New Initiative Encourages Residents to Explore Historic Sites
Illinois is preparing for the nation’s 250th anniversary with the launch of a new “America 250” passport program, designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore historic sites across the state. The program highlights significant locations tied to Illinois’ role in American history, including cultural landmarks, museums, and heritage sites. Participants can visit featured locations […]
Senator Harriss Introduces Foster Care Tax Credit to Support Illinois Families
State Senator Erica Harriss recently introduced Senate Bill 2097 in the Senate Revenue Committee, a measure aimed at providing financial relief to foster families across Illinois through a new foster care expense tax credit. “Foster families open their homes and their hearts to children who need stability and support,” said Senator Harriss. “This is a […]
Senator Harriss and Representative Elik to Host FREE Community Shred Event and Clean Up Day in Wood River
In recognition of Earth Month, State Senator Erica Harriss and Representative Amy Elik are inviting residents to take part in a FREE Community Shred Event and Clean Up Day on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Wood River Police Department parking lot (550 Madison Ave., Wood River, IL — […]
Opinion: Not Every Good Policy Shows Up as a Check, But It Still Matters to Your Wallet
By State Senator Erica Harriss When people think about tax relief, they usually think about something they can see: a check, a refund, or a lower bill. But not all tax relief shows up as a check in your mailbox or a deposit in your bank account. Families across Illinois are feeling the strain of […]
Senator Harriss Introduces Measure to Protect Taxpayers from Solar Cleanup Costs
As large-scale solar developments continue to expand across Illinois, State Senator Erica Harriss is working to make sure taxpayers aren’t left paying the price when those projects are damaged, abandoned, or reach the end of their lifespan. Senate Bill 3953 would require companies seeking to construct commercial solar facilities to secure a surety bond before […]
Senator Harriss Introduces Measure to Restore Policy Allowing State to Recover Incarceration Costs
State Senator Erica Harriss has introduced legislation to restore a policy allowing the State of Illinois to recover incarceration costs from inmates when appropriate. Senate Bill 3958 reinstates language previously removed from state law that allowed the Illinois Department of Corrections to pursue reimbursement for incarceration expenses on a case-by-case basis when incarcerated individuals have […]
Senator Harriss Introduces Bill to Ensure Lawmakers See the Cost of Legislation
State Senator Erica Harriss has introduced legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in the Illinois legislative process by ensuring lawmakers have access to fiscal impact information before voting on legislation. Senate Bill 2094 amends the Illinois Fiscal Note Act to guarantee that when a member of the General Assembly requests a fiscal note on legislation, the […]
Senator Erica Harriss Introduces Bill to Create Illinois Pediatric Cancer Fund
State Senator Erica Harriss (56th–Glen Carbon) has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening research efforts to help fight childhood cancer and improve outcomes for young patients across Illinois. Senate Bill 3954 would create the Illinois Pediatric Cancer Fund, a special fund within the State Treasury Department dedicated to supporting research, prevention, and treatment efforts related to […]
Senator Harriss Introduces Legislative Package to Provide Relief to Struggling Homeowners
Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran and State Senator Erica Harriss presented legislative solutions to help make buying and staying in a home more affordable in Illinois. Last year, first-time home buyers dropped to a record low of 21 percent of total purchases, while the average age of first-time buyers climbed to an all-time high […]
Senator Erica Harriss: Affordability Is Not a Slogan
The Senate has returned to Springfield for the Spring Legislative Session. After several weeks of filing legislation, we are now moving into the committee process to debate and advance new proposals this session. A few weeks ago, the Governor delivered his annual State of the State and Budget Address, outlining his priorities for the year […]