Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas shared updates on her recent legislative activities and community engagements. In April, she successfully passed four bipartisan bills through the House. House Bill 79 aims to protect earned annuities for retired sheriff’s officers working as school security guards. House Bill 2361 designates March as French Heritage Month annually. House Bill 2774 ensures a single, accessible phone number for domestic violence services across Illinois. Lastly, House Bill 3428 establishes semiannual joint training sessions with nursing home providers and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Haas is also the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 1195, which seeks to include trauma-informed programs in law enforcement officer training curricula. The bill has passed the Senate unanimously and awaits floor action in the House.

In community news, Haas attended several events, including ribbon cuttings for Garden of Prayer's new headquarters and Kankakee Chamber of Commerce's new location. She met with advocates from various organizations during a busy week in Springfield and engaged with students from Kankakee CEO program and Bourbonnais Upper Grade Center.

She also participated in a dedication ceremony for a Gold Star memorial created by Alexis McCullough to honor families who lost members while serving in the military. The Kankakee CEO Trade Show showcased local students' entrepreneurial skills, while Redd Remedies celebrated its 20th anniversary with a ribbon cutting.

Haas highlighted Little Me Studio in Bourbonnais as part of her April local business spotlight, praising its role in fostering child development through art-based learning.

The Women to Watch event in Springfield featured Alicia Kleinert and Nicole Gavin, both recognized as leaders within their community. Kleinert leads MCA Adult Day Care, while Gavin directs Visit Kankakee.

A pet adoption event is scheduled for May 17 at Kankakee County Animal Control. Additionally, constituents are encouraged to participate in Haas's 2025 Legislative Survey to provide input on policy issues.

Upcoming events include office hours in Monee and Park Forest throughout May.