Senator Don Harmon and his family have deep roots in the 39th Legislative District. Harmon was born and raised in Oak Park and remains in the community.
First elected to the Illinois Senate in the fall of 2002, Senator Harmon has promoted a progressive agenda in Springfield, one based on his profound commitment to social justice and public service.
During his time in the General Assembly, he has championed early childhood education, improving government oversight, advancing ethics reform, curbing gun violence, protecting civil rights and expanding voter access. He also has worked to protect Illinois’ natural resources, promote renewable energy and enhance economic opportunity for all.
He counts his legislation to create the Illinois Early Learning Council, which eventually led to the creation of the Preschool for All program, among his most enduring accomplishments.
In the most recent legislative session, Senator Harmon worked to find a stable, reliable source of revenue to sustain the Illinois Poison Center. The center serves a vital purpose, answering calls from panicking parents and health professionals. Because of Senator Harmon's advocacy, the center will have a stable budget through at least 2018.
In addition, Senator Harmon championed a new law to expand access to voting and make same-day voter registration a permanent option in future elections.
Senator Harmon also managed to pass a plan that will direct the state to invest $30 million in solar energy, expanding on Illinois' existing potential.
Senator Harmon is the lead sponsor of the Fair Tax constitutional amendment to allow Illinois to replace the current flat income tax with a fairer, more equitable and efficient approach to lower tax rates for lower income levels and higher rates for higher income levels. The fair tax will cut taxes for the vast majority of Illinois families, while still providing for critical services, such as education, health care and programs for senior citizens and people with disabilities.
Senator Harmon currently is serving his fifth term in the Illinois Senate. In 2011, Senate President Cullerton appointed him president pro tempore, offering him a key role in shaping policy and moving legislation through the Senate. Senator Harmon serves as chairman of the Senate's Executive Committee and co-chairman of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. He also is a member of the Senate's Assignments and Judiciary committees.
