SPRINGFIELD, IL – Seeking to address one of his top priorities, State Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) yesterday passed his first bill, Senate Bill 565, to create the Illinois Early Learning Council. 

“The success of the Collaboration for Early Childhood Care and Education in my district was the basis for this bill,” Harmon explained.  “In creating the Illinois Early Learning Council, we will be able to coordinate local, state and federal resources to expand early education on the state-wide level.”

Voices for Illinois Children, the Day Care Action Council of Illinois, Ounce of Prevention, Metropolis 2020, and other groups concerned with early childhood issues worked with Harmon on developing the legislation. 

The Governor and the four leaders of the General Assembly will appoint the members of the Council who will serve on a voluntary and uncompensated basis, and must reflect regional, racial, and cultural diversity.  The Council will report to the Governor and General Assembly annually on its progress towards its goals and objectives.

Having passed the Senate the bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration, where Representative Deborah Graham (D-Chicago) will be the lead sponsor.