPS.org

Check-out upcoming Navigating Healthy Families speakers at the flier below:

The Senior Services Association has announced the 17th Annual Aurora Pie Auction to be held on Friday, November 10th, 2023!

This year's auctions will be in celebration of their Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary)! The event supports the work their dedicated staff perform each day to help Kane County seniors, disabled adults, caregivers and Veterans.

Read this form to see how you can get involved! ➡️

Once completed, mail, fax, or email it to kharrison@seniorservicesassoc.org by October 23.

In recognition of Labor Day, there will be no Facebook Live on Monday

Watch the most recent Coffee Chat on Facebook!

Or, subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts 🎧!

I continue to host Monday Morning Coffee live via Facebook at 9:00am-10:00am where you can post your comments and questions.

I realize not everyone has Facebook. The good news is that you can still participate. If you would like to join us on Monday mornings, you can join in via ZOOM! Once connected via ZOOM, you'll be able to interact just as if you were on Facebook. Don't worry you will not be on live - your video feed and mic will be muted.

The ZOOM link will be emailed to everyone separately for Monday morning participation.

If you would like to join us, please email Michelle@ILDistrict84.com or call the

office at 630.585.1308.