Dear Friend,

I hope you and your loved ones are staying well. Many families are struggling with remote learning, altered routines and disrupted traditions.

But we’ll get through this tough time together. If you, your household or your business is in need of assistance, I encourage you to explore the resources I’ve included below to see if you might benefit.

You can also contact my office with questions and concerns by calling 708-848-2002 or visiting www.donharmon.org. My staff and I are ready to help.

Please keep yourself safe and healthy, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Senator Don Harmon

Senate President | 39th District

Helping small businesses reopen safely

The Illinois Department of Labor has launched Back to Business Illinois, a free service to connect small businesses with consultants who will help them create a customized plan that promotes a safe, healthy and productive environment for workers and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is completely voluntary and non-punitive—it’s designed to empower Illinois small businesses to continue operating safely. For more information on the Back to Business Illinois program, visit the official website: www.illinois.gov/worksafe

Supporting struggling tenants and homeowners

Several utility companies have voluntarily extended the moratorium on disconnections until March 1, 2021 for eligible low-income residential customers, and those who self-report to utilities that they are experiencing financial or COVID-19 hardship. Additionally, the state-issued moratorium on evictions has been extended, and if you applied for the Emergency Rental Assistance program, you will receive an update on your application status before Nov. 10, when full disbursement of funds is expected.

Providing flexibility to Illinois motorists

The Illinois Secretary of State has implemented new policies to allow drivers to stay safe and avoid long lines and crowds at the DMV. Drivers age 75 years and older automatically have their driver’s licenses extended by one year; the new expiration date is their birthday in 2021. All other licenses and IDs have been extended to Feb. 1, 2021. Vehicle registrations will expire Nov. 1 and can be renewed online, along with duplicate license and ID requests, plate replacement, and more at www.cyberdriveillinois.com.

Advocating for survivors of sexual assault

The Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Services has launched CheckPoint, a secure online tracking system that allows sexual assault survivors to monitor the progress of evidence taken in their cases at every step of the way, from collection to the State’s Attorney’s office. Any survivor who seeks a forensic medical exam at a health care facility that has implemented the CheckPoint system (about 86% of facilities offering sexual assault treatment plans) is now able to track the progress of their evidence. The CheckPoint system is available here.

Preparing unemployed Illinoisans for in-demand jobs

The State of Illinois has partnered with Coursera to offer virtual career training to unemployed workers. Using an Illinois workNet account, job seekers can register for free courses in high-demand fields like information technology from top institutions—such as the University of Illinois—to learn new skills, earn certificates and make themselves more attractive to employers. More than 3,000 residents have enrolled, and over 430 classes have been completed since June. Register here by Oct. 31.