State Representative, District 2 Choose 1
The Indiana House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the Indiana General Assembly. Alongside the Indiana State Senate, it forms the legislative branch of the Indiana state government and works alongside the governor of Indiana to create laws and establish a state budget. Legislative authority and responsibilities of the Indiana House of Representatives include passing bills on public policy matters, setting levels for state spending, raising and lowering taxes, and voting to uphold or orverride gubernatorial vetoes.
Biographical Information
Twitter Handle
@Earl_Harris_Jr
Instagram Handle
www.instagram.com/earllharrisjr/
Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/EarlLHarrisJr
Campaign Website
http://earlharrisjr.us/
Campaign Email
earllharrisjr@sbcglobal.net
Campaign Phone Number
2197414058
Years in an elected position
8
Please describe what you see as the top policy challenge in Indiana and how you plan to respond to it, if elected.
Education is key. I see it as being related to so many other parts of our lives. Workforce, education, health care...and so many parts of our lives and related to education. My push has been for students to get something after high school. A certificate, 2-year degree, 4-year degree...whatever they want. Just make sure they get something to increase their skill set. I believe we, as a state, should help and support. Every year in office I have authored at least one bill related to education. This will continue. in 2023 I authored the legislation which became law making automatic enrollment into 21st Century Scholars.
How would you rate elementary education in your priorities?
Very unimportant
Somewhat unimportant
Neither important nor unimportant
Somewhat important
Very important
If elected, what would you do to promote equality in education in our elementary schools?
Quality education is a priority for me. I worked in Public Education for 20 years including mentoring students. I have and will continue to author and support legislation and initiatives related to quality education for all.
If elected, how will you work to achieve environmental justice, ensuring communities receive equitable access to clean air, water, and response to climate disasters?
An unhealthy environment is bad for all of us. We must continue to fight to ensure it is good for us now and in the future. Northwest Indiana has had many environmental issues. We continue to fight against legislation that has a negative impact on our environment.
AI (artificial intelligence) technology is the latest threat to our election process. If elected, what would you do to maintain the security and integrity of our election process?
Technology can make our lives easier, but we must make sure to put in protections to ensure it is not used in negative ways. As AI became closer to coming into play, I started having conversations with people about ideas and legislation we should consider. Also attended a panel at a conference and have done research. Continuing to learn more.
Lake County ranks lower than the state in mental health wellness, both for adults and youth. If elected, what steps would you take to improve the mental health of our residents?
Funding is key. We need more supports in place for those in need, including help to identify. Also, more conversation bringing awareness. People don't do anything about situations they do not know they need to be involved with. Legislation is needed to continue the growth of support.
What else would you like to share with us?
Thank you for your involvement in the political process. It is important to protect our democracy and increase involvement and engagement by all.