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.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman was proud to support a measure that will put money back into the pockets of Illinois residents, by eliminating the state-imposed sales tax on groceries.

“This measure is providing relief to skyrocketing grocery prices,” said Stadelman. “By eliminating the state-imposed sales tax on groceries, we can provide financial relief to families across the state, making essential items more affordable.”

Stadelman supported the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which includes increased funding for education and the achievement of a balanced budget, ensuring continued fiscal stability for the state.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman’s legislation aimed at strengthening local journalism and supporting aspiring reporters is headed to the governor’s desk.

“Local journalism is vital for our communities, providing necessary information and holding those in power accountable,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This bill ensures that local news organizations remain transparent during critical transitions and supports the next generation of journalists.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is leading a measure to bolster local journalism by ensuring fair compensation from big tech platforms.

“Local journalism is a cornerstone of our democracy, providing essential information that keeps our communities informed and engaged,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This legislation ensures that news publishers are fairly compensated for their work, which is increasingly being utilized by large tech platforms for profit.”

The legislation, known as the Journalism Preservation Act, seeks to address the financial challenges faced by local news publishers in the digital age. It would mandate that major online platforms pay local news publishers for the use of their content. An arbitration process would be set up to determine the appropriate compensation each platform must pay to the news publishers.