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.” 

Read more: Harris: Diverse individuals are waiting for their opportunity

Manar holding joint committee hearing to report on the progress of the Illinois Commission on Equitable Early Childhood Education & Care Funding

SPRINGFIELD – To provide the public with an update on the progress made by the Illinois Commission on Equitable Early Childhood Education & Care Funding, State Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) is holding a joint hearing of the Senate Appropriations II and Education Committees.

Read more: Manar holding joint committee hearing to report on the progress of the Illinois Commission on...

Morrison: Fix the FOID will save lives, end backlog

HIGHWOOD — As other members of the General Assembly raise concerns about the FOID card backlog and outline a Second Amendment agenda, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is encouraging her colleagues to support the final push for her comprehensive firearms measure. 

“Fix the FOID is not anti-gun — it simply ensures guns are not possessed by people who should not legally have them,” Morrison said. “Fingerprinting everyone who applies for a card will help raise red flags if that person has a violent criminal history that should keep them from having a firearm.”

Read more: Morrison: Fix the FOID will save lives, end backlog

Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission briefed on federal aid spending during pandemic

SPRINGFIELD – To monitor the progress of Illinois’ economic recovery, the bipartisan, bicameral Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission met with representatives from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) on Tuesday to discuss how the state is disbursing aid received through federal COVID-19 relief programs.

“Across the state, local governments, regional health departments, small businesses and residents are facing financial struggles as a result of the pandemic,” said State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines), the Senate co-chair of the commission. “Federal funding is intended to help our communities stay afloat, and it’s critical that the aid is administered carefully and efficiently to ensure that purpose is fulfilled.”

Read more: Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission briefed on federal aid spending during pandemic