Harry Osterman
Harry Osterman is the Illinois State Representative for the 14th district, which he has served since 1999.
Public Service
Osterman began his career as an aide to 48th ward Alderman Mary Ann Smith, then he worked as a staff liaison to the Chicago Police Department and the Cook County States' Attorney’s Office. Osterman helped local law enforcement target crime-infested areas in the community.
State Representative
Harry Osterman was originally appointed as State Representative to fill the term of Carol Ronen who was elected State Senator.
Because of Osterman’s background with law enforcement, some of his major legislative accomplishments have been with public safety. He helped get tougher penalties for violent and repeat domestic abusers. Osterman is concerned with the safety of drivers, he worked to increase penalties for unlicensed drivers. He also helped the CAPS programs in the 20th and 24th police districts secure state grants. Osterman views gun control as vital to public safety and worked to make the unlawful possession of loaded weapons a felony.
Aside from public safety legislation, Osterman protected programs addressing mental illness and developmental disabilities from state budget cuts.
As a member of the Illinois House of Representatives, Osterman serves on eight committees: Appropriations-Human Services, Committee of the Whole, Elementary and Secondary Education, Financial Institutions, Local Government, Mass Transit, Paratransit, and School Code Waivers.