Illinois State Representative Jackie Haas announced on Mar. 13 her March 2026 newsletter, sharing legislative updates, community outreach plans, and information about the recent tornado that affected the Kankakee area.
The newsletter addresses ongoing recovery efforts following severe storms and a tornado earlier in the week that caused significant damage to homes and businesses in the community. Haas said, “There has also been one confirmed death, which is absolutely heartbreaking for our community.” She added that she has been working with Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), local law enforcement, and other organizations to assess damage and plan next steps. “My thoughts and prayers are with every family who has been impacted by this storm. This will be a long recovery for our community, but I know we will rebuild through the strength and the generosity of our people. We will all get through this together,” Haas said.
Haas also provided legislative updates from Springfield, noting that February was slow due to canceled committee meetings but anticipated more activity as the House Bill Committee Deadline approaches on March 27. She referenced last year’s defeat of a homeschool bill in committee thanks to grassroots efforts across Illinois and encouraged constituents to stay informed about potential new legislation via her Facebook page.
The newsletter highlighted economic development issues such as proposed legislation aimed at keeping the Chicago Bears football team in Illinois after Indiana passed an infrastructure bill supporting a new stadium in Hammond. Haas said she hopes for a solution that balances fiscal responsibility with economic growth: “This topic is challenging, as we all want to keep the Bears in Illinois, but don’t want to do it at the expense of taxpayers. I do hope we find a common-sense consensus before the end of session that prioritizes fiscal responsibility and develops our partnership with major industries that will bring economic development for years to come.”
In addition to legislative matters, Haas recognized local businesses like 5 Star Wings in Kankakee for their contributions to the community and shared details about recent events attended throughout District 79—including ribbon cuttings, fundraisers, luncheons, and award ceremonies.
Haas concluded by inviting residents to upcoming office hours in Monee on March 25 and Park Forest on March 26. She encouraged constituents needing assistance or wishing to participate in state government processes—such as submitting witness slips or attending hearings—to reach out directly.
Haas was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 79th House District in 2020, succeeding Lindsay Parkhurst according to available records.
