Yesterday, State Senator Emil Jones III (D – Chicago) introduced a measure to provide a $300 million supplemental appropriation to close the gaping budget hole in Illinois' child care program.

The Department of Human Services Child Care Assistance Program provides low-income, working families with access to child care, which allows parents to continue working and contributes to the development of a child.

"The suspension of this program has dealt a great deal of hardship to working families in our communities," Senator Jones said. "Families are being denied child care, and parents are afraid of losing their jobs because they have no other options."

Monday, Governor Rauner signed an executive order requiring labor unions and companies that do business with the state to report on how many minorities and veterans participate in apprenticeship and training programs.

State Senator Emil Jones III, Chairman of the Senate Black Caucus, had this to say:

"Governor Rauner's executive order to review minority contracting statistics shows his willingness to tackle tough issues facing diverse communities," Senator Jones said. "For years, members of the Black Caucus have created laws aimed at leveling the playing field for minority contractors.

"It looks as if Governor Rauner is willing to listen to our concerns and work toward establishing tangible results."