Bipartisan Illinois Future of Work Task Force launches, tackling workforce challenges ahead

Gov. Pritzker, Democratic and Republican leaders convene government, labor movement, business leaders to confront seismic shifts in economic environment

CHICAGO (September 28, 2021)--Convened by Gov. JB Pritzker and Democratic and Republican legislative leadership and powered by a bold agenda to confront unprecedented challenges facing Illinois’ workforce in the coming decade, the bipartisan Illinois Future of Work Task Force held its first meeting today at Olive-Harvey College on Chicago’s South Side. The 26-member panel includes leading employers, economic thinkers, and representatives from the labor movement. It is chaired by State Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and State Rep. Marcus Evans (D-Chicago), with a mission over the next nine months to analyze major economic shifts and emerging technologies, and prepare policy recommendations that help the state to combat the worsening crisis of poverty, inequality, and climate change.

The task force is charged with issuing its findings in a report for the Illinois Legislature identifying the main problems facing workers and businesses of the future, and outlining proactive policy solutions to keep Illinois ahead of coming economic trends.

“We are proud to see this bipartisan, diverse task force convening and ready to take on the challenges ahead. This task force is the first of its kind in the Midwest, and the first in the country to address the future of work in the wake of the pandemic and its impact on our economy,” said Harish I. Patel, Director of Economic Security for Illinois, which spearheaded the effort to convene the task force. “This task force puts the future of Illinois’ workforce in capable hands.”

Task force members were appointed by legislative leaders from both political parties. The 26 members and 2 co-chairs were appointed by Gov. Pritzker, Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Lake Zurich), House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch (D-Westchester), and House Minority Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs).

“The future of work is now; and working people across Illinois are counting on us to create an economy that works for everyone,” said State Senator Ram Villivalam, a co-chair of the task force. “Our team on the Future of Work task force is laying the foundation for 21st Century jobs to continue to grow, while fighting for dignified working conditions for all.”

Read more …

Job seekers invited to meet and interview with local employers at virtual job fair

CHICAGO – State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago), State Rep. Denyse Stoneback (D-Skokie) and Alderperson Debra Silverstein (D-Chicago) are partnering to host a virtual job fair next week.

“Finding long-term employment remains a challenge for many people in the wake of the pandemic,” Villivalam said. “All our neighbors are welcome to attend this free job fair to meet and interview with local employers actively seeking talent.”

Workforce development partners, including Illinois workNet, the Illinois Department of Employment Security and Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, will be available to assist applicants in small group settings. Different employers will join the event each day, so applicants are encouraged to participate on both days. A current list of participating employers can be found at the registration page below.

WHO: State Senator Ram Villivalam, State Rep. Denyse Stoneback, Alderperson Debra Silverstein
WHAT: 50th Ward Virtual Job Fair
WHEN: Sept. 13-14, 2021 from 10 a.m. – noon each day
WHERE: Interested participants must register online at 50thwardjobfair.eventbrite.com

Villivalam: Illinois leads fight against climate change with Energy Transition Act

­SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) released the following statement on the passage of House Bill 18, the Energy Transition Act:

“The Energy Transition Act is the strongest clean jobs plan in the nation, and I am proud to have voted in support of this legislation.

“This comprehensive package expands our renewable energy portfolio to make Illinois a leader in the fight against climate change. It sets bold decarbonization goals that prioritize the health of all Illinois residents, including those most affected by environmental injustice, and creates grant programs so working people in the energy sector experience a just transition to a good-paying job in clean energy.

“Climate change remains one of the greatest threats to our nation. I am honored to have voted for this plan as it will make Illinois a leader in clean energy and protect the planet we call home.”

Gov. Pritzker Signs Law Protecting Workers’ Right to Organize and Strike

Chicago, IL – “Our union applauds Governor Pritzker for protecting workers’ rights by sighing HB2521,” said Dian Palmer, president of SEIU Local 73. “We especially thank Senator Ram Villivalam (D-8) and Representative Edgar Gonzalez, Jr. (D-21) for championing this bill. Our thanks also go to the Illinois AFL-CIO, AFSCME Council 31, and the Illinois Federation of Teachers for working with us to pass this important legislation.”

"Protecting the right to strike is essential to the survival of the labor movement," said State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago). "Our plan will protect our brothers and sisters from retaliation in the workplace as they advocate for a living wage, decent benefits and better working conditions. I am proud to have championed this vital legislation."

Read more …