According to the Illinois Farm Bureau, this award honors state and federal legislators who understand the importance of Illinois Agriculture. Recipients of this award recognize the far-reaching benefits of Illinois’ agricultural products and the importance farmers play in providing quality food, fiber and fuel for our State, Nation and World.

Senator Harris said, “It's an honor and privilege to be recognized as a proud supporter of one of the largest industries of our economy and to support working class families in Illinois.  Maintaining the America tradition of the family farms benefits the community and provides jobs which enhances the local economy.  When we buy local, we allow local farmers to receive a profit on the crops they produce, which will reduce the likelihood of losing more family farms to developers.”

DePaul University Professor Zachary Cook and students in DePaul's 'Explore Chicago' program spent time recently with Senator Harris learning about how legislation is introduced and becomes law and discussing recent legislative issues.

The students were interested in the senator's work on Senate Bill 2178, known as Rocky’s Law, a measure to provide catastrophic insurance coverage for school athletes that passed in 2013. Sen. Harris explained what happened to Rocky Clark, whose experience inspired the bill, as well as the process and challenges it took to get it enacted.

The students asked Sen. Harris about concealed carry legislation and any upcoming gun control issues in the General Assembly.

Sen. Harris enjoyed telling the students about his career, how he got involved in public service and about the specific concerns of his district.