Representative Jan Schakowsky, Democratic from Illinois

Jan Schakowsky

Representative Jan Schakowsky

Jan Schakowsky began her career as a consumer advocate, working to improve food labeling and public health standards. Elected to represent Illinois’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1998, she has focused on expanding access to health care, protecting seniors, and advancing workers’ rights. Schakowsky played a key role in authoring provisions of the Affordable Care Act and serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. She is known for her persistent advocacy and collaborative approach, ensuring that the concerns of her diverse district are heard in national policy debates.

Education

  • B.A. in Elementary Education, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
    (1965)

Professional History

U.S. Senator

(1999-Present)

Representing Illinois in the Senate

Member, Illinois House of Representatives

(1991–99)

Executive Director, Illinois State Council of Senior Citizens

(1985–90)

Program Director, Illinois Public Action

(1976–85)

Consumer Advocate

Policy Focus Areas

Health40%
Commerce20%
International Affairs8%
Environmental Protection4%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Jan Schakowsky's record in Congress.

Affordable Care Act Advocacy

Played a key role in drafting and passing the Affordable Care Act to expand healthcare coverage.

Consumer Product Safety

Championed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act to strengthen protections against unsafe children's products.

Nursing Home Reform

Authored legislation improving transparency and quality standards in nursing homes through the Nursing Home Reform Act.

Social Security Protection

Introduced and supported legislation to prevent Social Security privatization and strengthen program benefits.

Committee Assignments

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  • House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Rep. Jan Schakowsky FAQ

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