SPRINGFIELD - State Senators Mike Halpin and Patrick Joyce announced a new era of bipartisanship on two key Senate committees. Halpin, chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, and Joyce, chair of the Senate State Government Committee, both announced that a Republican senator will join them as a co-chair on each committee.

"I am proud to announce that Senator Dale Fowler will be joining me as co-chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee," said Halpin (D-Rock Island). "Working together across party lines, I am confident that we can make real progress on important issues facing our state's higher education system, such as access and affordability."

"I am excited to have Senator Sally Turner join me as co-chair of the Senate State Government Committee, “said Joyce (D-Essex). “By coming together as Republicans and Democrats, we can find common ground and work toward solutions that benefit all Illinoisans."

This unprecedented move toward bipartisanship on Senate committees demonstrates the commitment of Senators Halpin and Joyce to finding common ground and working together to address the challenges facing Illinois.

"In these divided times, it is more important than ever that we come together and find ways to work across party lines," said Halpin. "I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this effort on the Senate Higher Education Committee and I am eager to work with Senator Fowler to make a real difference for our state."

"By working together, we can achieve meaningful reforms that will make our state a better place for everyone,” said Joyce. “I am honored to have the opportunity to have a Republican co-chair the Senate State Government Committee and I look forward to working together to get the job done."

This new era of bipartisanship on Senate committees is a testament to the dedication of Senators Halpin and Joyce to finding solutions and working together to make Illinois a better place for all its residents.

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