Joyce proposal will maximize federal dollars for broadband expansion

SPRINGFIELD – A measure introduced by State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) to increase Illinois’ ability to capture federal funding for broadband under the federal Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act was signed into law on Tuesday.

“Bringing access to internet to every citizen in Illinois is crucial,” Joyce said. “This initiative helps Illinois capture up to $1.6 billion in federal dollars to expand broadband services.”

The intent of this legislation is to bring more legislative oversight and allow for public input on where best to allocate broadband funding. Joyce put forth the proposal earlier in session, which was then put in the final BIMP bill.

Read more: Joyce proposal will maximize federal dollars for broadband expansion

Crowe: Illinois to implement 10-day back-to-school shopping tax holiday this fall

MARYVILLE – Working families and teachers will see lower back-to-school shopping costs this fall, thanks to a new law supported by State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon).

“As a nod to our working parents, guardians and teachers in Illinois, lowering the tax rate on school supplies removes a burden when preparing for the academic year,” Crowe said. “It is my hope that by instituting a tax holiday, we can help relieve families and educators of some financial costs in order to prepare students for the upcoming school year.”

The law lowers the state tax rate on clothes and school supplies from 6.25% down to 1.25% for 10 days from Aug. 5 to Aug. 14, 2022.

Read more: Crowe: Illinois to implement 10-day back-to-school shopping tax holiday this fall

Hastings’ new law will provide financial relief to working families

CHICAGO – Families across the South Suburbs and the state will soon receive financial relief, thanks to a law championed by State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

Hastings (D-Frankfort) sponsored Senate Bill 157, a bipartisan financial relief package to provide Illinois residents with comprehensive assistance.

“This new law puts money back in the pockets of homeowners and families in the South Suburbs,” Hastings said. “We are slowly recovering from the most severe public health crisis that our state, country and world has seen in the last century. It is crucial that we prioritize families by providing them with much-needed and deserved relief to keep growing Illinois’ economy.”

Read more: Hastings’ new law will provide financial relief to working families

Holmes supports effort to assist law enforcement officers

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) strongly supported the Illinois Senate Democrats’ package of initiatives aimed to support law enforcement officers and improve the state’s criminal justice system.

“Law enforcement officers risk their personal safety and lives to keep our families and neighbors safe,” Holmes said. “I’m proud to support a plan to offer additional protections and ensure they have the necessary tools to address rising crime rates.”

Read more: Holmes supports effort to assist law enforcement officers