AURORA – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) received the Friend of Education Award on Saturday.  The award is presented by the Illinois Education Association each year to legislators who display extraordinary commitment to promoting public education in Illinois.

“I am honored to receive the Friend of Education award from the IEA,” Holmes said.  “It’s a testament to the work we have done together to ensure that every Illinois student receives a quality education.”

“Senator Holmes has been a tireless advocate for education and educators in Illinois,” IEA President Cinda Klickna said.  “We thank her for her energy and commitment to supporting and improving Illinois schools.”

Photo Caption: Al Llorens, Secretary-Treasurer; State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora); Kathi Griffin, Vice President; Cinda Klickna, President

“This proposal would curtail the potentially devastating impact of micro-beads on the environment.” - State Linda Holmes (D-Aurora)

SPRINGFIELD – Micro-beads, small, plastic spheres in personal care products, can cause serious environmental damage according to recent studies. 

A measure co-sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora), chair of the Senate Environment Committee, seeks to ban micro-beads in Illinois and reduce their environmental impact.

“Products with micro-beads can cause serious harm to fish and other wildlife,” Holmes said.  “This proposal would curtail the potentially devastating impact of micro-beads on the environment.”

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SPRINGFIELD – Bears, wolves and mountain lions could have added protections in Illinois after a measure sponsored by State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) passed the Senate today.

The legislation would add American black bears, gray wolves and mountain lions to the Illinois Wildlife Code.  These animals were native predators, but have been absent for decades in Illinois.

“It is increasingly important that we put protections in place for bears, wolves and mountain lions as they return to their natural habitats in Illinois,” Holmes said.  “This legislation ensures that indigenous species’ populations can grow to sustainable levels.  It includes safeguards for farmers who could be affected by their return.”

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AURORA – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) released the following statement on President Obama’s infrastructure plan:

“Illinois is one of the country’s central transportation hubs; investing in infrastructure projects like those the president outlined is vital.”

Click below to read more about the President's initiative:

Obama: Tax overhaul should fund transportation projects (USA Today)