ROCKFORD – Illinois taxpayers can expect to see up to $700 in tax rebates in the coming weeks thanks to the State Senator Steve Stadelman-supported Illinois Family Relief Plan.

“Many families are feeling financial struggles as we continue to heal from the pandemic, and this financial aid will help to eliminate this stress,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “Along with my colleagues, we passed a comprehensive plan to ensure Illinois residents receive relief and help them get back on their feet.”

Supported by Stadelman, the Illinois Senate championed Senate Bill 157, which provides millions of Illinois taxpayers with financial relief – including direct tax rebates.

Under the law, people who filed 2021 Illinois taxes are eligible to receive up to $700. Individual filers who make less than $200,000 will receive a $50 income tax rebate, and couples who make less than $400,000 will receive $100. Filers are also eligible for $100 per dependent, with a maximum of three. 

ROCKFORD – To promote economic welfare and ensure area residents are continuously able to bounce back from the pandemic, Rockford will see over $290,000 in relief grants thanks to the support of State Senator Steve Stadelman.  

Through the Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery (RISE) program, Rockford will see grants to help local governments and economic development organizations create or update economic plans to promote economic recovery.

“Funding our local government bodies allows them to continue to support families and businesses around the community,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “These grant funds help develop and implement plans to address the pandemic’s impact on our communities and provide meaningful steps forward for families and businesses alike.”

The Region 1 Joint Planning Commission will receive $148,916 and the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau will receive $150,000 to promote and spur economic growth within the community through RISE Grants.

ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman was appointed to the High-Speed Railway Commission to assist in the creation of a statewide plan for high-speed rail and feeder networks across Illinois.

“I am honored to be appointed to the High-Speed Railway Commission and continue to push for better, safer railways throughout the state,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford) “This commission is responsible for coming up with a solid plan for high-speed rail in our state and I look forward to working with my fellow commission members to help Illinois move forward with plans that can help our communities thrive.”

The High-Speed Railway Commission is responsible for creating a statewide plan for a high-speed rail line and feeder network connecting St. Louis and Chicago that includes current existing Amtrak and Metra services, connects the cities of Rockford, Moline, Peoria, and Decatur, and uses inter-city bus service to coordinate with the rail line.

ROCKFORD – The Harlem Hills Nature Preserve has received a grant to support stewardship and enhance natural green spaces thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“This is a direct investment into our community that will make it a more vibrant place to live,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford).

The goal of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grant program is to increase the delivery of much needed stewardship activities to natural areas permanently protected by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Stewardship needs at natural areas throughout Illinois have continued to outpace the ability to deliver these services by individuals, volunteers, organizations and government agencies. The grant program is designed to fund projects that address this deficiency through grants that will expand their staff and equipment for these activities.