Welcome to the March Newsletter!
Happy Spring!
The Spring Session continued this month and will be wrapping up in the first few weeks of April.
Below are some updates!
Fighting For You!
Statement on Speaker Madigan’s Indictment
Please see the link below for my statement on the indictment of former Speaker Madigan.
rep-haas-statement-on-madigan-indictment
Comments on Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Debt
Please visit the link below for my comments on UI Trust Fund Debt.
rep-haas-comments-on-UI-trust-fund-debt
Mental Health Services for Students
My team and I had a great meeting with Rep Ford and NAMI to discuss the need of campus mental health services for both public and private universities. This is something our students need and I am excited to be part of the conversation!
AgeGuide Virtual Advocacy Collaborative
Thank you to AgeGuide for inviting me to attend the AgeGuide Virtual Advocacy Collaborative. I learned a lot and was able to hear ideas and input about legislation that will help support our older population here in Illinois!
Women’s History Month Video
As we approach the conclusion of Women’s History Month, I thought I would share this video. It’s such an honor to serve the state of Illinois alongside all of these inspiring women and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Around the District & Under the Dome
Press Conference for Police Protection
On March 9th, a group of spouses of fallen police officers visited the Capitol and held a press conference urging the General Assembly and the Governor to pass legislation that will better support and protect our law enforcement officers. It was an honor to get to meet these women and a humbling experience to hear what they have gone through. I hope we can do everything in our power to support them, our police, and their families across the state.
Local Business Spotlight – Stefari Cafe
I’m excited to present Stefari Café as my local business of the month! They are located at 150 N Schuyler Ave, Suite 101 in Kankakee. I encourage everyone to go check them and their delicious coffee out! See the press release here!
International Women’s Day
Happy International Women’s Day! It is an honor to serve the great state of Illinois alongside each of these smart, driven, and kind women. I look forward to what the future holds!
Amtrak Train Derailment Anniversary
Our community will never forget the tragedy that took place on March 15th, 23 years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and their families. We remember and honor you.
Parent Mentor Program
Thank you to the Garden of Prayer Youth Center for inviting me to hear more about the Parent Mentor Program they offer in several area schools!
Lobby Day
March 24th was a busy lobby day at the Capitol! Thank you to all who stopped by my office to visit. It’s wonderful to see so many people visiting Springfield!
– Manteno Fire Department
– ABATE
– FFA Leadership
– IML
NABVETS Pembroke Chapter #84 Banquet
Thank you to the NABVETS Pembroke Chapter #84 for inviting me to speak at the 11th Annual Anniversary Banquet! It was a wonderful evening celebrating veterans, community leaders, and fantastic company and conversation!
Pork Producers Association Legislative Reception
This month I had the privilege of attending the Illinois Pork Producers Association legislative reception. I had a great time catching up with everyone, and I look forward to next year’s event!
Riverside Medical Center Heart Ball
We had a wonderful time at the Riverside Medical Center Heart Ball helping raise funds for cancer treatment!
State Bound: Boilers Special Olympics Team Goes to State
Best of luck to this amazing group of students!
Other Happenings
Women’s History Month
March 8th marks the beginning of Women’s History Month and a celebration of the contributions, leadership, and achievements of women across our state. Happy Women’s History Month!
Casimir Pulaski Celebration
On March 7th, each year, we celebrate the achievements of Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman who became a brigadier general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Happy Casimir Pulaski Day!
St. Patrick’s Day
Wishing everyone a happy St. Patrick’s Day!
National Ag Day
Happy National Ag Day! So grateful for the local farms and farm families in the 79th district who keep food on our tables day after day…rain, snow, or shine!
Vietnam War Veterans Day
On March 29th we paid tribute to our nation’s heroes who served in Vietnam. Thank you to our Vietnam Veterans for their bravery, strength, service, and sacrifice. On the House floor, we recognized three of our own members who served in and during the Vietnam War; Rep. Paul Jacobs, Rep. Mark Walker, and Rep. Dan Caulkins. We thank them, and all who served.
National Doctors Day
Thank you to our doctors who dedicate themselves to caring for others and for all that they do to keep our communities healthy, happy, and strong.
Rosalyn Sussman Yalow
As we conclude Women’s History Month, I would like to honor Rosalyn Sussman Yalow. She was the first American-born woman to win a Science Nobel Prize and only the second woman to win a Nobel Prize in Medicine. To all of the pioneer women out there, thank you, and keep going!
Mark Your Calendar:
- Come stop by my Spring Job Fair!
- When: Wednesday, April 20th, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Where: Knights of Columbus (187 S Indiana Ave, Kankakee, IL 60901)
- For more information visit: rephaas.com or my Facebook page!
Contact Me:
As always, I encourage you to reach out to my office to express your views and opinions on legislative matters. I promise to be approachable, accessible, and accountable. I will fight for you, your family, and your business!