IDHS Shares Resources as SNAP Work Requirement Rules Change in 2026
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is sharing updated information and resources for SNAP recipients as new federal policy changes take effect in 2026. Under the updated federal rules, the definition of Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) has expanded. Previously, it applied to adults ages 18–54 with no disabilities and no children under 18 […]
Warm Neighbors Cool Friends Offers Energy Bill Assistance
With Illinoisans across the state seeing increases in their energy bills, Ameren is partnering with the Energy Assistance Foundation to offer in-need ratepayers with additional support through the Warm Neighbors Cool Friends program, which provides bill payment support for eligible households across Ameren Illinois’ service territory. According to the Foundation, thousands of Illinois families struggle […]
Senator Harriss: Governor’s New Energy Law Makes Power More Expensive, Less Reliable
State Senator Erica Harriss (56th–Glen Carbon) issued the following statement after the signing of SB25 the “Energy Omnibus” Bill into law: “With the governor’s signature, Illinois is moving further down a path that makes energy more expensive and less dependable for families and small businesses. This law removes important protections that helped keep utility bills […]
Senator Harriss Collecting Valentine’s Card’s for Seniors Across the 56th District
State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is inviting the community to help put a smile on the faces of local seniors this Valentine’s Day! She is encouraging students, scout troops, churches, families, and community groups to create heartfelt, homemade Valentine’s Day cards for residents in long-term care and assisted living facilities across the 56th District. […]
Part 2: New Laws Taking Effect January 1, 2026
In the second part of our series, we highlight new laws that focus on supporting farmers, environmental changes, improving business practices, laws impacting public safety across Illinois and more. Helping Tomorrow’s Farmers Individuals seeking to enter Illinois’s top industry of agriculture and farming will receive valuable assistance through Senate Bill 2372 (P.A. 104-0146). This law […]
Part 1: New Laws Taking Effect January 1, 2026
As Illinoisans prepare to ring in the New Year, 392 new laws are set to take effect on January 1, 2026. These new laws cover a wide variety of topics, including policies that impact students, enhance educational opportunities, improve public health and healthcare access, support veterans, and more. Below is a summary of some of […]
IDNR Accepting Applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants through February 16th. The federal funds are passed through the IDNR to local fire departments and training academies to help purchase essential equipment, including radios, fire hoses, wildland protective equipment, hand tools, and chainsaws. The funding also helps cover […]
Senator Erica Harriss: A look back at 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, I want to pause and say thank you. Thank you for trusting me to be your voice in Springfield and for sharing your stories, concerns, and hopes for our community. Serving you has been a great honor, and this past year has reminded me why our work matters so […]
Senator Erica Harriss to Host January Listening Sessions
State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) will host a series of Listening Sessions in January to provide residents of the 56th District an opportunity to meet one-on-one with the Senator and share their concerns, ideas, and feedback. “Meeting directly with the people I serve is the best way to understand the issues that matter most […]
Senator Harriss Statement on newly signed Chicago Transit Bailout
State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) has released the below statement following the signing of Senate Bill 2111 on Tuesday: “Taxpayers were promised Rebuild Illinois dollars would fix roads, bridges, and water systems- not bail out Chicago. Today’s transit bill breaks that promise. “Metro East families sit in traffic on crumbling roads while Springfield raids […]