Simmons fights for struggling families with new Child Tax Credit proposal

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons continued his fight for more funding for struggling families, during a press conference he attended with State Representative Marcus C. Evans Jr. and the Economic Security Project on Tuesday, Feb. 7.

“Working parents are struggling worse than ever before. It is time for the state to create a permanent Child Tax Credit that puts money back into the pockets of parents in Illinois, so that parents can take care of their children and communities can begin to recover,” said State Senator Mike Simmons (D- Chicago). “I am so proud to stand with this broad and diverse coalition of organizations and parents today to call for a permanent Child Tax Credit.”    

Senator Simmons discussed legislation that will create a child tax credit, making Illinois one of the few states to have a state-level child tax credit.

Read more: Simmons fights for struggling families with new Child Tax Credit proposal

New Cunningham law promotes sustainable energy

SPRINGFIELD – With a looming power shortage on the grid, Illinois received a major boost to its renewable energy sector thanks to a law sponsored by State Senator Bill Cunningham.

“There is an energy shortage in Illinois right now, and it is causing uncertainly, which leads prices to spike and potentially future brownouts,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislation will help solve that problem by expanding renewable energy opportunities.”

The law aims to relax restrictive zoning regulations that have slowed wind and solar energy projects to a near stop in Illinois. Without this measure, the state would lose 17,000 construction jobs and over $8 billion in economic impact during construction.

Read more: New Cunningham law promotes sustainable energy

Sims leads sound fiscal decisions resulting in payoff of Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Debt

CHICAGO — State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. — the Senate’s chief budget negotiator — led efforts that allowed Illinois to repay the remaining $1.36 billion unemployment insurance Trust Fund debt.

“This plan was the right thing to do for businesses, labor organizations and everyday Illinoisans,” said Sims (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I want people to know that if they need temporary help providing for their families, no matter the reason, Illinois has their back.”

The payment was made possible after a historic agreement was reached between the state, and representatives from business, labor, and bipartisan members of the General Assembly. Smart spending decisions and balanced budgets of recent years led by Sims put the state on track to be able to make the payment.

Read more: Sims leads sound fiscal decisions resulting in payoff of Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Debt

Turner secures nearly $6 million for Decatur transportation improvements

DECATUR – With the strong support of State Senator Doris Turner, the city of Decatur will receive nearly $6 million to improve transportation as part of the historic Rebuild Illinois capital program.

“Infrastructure investments are vital to expanding downstate transportation needs,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have seen remarkable improvements through the Rebuild Illinois capital program. Expanding Decatur’s transit campus, buying additional buses and installing solar panels on the bus barn will increase accessibility for residents to get around town.”

Read more: Turner secures nearly $6 million for Decatur transportation improvements