In this special report from the WVLI News Update, host Rob West sits down with 79th District State Representative Jackie Haas for an in-depth discussion on the key issues facing Kankakee County and the state of Illinois.

Rep. Haas provides her perspective on the recent fall veto session in Springfield, explaining why a lack of action on certain bills—like those proposing new taxes to fund Chicago—can be a positive sign of ongoing negotiations.

A major focus of the conversation is the dangerous intersection at Route 50 and County Line Road. Following more tragic fatalities, Rep. Haas details her work with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to implement a temporary four-way stop by the end of the year, with a permanent traffic light planned for the future.

The discussion also covers:

• Local Control: The fight to return authority for siting solar and wind farms back to local governments like Kankakee County.
• Constituent Concerns: The daily struggles residents face with the rising cost of living, high taxes, and the need for a more transparent state budget.
• Legislative Process: How her advisory committees and constituent feedback directly shape the bills she files in the legislature.

Stay informed about what's happening in your community and in Springfield. Find out how you can contact Rep. Haas and make your voice heard on these critical topics.

Timestamps:

• (0:20) - Recap of the Fall Veto Session
• (1:04) - Discussion on Proposed New Taxes for Chicago
• (1:46) - Update on the Dangerous Intersection at Route 50 & County Line Road
• (3:33) - The Fight for Local Control Over Solar & Wind Farm Siting
• (5:05) - Top Concerns from Constituents: Taxes & Cost of Living
• (5:54) - How Constituents Can Propose New Legislation
• (6:59) - How to Contact Representative Jackie Haas