Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas recently concluded the 2025 Spring Legislative session, highlighting both challenges and successes. The session saw the passage of an unbalanced budget and last-minute bill approvals. Despite these hurdles, grassroots efforts helped defeat the Homeschool Act and a proposed delivery tax.

Haas criticized the FY26 budget for its lack of balance and increased tax burden on Illinois residents. "Another year, another budget filled with gimmicks and tax hikes on hardworking Illinoisans," she stated. She emphasized the need for diverse ideas in drafting budgets to ensure fair representation for all citizens.

In June, several community events are planned by Haas' office. A blood drive will take place on June 6 at the Bourbonnais Municipal Center Community Room, encouraging residents to donate blood in partnership with the American Red Cross.

The annual job fair is scheduled for June 11 at Knights of Columbus in Kankakee. Employers such as Nucor Steel, PACE, and Riverside Healthcare will be present alongside workshops on resume writing and interview preparation.

A shred event is set for June 14 at Clock Tower Building's back parking lot in Kankakee. Attendees can also contribute donations to Georgie’s Closet by providing unopened diapers.

An open house celebrating Haas' new district office location will occur on June 18 from 2 PM to 6 PM at Suite 110, 187 S Schuyler Avenue in Kankakee.

The summer reading program returns this year, inviting students from Kindergarten to fifth grade to read ten or more books before August 15. Participants will receive an invitation to an ice cream party upon completion.

Haas participated in various community activities around her district including attending Memorial Day services and welcoming Miss Kankakee Teen Alexis McCullough to Springfield as a page for a day.

She also attended events like the Illinois Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial & Medal of Honor award ceremony and spoke at the Grundy Economic Development Council’s legislative breakfast discussing state issues such as budgeting and energy policy.

The May local business spotlight recognized The Lush Vine in Kankakee for its contribution as a social space offering wine culture experiences.