Senate committee discusses expansion U of I’s rapid COVID-19 testing

SPRINGFIELD – The Senate Higher Education Committee held a hearing Monday on the progress of SHIELD Illinois, the system which administers University of Illinois’ state-of-the-art rapid COVID-19 test, which uses saliva rather than the common nasal swab and is intended to be made available to all of the state’s public universities.

"Everyone at the U of I involved in developing and utilizing the saliva test deserves our thanks," said Senator McGuire, Chair of the Higher Education Committee. "Our next task is to implement the test at our eight other public universities so they can resume in-person learning next semester."

According to Tim Killeen, president of the U of I System, the university is organizing a testing program and infrastructure to deploy the innovative test across the state. This plan includes a prototype lab on wheels that will allow testing to take place where it is needed most.

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Illinois electors cast their votes

Senate President Don Harmon issued the following statement following Monday’s electoral college vote:

“I was proud to cast my electoral ballot today for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to become the next President and Vice President of the United States.

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Belt, Crowe recommend Getting Around Illinois for updates on winter road conditions

MARYVILLE – With winter weather fast approaching, State Senators Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) recommend bookmarking the Illinois Department of Transportation’s GettingAroundIllinois.com website for continually updated information on road conditions.

“We all know how dangerous roads can become in the wintertime,” Belt said. “During snowy or icy conditions, Getting Around Illinois is a great tool for determining whether your trip out is safe.”

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Harris: Diverse individuals are waiting for their opportunity

SPRINGFIELD – To address issues of diversity and inclusion for Black and Brown communities, State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) will chair two virtual hearings of the Special Committee on Pension Investments Dec. 10 and 11 at 1 p.m. to discuss diversity goals for pension investment managers with representatives from various Illinois pension funds. 

“There’s no denying the racial injustice and discrimination that people of color have to face on a daily basis,” Harris said. “Programs like the Emerging Manager Program are helpful, but there is still a long list of diverse individuals who are waiting for the opportunity to be a part of the investment management business.” 

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