Small businesses see relief thanks to Loughran Cappel

JOLIET – Over 50 businesses across Will and Kendall Counties were awarded a combined $1.8 million in funding from the Back to Business program thanks to advocacy and support from State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel.

“Small businesses bring so much life to our community and programs like Back to Business have been vital in helping them get back on their feet,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I’m pleased to see so many businesses take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”

A total of $1.8 million was awarded to 56 businesses in the 49^th District. The B2B grants are awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity using funds allocated to them by the American Rescue Plan through last year’s state budget.

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Illinois Senate Democrats applaud new law that will strengthen pensions and save taxpayer money

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Senate Democrats applaud a new law, which will extend the pension buyout option for state employees to 2026. The bill will strengthen pensions and save taxpayer money.

“The savings generated by the pension buyout program is a big point of pride for me,” said State Senator Robert Martwick (D-Chicago). “I am glad that we put aside our different ideas and worked together to find a bi partisan solution for the state’s most persistent and crippling financial problem. When Democrats and Republicans work together on these core financial issues, every Illinoisan benefits.”

The new law, formerly known as HB 4292, will ensure fiscal responsibility and reduce overall liability costs placed on taxpayers. It follows the inclusion of an additional $500 million contribution to the retirement systems in the last two state budgets.

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Ellman, Glowiak Hilton and Villa bring more than $21 million to DuPage County for water reclamation

DuPage Co., Ill. – Thanks to advocacy from State Senators Laura Ellman, Suzy Glowiak Hilton, and Karina Villa, the DuPage County Department of Public Works is set to receive more than $21 million in infrastructure funding for two local water reclamation facilities.

“Water is one of our most precious natural resources, we have to make sure we treat our local rivers and streams with care,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “These funds will help us update our facilities to ensure wastewater going back into the DuPage River and other local streams isn’t hurting our environment.”

The funds come from the Illinois EPA's State Revolving Fund Program, which includes the Water Pollution Control Loan Program and the Public Water Supply Loan Program. These programs provide low-interest loans to fund wastewater, stormwater and drinking water projects.

Read more: Ellman, Glowiak Hilton and Villa bring more than $21 million to DuPage County for water reclamation

Munoz attends Police Memorial in Springfield to honor fallen officers

SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) attended the Illinois State Police Officers Memorial in Springfield to pay tribute to fallen officers and their families.

“Honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice is a small gesture to show our support for their families,” Munoz said. “As a former Chicago police officer, the memorial serves as a reminder of the oath police officers take. They protect and keep our communities safe with their bravery, strength and courage.”

Read more: Munoz attends Police Memorial in Springfield to honor fallen officers