Williams Begins New Term with Economic Development, Healthcare and Public Safety on the Agenda

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –  As state Rep. Jawaharial ‘Omar’ Williams, D-Chicago, prepares to begin his term as a member of the 104th Illinois General Assembly, he is starting off with a laser focus on improving access to health care, increasing economic prosperity and making safer communities.

“I am excited to once again serve alongside my brilliant colleagues in the House, and even more so to start working on the solutions that address many issues facing our hardworking communities today,” said Williams. “People are hurting, facing tough times and uncertainty from a variety of forces, and it is our responsibility to ease that hurt and uplift those who need it the most.”

Williams was sworn in on Wednesday as a returning member of the 104th Illinois General Assembly. During the 103rd , Williams repeatedly stood up for working families by supporting measures that lower the cost of prescription drugs, expand access to quality health care and bolster support for the heroic law enforcement officers that keep our communities safe.  He also led efforts to address the West Side’s rising opioid epidemic, with a measure that requires concert venues and other businesses to maintain a supply of Narcan.

This year, Williams is chiefly focused on combatting the forces that threaten economic prosperity for Illinoisans such as lack of investment, poor transportation infrastructure and the rising costs of living and education.

“When I was growing up, I was told that college was the ticket into the middle class and the American Dream. Unfortunately, inflation, globalization and other forces that no one person can control have steadily eroded that American promise of opportunity for years,” said Williams. “I will always continue to listen to and support our residents by fighting for impactful policy that addresses our state’s needs with candor, compassion and community in mind.”

Williams represents the 10th House District, which consists entirely of neighborhoods on Chicago’s West Side.