SPRINGFIELD — An economic growth package containing incentives for cutting-edge technology and clean energy manufacturing connected with the creation of new jobs in cities like Rockford cleared the Senate Sunday, thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Thanks to the REV incentive program, Stellantis is investing nearly $5 billion in the 34^th District, leading to thousands of new jobs in the Belvidere community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This package will expand on these incentive programs and update our business development tools to make sure Illinois remains competitive for jobs and new capital investment.”

The new incentives supporting the state’s manufacturing base aim to build on the 2021 Stadelman-sponsored Reimaging Energy and Vehicles Act, which made Illinois a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and auto battery production by drawing EV businesses to invest in Illinois. Manufacturing created by Stadelman’s new measure will add to the impressive array of zero-carbon technologies being developed in Illinois by adding incentives for green steel manufacturers and electric and hybrid aircraft.

The package also expands the Central, Western and Northern Illinois communities eligible for the River Edge Tax Credit — a program that gives income tax credits to project owners who rehabilitate historic buildings to revitalize riverfront communities like Rockford, Peoria and Elgin — and extends tax incentives to next-generation emerging industries like quantum computing.

Quantum computing, a complex processing technology similar to supercomputing, is exponentially faster than our current computer processing abilities. While no quantum computer yet exists, a partnership between Illinois’ top universities is currently researching pathways to create functional quantum computing technology. Stadelman’s measure would establish an incentivized enterprise zone for the creation of a quantum computing campus to be located at a site in Illinois.

“A dedicated research campus for the advancement of this technology would cement Illinois as a global leader in quantum technology, putting us on par with tech leaders like Silicon Valley,” Stadelman said. “From securing our energy grid, to developing the next frontier in aerospace capabilities, the technological advancements this measure will generate will directly benefit local taxpayers by creating good-paying jobs and long-term investments.”

House Bill 5005 passed the Senate Sunday and heads to the House for approval.