IL HR1358

Former Illinois State Representative Harold A. Katz passed away on December 6, 2012, at age 91.

Served 18 years in the Illinois House of Representatives beginning in 1965 as an at-large member and representing Chicago's northern suburbs in the 1st District from 1967 to 1983.

Renowned labor attorney who practiced for over 50 years, founded the law firm Katz and Friedman in the 1950s, and authored 2 major law books and numerous professional articles.

As legislator, championed budget reforms, accessibility laws for disabled persons, criminal law updates as active Judiciary Committee member, and created the Commission on the Organization of the General Assembly.

Received the Laureate Award from the Illinois State Bar Association in 2001 and served in all three branches of government including as legal counsel to Governor Otto Kerner and master-in-chancery in Cook County.