Nationwide and Illinois Department of Labor Event to Promote Health and Safety Programs in the Workplace

AURORA – Illinois State Senate Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora), who chairs the Senate Labor Committee, is joining with the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to promote health and safety programs during Safe and Sound Week, August 9-15.

The annual August event recognizes successful health and safety programs, and offers information and plans to keep workers safe on the job.

SPRINGFIELD – Presently, homeowners’ insurance policies are allowed to place limitations based on discrimination against certain dog breeds or mixes. Discrimination in all forms is suspect, and Senator Linda Holmes’ (D-Aurora) bill to restrict this practice was signed by the governor Friday.

“When you have a dog and need to move, it can be difficult to find a place that may allow your breed of dog,” Holmes said. “Humane organizations have been fighting these breed stereotypes for years, and this moves the ball forward to make pet ownership and housing more compatible.”

SPRINGFIELD – To prevent families from having to give up beloved pets to find affordable housing, Assistant Majority Leader Linda Holmes’ (D-Aurora) measure was signed by the governor Friday. It will allow tenants to keep two cats or a dog, regardless of breed, size or weight, in their residence.

“Eighty-one million American households now share their homes with 173 million dogs and cats,” Holmes said. “Regardless of their income, people love their pets and view them as members of the family. Affordable housing should be accessible for all types of people, and that includes people with pets.”

Aurora, Ill. - Assistant Senate Majority Leader Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) has released the following statement after hearing the news of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka passing today:

“I’m saddened to hear of President Trumka’s untimely passing, and my heart is not just with his immediate family but also with the millions of working people throughout the U.S. who have lost his leadership and his advocacy for them.

He was a legendary powerhouse who devoted his entire career to making life better for all those engaged in keeping this country moving forward. I will remember him and his tremendous influence on the American labor movement.”

Holmes serves as the Chairperson of the Senate Labor Committee.