News

The Illinois Senate recently hosted former Illinois First Lady Brenda Edgar as we paid homage to her late husband, former Gov. Jim Edgar.

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon's (D-Oak Park) statement on the passing of former House Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie.

“Barbara Flynn Currie was a larger-than-life figure at the Capitol and a giant in Illinois government. She was a leader, a mentor, a fighter and a bit of a character. A pragmatic progressive before such labels existed, she brought preparation and purpose to everything she did.

She was both intellectually intimidating and remarkably kind. In leadership, she was often the one to tell people no. She did it with a smile and a sparkle in her eye. Barbara had that enviable Irish gift: she could tell you to go to hell and make you look forward to the journey.

Immensely intelligent and a joy to be around, she possessed a wit few dared test and arguably none ever bested.

Those who had the privilege to work with her are forever better for having known and experienced the tour de force that was Barbara Flynn Currie.

Her influence will be felt for generations in the leaders she inspired, the trails she blazed and the stronger, more inclusive state she helped build.

We honor her life and legacy. Godspeed, Barbara Flynn Currie.”

It was a pleasure to welcome students from Southern Illinois University’s Paul Simon Public Policy Institute to the Capitol for the recent Women’s Civic Day.
This annual program highlights the important role women play in public service and helps inspire the next generation of leaders to get involved and make a difference.
https://paulsimoninstitute.siu.edu/intiatives/womens-government-day.php

Grateful for the thoughtful conversation and encouraged by the talent and commitment these students bring to Illinois’ future.
Paul Simon Public Policy Institute

Southern Illinois University Carbondale
#WomenInLeadership #NextGeneration

Villanueva honors farmworkers and Dolores Huerta

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Celina Villanueva led two resolutions through the Illinois Senate to honor the legacy of farmworkers and uplift one of the most influential labor leaders in American history. The measures designate March 31, 2026 as Farmworkers Day and April 10, 2026 as Dolores Huerta Day in Illinois.

“Farmworkers have long carried this country on their backs while too often being denied the protections and recognition they deserve,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “As the granddaughter of a Bracero worker who came to this country during and after World War II to work in our fields — and as a proud Latina — I’m honored to help ensure their sacrifices and contributions are seen, valued and remembered — not just in words, but through the policies we fight for every day.”

Read more.

Senate Democrats display support to end Alzheimer's

SPRINGFIELD — Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus joined advocates to raise awareness for the needs of those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia by wearing purple.

“Diseases such as Alzheimer’s and other memory conditions have a devastating impact on communities across our state, affecting patients, their loved ones, and caregivers alike,” said State Senator Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet). “Wearing purple today was a reminder of the Senate’s commitment to raising awareness, offering support, and investing in the resources healthcare providers need to treat the disease, find a cure, and end the suffering.”

Read more.

Holmes measure updates prosecutors' options to charge phone and electronic harassment offenders

SPRINGFIELD — In Illinois, law enforcement officers and prosecutors who charge suspects accused of harassment are seeing options to update the law to reflect today’s technology. State Senator Linda Holmes filed legislation to reflect the realities of how offenses are being committed in present day.

“The means to harass someone continues to expand from phones to electronic devices, offering platforms on which to send demeaning, frightening messages,” Holmes (D-Aurora) said. “Emails, social media, forums and gaming are being used by those intending to cause emotional distress to the recipient, so laws need to be amended to address each offense separately.”

Read more.

In case you missed it

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Senator Christopher Belt, Swansea: IL Senate passes bill allowing not-for-profit fire departments to receive state grants | WAND

Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, Shorewood: IL Senate committee approves bill expanding menopause treatment, improving healthcare provider education | WAND

Senator Doris Turner, Springfield: IL Senate passes bill increasing awareness of ag education programs | WAND

Copyright 2026 - Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus - All Rights Reserved

Harmon working with state leaders to figure out next moves in wake of sudden West Suburban closing announcement

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon was surprised and disappointed by the sudden announcement that West Suburban Medical Center is cutting off patient care. He is working with the governor’s office and state agency leaders to find a new facility for its patients.

Here’s President Harmon full statement:

“Our first priority is getting the patients safely relocated to other facilities.

Representative Lilly and I are doing everything we can to make sure that we retain a significant health care facility that serves the community’s needs.

While West Suburban’s problems have been well documented, I was surprised by the sudden announcement. We’d been working to try to prevent this very situation.

I’ve been in touch with state agency leaders and the governor’s office about next steps for the patients, the good folks who work at the hospital and overall community.

West Suburban has long been a mainstay in our community. Our youngest daughter was born there, and I made more than a few visits to the ER when I was a boy.

This is a sad day.”