Stadelman cites cooperation as key in $334 million in funding for Belvidere Assembly Plant

BELVIDERE – State Senator Steve Stadelman applauded today's announcement of $334 million in federal funding for the Stellantis assembly plant as another example of the multi-level leadership that's saving local automaking jobs and strengthening Illinois' clean energy economy.

"Belvidere's assembly plant, which has been a driving force in the regional economy for decades, will not only reopen but will expand because of the cooperation of state, federal and local officials and labor leaders," Stadelman said. "The historic state incentive package I sponsored and passed provided a foundation that more than rescued the idled production facility. The manufacture of electric vehicles along with a battery plant and parts distribution center will make Belvidere an EV hub and bring more jobs to support families in Boone and Winnebago Counties."

Stadelman passed the Reimaging Energy and Vehicles Act that offered tax credits and other incentives for electric vehicle production in Illinois. Today's announcement involves a $334 million grant through the U.S. Department of Energy's Domestic Manufacturing Conversion program to encourage widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

Stadelman law safeguards consumers from medical debt

• SB 2933
• Medical Debt

SPRINGFIELD – Consumers will now have protection against adverse medical debt reporting, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“We have taken a crucial step to protect our residents from the undue hardships caused by medical debt,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This is a positive step toward ensuring no one will have to suffer the long-term financial consequences of medical emergencies that are beyond their control. This law is about fairness and compassion, and it reflects our commitment to standing up for the rights of others”

The law aims to address the growing concern over the impact of medical debt on consumers’ credit scores. Medical debt, often incurred through no fault of the consumer, has been a leading cause of financial distress, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and hindering their access to credit and essential services.

Read more …

Stadelman announces state funding for Cherry Valley police

• Law Enforcement
• Firearms

Police in Cherry Valley will receive state funds to enforce Illinois laws that prohibit dangerous individuals from keeping firearms.

Cherry Valley Police can use its $11,120.03 award from the State Police Enforcement Fund to form enforcement details to focus on individuals who have become the subject of a Firearm Restraining Order, been declared a clear and present danger or been criminally convicted, among other reasons that would preclude possession of a firearm.

"We have enacted sensible laws in Illinois so that people who have made homicidal or suicidal threats or who otherwise demonstrate they pose danger to the public are not allowed to have firearms," Stadelman said. "Grants like this give local police the resources they need to enforce these important laws for keeping the public safe from gun violence."

Cherry Valley is among 21 police agencies to benefit from a third round of Illinois State Police firearm enforcement grants totaling $1.5 million.

Read more …

Stadelman economic growth bill signed into law

• Springfield

SPRINGFIELD – Thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman, a new law is on the books that aims to stimulate economic development through incentives for cutting-edge technology and clean energy manufacturing, with a particular focus on job creation in the Rockford area.

“This is a major step forward for our state’s economy,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By incentivizing high-tech and clean-energy industries, we are not only paving the way for innovative developments but also ensuring the creation of good-paying jobs for our residents.”

The new incentives will build on the 2021 Stadelman-sponsored Reimaging Energy and Vehicles Act, which positioned Illinois as a hub for electric vehicle and battery production. Last year, automaker Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment that includes a new EV product for the Belvidere Assembly plant, a battery production facility and a parts distribution center. Stadelman’s law will further advance zero-carbon technologies in Illinois by offering incentives for green steel manufacturing and electric and hybrid aircraft production.

Read more …