Stadelman: More than $4.5 million coming to Rockford area

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) is announcing that Winnebago County will receive over $4.5 million in funding for local transportation projects through the Rebuild Illinois statewide construction program.

“This funding demonstrates the state’s continued commitment to local roads and bridges in the Rockford area,” Stadelman said. “When Rockford’s infrastructure improves, so does our local economy.”

Rebuild Illinois has allocated $1.5 billion in funding specifically for municipal- and county-level projects. Infrastructure investments improve safety, quality of life and the economy, which contributes to the revitalization of communities across the state.

Read more: Stadelman: More than $4.5 million coming to Rockford area

President Harmon applauds state and local aid in federal COVID relief package

SPRINGFIELD – Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) issued the following statement after Congress passed a $1.9 trillion federal COVID relief package: 

“I am glad to see the Biden administration recognize the need states and local governments have for relief in the face of this unprecedented crisis.

“The funds Illinois is receiving will help us distribute vaccines, support local health departments, safely reopen schools and provide direct relief to the hardest hit families.

Read more: President Harmon applauds state and local aid in federal COVID relief package

Cullerton introduces measure to waive IDFPR fees for military personnel

SPRINGFIELD – To assist military personnel and their spouses, Sen. Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park) is spearheading a measure to waive application and examination fees for professional and occupational licenses through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

“Members of our military and their families give up so much to serve our country,” said Cullerton, who serves as the chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs committee. “By waiving the fees for applications and exams for professional licenses, we hope to support them in advancing their careers outside of the military.”

Read more: Cullerton introduces measure to waive IDFPR fees for military personnel

Bush: The window is narrow for women who have young children to run – and it’s time to change that

Bush measure would allow campaign funds to be used for child care

SPRINGFIELD – Running for elected office calls for a lot of long days, late nights and busy weekends. It can be discouraging for people with children – especially single parents – to chase their desire to serve their communities.

To enable more women – and all parents – to seek public office, State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) is leading a movement to allow campaign finances to pay for child care.

Read more: Bush: The window is narrow for women who have young children to run – and it’s time to change that