A pandemic that began beyond our shores made its way to the Heartland. When we kicked off 2020, that’s hardly the reality we imagined we would face before meetings turned virtual, celebrations were postponed and masked social distancing became our new normal. In times of crisis, we turn to family. So, when Congress readied a response, my focus remained on putting Illinois families first. One of the first relief bills I passed out of the House provided free testing, meals for kids, unemployment insurance and paid sick leave. And when the pandemic hit, and 13 Illinoisans from our region were stuck abroad, I’m proud my office helped them return home to reunite with loved ones.