Belt plan to provide tax credit for volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – A measure spearheaded by State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) that would help recruit more volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel by providing an income tax credit passed the Senate Wednesday.

“Many communities rely on volunteer fire departments when they are in a crisis,” Belt said. “These fire departments across Illinois are struggling with a shortage of firefighters and EMS personnel volunteers.”

Senate Bill 3027 would provide a $500 income tax credit for volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel who are a member or work for a fire department or fire protection district for at least nine months and do not receive more than $10,000 for their volunteer services during the taxable year. Current law does not provide a tax credit. Other states that offer a similar credit include New York, Iowa and Maryland.

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Koehler advances measure encouraging Illinoisans to purchase vehicles manufactured in-state

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) aimed to encourage people to invest in cars and small trucks manufactured in Illinois advanced out of the Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday.

“Encouraging consumers to purchase vehicles that are manufactured in-state is a simple and effective way to support our statewide economy,” Koehler said. “By offering an economic incentive for vehicles made in Illinois, we can make the decision easy when it comes down to purchasing in- versus out-of-state cars.”

Under Senate Bill 3609, Illinoisans purchasing cars or passenger trucks will have the opportunity to apply for a $25 rebate on the title fee if the vehicle was manufactured in Illinois.  The application for title must occur within one year of the month the vehicle was manufactured.

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Senator Stadelman works to streamline protective orders process

MEDIA ADVISORY — SPRINGFIELD — Survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault often face immense pressure when taking the courageous step to file an order of protection against their abuser.

To give survivors a safer, more comfortable way to file for a protective order, State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) is leading a measure to allow people to request such documentation through virtual means. He will discuss how it will impact survivors at a press conference Wednesday.

“The weight of trauma a survivor carries becomes detrimental as they struggle to cope with grief and take the steps necessary to begin to heal,” Stadelman said. “By giving survivors an opportunity to file for protective orders at their own pace in the safety of their own home, we are giving them the keys to move forward.”

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Joyce stresses grain bin safety

Grain Bin Safety Week is February 20-26

KANKAKEE – To prevent fatalities on the farm during the busy harvest season, Senate Agriculture Committee chair Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is joining officials in reminding farmers and farm workers to be cautious when working in and around grain bins.

“There is a responsibility that comes with living in a rural area, we have to continue to take care of friends and neighbors” Joyce said. “With delayed emergency response times, it is crucial to review all safety precautions.”

While essential to Illinois’ harvests, grain handling equipment and storage containers can quickly become dangerous. In 2020, Illinois Fire Departments responded to a nation leading 12 rescue incidents at Illinois grain bins and elevators.

Read more: Joyce stresses grain bin safety