Elected to the Illinois Senate in 2006, State Senator Linda Holmes brings nearly two decades of experience as a successful small business owner and community volunteer to the General Assembly. Holmes’ business-conscious perspective and determination to improve her community have helped state government reaffirm its commitment to protecting the well-being of Illinois citizens.
Senator Holmes’ time as a community activist has allowed her to experience first-hand the challenges facing the people of Illinois. Since entering public service, Holmes has worked diligently towards getting our fiscal house in order and finding ways to encourage business growth and streamline business development here in Illinois. She sponsored several measures aimed at increasing government efficiency during 2017 and supported the government consolidation provision of the grand bargain. She also joined the Legislative Audit Commission to investigate waste, fraud and abuse in state government while also maintaining local control.
Holmes argued for a continuation of an important local redevelopment tool. A major redevelopment of the St. Charles Hospital in Aurora took a historic property in the 42nd Senate District that had fallen into disuse and has since been renovated it into a new senior housing facility. The project was possible through the use of the River Edge Redevelopment Zone program. The program was extended to allow for more such revitalizations of local history.
Holmes stood up for the rights of patients and consumers by sponsoring legislation that would require health insurance companies provide for an adequate number of health care specialists within their insurance network so that policyholders never have to choose between paying out-of-network costs or traveling great distances to get proper care.
She has been recognized by the Illinois Environmental Council as one of the staunchest supporters of the environment in the Senate. She was named Legislator of the Year from the Illinois chapter of the United States Humane Society for her animal welfare legislation concerning research dogs and cats.
