“Supporting our 911 system and emergency communications network is one of the most important investments we can make in public safety,” said Senator Harriss. “This grant will help Madison County continue providing dependable emergency services while ensuring our first responders have the resources they need to serve residents effectively.”

The ETSB oversees and maintains Madison County’s enhanced 9-1-1 system, connecting residents with police, fire, and emergency medical personnel when they need help most. The new facility will provide long-term operational stability and support future technology upgrades as public safety needs continue to evolve.

Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser thanked Senator Harriss for her efforts in securing the state funding.

“Senator Harriss has consistently been a strong advocate for Madison County and understands the importance of investing in infrastructure that serves our residents every day,” said Chairman Slusser. “Her leadership in securing this grant funding will help strengthen a critical public safety asset while reducing costs to local taxpayers.”

In addition to enhancing emergency communications capabilities, the project is expected to support ongoing economic development efforts in downtown Wood River. The presence of county employees and visitors at the facility will increase activity in the area, helping drive foot traffic and supporting local businesses as the city continues its downtown revitalization efforts.

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“One of the most important parts of our job is providing helpful services and resources to the people we represent,” said Senator Harriss. “Events like this free shred day are just one way our offices can give back and help residents safely protect their personal information at no cost.”

“We’re pleased to bring this free event to Pontoon Beach,” Rep. Elik stated. “I hope that residents will take this opportunity to get rid of some documents you’ve been holding on to that need secure disposal. See you in Pontoon Beach!”

Event details are as follows:

Saturday, June 27

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

3 Regency Parkway, Granite City

To participate, simply drive to the location where staff will assist.

Questions can be directed to Rep. Elik’s office at elik@ilhousegop.org or 618-433-8046.

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“People are frustrated, and they have every right to be,” said Senator Jason Plummer. “Families are paying more for electricity, more at the gas pump, and more in property taxes, yet many feel like Springfield isn’t listening. That’s why these town halls matter. We work for the people of Illinois, and they deserve answers, transparency, and a government that focuses on their priorities instead of political agendas.”

The event provided constituents with an opportunity to hear directly from their state senators about legislative activity in Springfield and ask questions on a wide range of topics. Discussion focused on rising energy costs, the state’s motor fuel tax, increasing property taxes, education policy, and the legislative process in Springfield.

“We greatly appreciate everyone who took the time to attend and participate in the conversation,” said Senator Harriss. “These town halls are an important way for us to hear directly from the people we represent and provide transparency about the decisions being made in Springfield.”

Both Senators would like to thank the Edwardsville Gun Club for hosting the event and expressed their appreciation to Paul and the club staff for their continued hospitality and support.

Residents who were unable to attend are encouraged to contact either legislative office with questions, concerns, or requests for assistance with state government matters.

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This fun-filled community event will feature a variety of activities for children and families, including touch-a-truck, face painting, a foam party, balloon art, free food, and much more. The Kids Fair is designed to bring families together for a morning of entertainment, exploration, and community engagement.

The event is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to stop by, enjoy the activities, and connect with local organizations and community resources.

For additional information, visit senatorericaharriss.com/event/kidsfair2026.

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Attendees will have the chance to hear directly from both senators about the work completed during the spring session, ask questions about state government, and share feedback on issues important to their communities. The town hall is intended to encourage open dialogue and ensure residents have access to information about decisions being made at the state level.

Senators Plummer and Harriss encourage residents to attend and participate in the discussion. The event is free and open to the public and will be held at the Edwardsville Gun Club.

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“Our firefighters and first responders work tirelessly to protect our communities, often operating with limited budgets and resources,” said Senator Harriss. “These grants help ensure departments have access to the equipment they need to respond effectively to emergencies and keep both residents and emergency personnel safe.”

The grants are part of a statewide initiative that awarded $6 million to 260 fire departments, fire protection districts, and EMS providers to assist with the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment.

