Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas of Illinois’ 79th District provided updates to her constituents in her November newsletter, highlighting recent legislative activity, local events, and community initiatives.

Haas described the late-night legislative session on Halloween, during which several bills were passed by the Democratic majority. She expressed opposition to these measures, stating: "$2.5 billion Chicago transit bailout, including millions stolen from our road improvement lockbox fund. Another 'green' energy package that will only lead to less reliable and more expensive energy. More restrictions around immigration enforcement, which only creates dangerous situations for law enforcement and our communities." She added, "I proudly voted no on all of these bad policies. We should be tackling property tax reform, lowering energy costs, and addressing the cost-of-living crisis. Instead, Illinois Democrats voted to make all of those problems worse for working families."

Haas also announced that the next legislative session would begin in early 2026 and encouraged constituents to reach out with any questions or concerns.

The newsletter promoted the upcoming 40th Annual Fill the Bus Toy Drive scheduled for November 29 at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Bradley. Residents are invited to donate new, unwrapped toys for distribution by local organizations.

In her October Local Business Spotlight section, Haas featured Vaughn Outlet in Kankakee. She commended the Vaughn family for their resilience in reopening their store after a brief closure and maintaining its legacy as a family-run business focused on affordability.

Haas recapped various community events attended by her office over the past month. These included Halloween celebrations such as Trunk or Treat events in Monee, Bradley, and Kankakee; participation in the NAACP Annual Gala; attendance at a candlelight vigil hosted by Harbor House during Domestic Violence Awareness Month; and engagement at a Women in Networking Luncheon organized by the Kankakee Chamber of Commerce.

Other highlights included attending groundbreaking ceremonies for University Park Logistics Center and Monee Fireman’s Park; recognizing Riverside Healthcare Physical Therapy Center's grand opening; joining discussions with IDOT District 3 officials about constituent concerns; supporting students at Boilermaker Fall Games at Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School; collaborating on a prescription drug take-back event at Hippocrates Medical Center; participating in municipal update sessions with the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce; celebrating local milestones such as Optical Edge’s ribbon cutting and Lynne Nofke’s retirement from Limestone Township Library District.

Additionally, Haas noted receiving recognition from the Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities for her support of policies benefiting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Constituents are reminded that they can request free Museum Resource Cards through Haas’ office for access to Chicago museums. Upcoming district events include Monee Office Hours on November 12 at Village Hall and another opportunity to participate in the Fill the Bus Toy Drive later this month.

Haas was elected as a Republican representative to serve Illinois’ 79th House District beginning in 2020 after succeeding Lindsay Parkhurst.

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