Harmon encouraged by governor’s support of graduated income tax

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) released the following statement after Gov. JB Pritzker delivered his first budget address on Wednesday:

“With our state still billions of dollars in debt, it is refreshing to hear our governor highlight what’s good in Illinois and propose a budget that continues our path toward stability.

“I am especially encouraged by the governor’s support for a fair income tax. Our current flat tax is antiquated and gives us little ability to enact the kind of long-term change needed to pay our bills and reduce the tax burden on the majority of Illinoisans.

“Illinois’ financial issues will not be solved in one year or by one person, but I am committed to working with Gov. Pritzker to continue our effort to restore stability to our state.”

Harmon praises years of work to pass minimum wage increase

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) praised his colleague Senator Kimberly Lightford and advocates for their years of hard work as Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation into law that will raise the minimum wage in Illinois to $15 per hour by 2025.

“Working wages have not kept up with inflation in our state or around the country, and I am thankful to Senator Lightford and the advocates who spent years fighting for a wage increase.” Harmon said. “I am glad Illinois is a leader in the Midwest on this issue, but we must keep fighting for dignity and stability for workers.”

Senate Bill 1 will gradually raise the minimum wage from the current $8.25 per hour to $15 per hour by 2025.

The new law represents a compromise with business groups and includes a payroll tax credit to assist employers in implementing the wage increase.

Senate Bill 1 takes effect immediately.

Harmon: ‘American dream’ not a reality with current minimum wage

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) released the following statement after the Senate voted to approve legislation that will raise the minimum wage in Illinois to $15 an hour:

“Working wages have not kept up with inflation over the past several decades. The ‘American dream’ of being able to provide for a family by working 40 hours a week is not a reality with the current minimum wage.

“I am proud that Illinois is now a leader in ensuring the hard-working families in our state earn a living wage.”

Senate Bill 1 passed the Senate 39-18 and heads to the House for consideration.

Local park to receive $400,000 renovation grant

SPRINGFIELD – The Oak Park Park District will receive $400,000 to renovate Stevenson Park, State Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) announced today.

The money comes from a grant that is part of the state’s Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The program is providing more than $28 million to support 87 park projects across the state.

“Our parks are a wonderful resource, accessible to everyone in our communities,” Harmon said. “I am proud of all of the vibrant park districts in the 39th District and glad the Oak Park Park District has secured state support to continue its commitment to serve the people of Oak Park.”

The OSLAD program began in 1987 and has invested $419.4 million in 1,765 local park projects. The program receives dedicated funding from a percentage of the state’s Real Estate Transfer Tax.

For more information about Stevenson Park, visit www.pdop.org.