Departments receiving grant funding in the 56th Senate District include:

• Village of East Alton Fire Department – $14,634
• Alton Fire Department – $18,452
• Granite City Fire Department – $25,988.38
• Long Lake Volunteer Fire Department – $25,827.48
• Roxana Fire Department – $26,000
• Village of Maryville Fire Department – $26,000
• Hamel Fire Protection District – $25,000
• City of Wood River Fire Department – $25,000
• Godfrey Fire Protection District – $20,260
• Glen Carbon Fire Protection District – $23,622
• Village of Bethalto Fire Department – $16,244
• O’Fallon Fire Department – $26,000
• Fairview Caseyville Township Fire Protection District – $24,000
• Village of Fairmont City Fire Department – $26,000

The Small Equipment Grant Program was created to help fire departments and nonprofit ambulance services address equipment needs that can be difficult to fund through local revenues alone. Grants of up to $26,000 are available for the purchase of essential small equipment that supports emergency response operations.

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The $7,320 grant will provide reimbursement for eligible equipment purchases and firefighter training expenses.

“Strong volunteer fire departments are vital to public safety in communities across Illinois,” said Senator Harriss. “Support for training and equipment helps ensure our firefighters are prepared to respond when residents need them most.”

The Volunteer Fire Capacity Grant Program provides reimbursement for up to 50 percent of approved project costs, with a maximum reimbursement of $10,000 per recipient.

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“Across our district, families are working hard to keep up with rising costs. Every month brings new challenges as people make careful decisions about how to stretch their paychecks. They deserve a state government that approaches their tax dollars with the same level of responsibility.

“I had hoped this budget would reflect that discipline and care. Unfortunately, it does not.

“This is the largest budget in state history, continuing a pattern of spending growth that has outpaced what many Illinois families have seen in their own household budgets. At a time when people are already feeling the strain of inflation, rising energy costs, and property taxes that climb year-after-year, this plan fails to provide meaningful relief.

“A budget that truly puts affordability first would have started with the everyday pressures facing families, seniors, and small businesses. Instead, this plan asks taxpayers to shoulder the burden of even more government spending.

“I voted no because I’m standing with the people I serve. They deserve a government that respects their hard work, lives within its means, and puts their family’s stability at the center of every decision.”

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House Bill 2137 requires local governments that already maintain a public website to post information directing residents to where audit and financial reports can be accessed through the Illinois Comptroller’s Office.

“Taxpayers deserve easy access to information about how their local governments are operating financially,” said Senator Harriss. “This bill strengthens transparency and public confidence by making important financial reports easier for citizens to find and review.”

The General Assembly also passed House Bill 4385, which allows eligible veterans and military honorees to receive a second set of military specialty license plates under the same terms as the first set.

“This legislation is a simple way to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans,” said Representative Schmidt. “Many veterans own more than one qualifying vehicle, and this bill ensures they can extend that recognition to a second vehicle.”

Both bills now head to the governor’s desk for consideration.

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State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) is inviting students across the 56th Senate District to participate in her district-wide art contest celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States of America.

The contest is open to students in 1st through 8th grade and encourages young artists to showcase their creativity while reflecting on what makes America and their communities special.

“This contest is a fun way for students to share their creativity and celebrate the story of our country,” said Senator Harriss. “I can’t wait to see the creative ideas students from across the district come up with as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday together.”

Students are encouraged to create artwork inspired by what makes America special to them, including their communities, state symbols, freedom, nature, landmarks, farming, voting, and more.

Contest guidelines include:
• Open to 1st–8th grade students attending schools within the 56th Senate District
• Artwork must not exceed 8 x 10 inches
• Acceptable media include markers, oil pastels, and mixed media
• Each submission must include the student’s name, school name, and art teacher’s name

Artwork submissions are due by June 18, and winners will be selected on July 4. Winning artwork will be framed and displayed at Senator Harriss’ District Office.

Artwork may be submitted by email to pbuente@sgop.ilga.gov or mailed/dropped off at the district office located at: 120 North Main Street, Suite 1B, Edwardsville, IL 62025.

For questions or to confirm participation, contact Paige Buente at pbuente@sgop.ilga.gov or call 618-307-5789.

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