Stadelman passes 2nd round of major electric vehicle incentives

Just a year after adopting historic tax incentives to lure electric vehicle manufacturers to Illinois, State Senator Steve Stadelman yesterday passed additional incentives including one designed to help automakers already in Illinois -- such as the Stellantis assembly plant in Belvidere -- to retool their operations.

The legislation, approved Wednesday in the Senate and Thursdsay in the House, expands last year's Reimagining Electric Vehicles Act by giving manufacturers greater ability to ramp up production of EV parts and more flexibility as the market evolves. The expansion also increases the credit available against incremental income tax attributal to retained employees, among other provisions.

Stadelman sponsored both this week's expansion and the original REV legislation in 2021 to offer tax credits and job training for automakers and EV parts suppliers that relocate to Illinois.

"Green transportation is the future, and the REV Act put Illinois at the forefront. These added incentives we're now sending to the governor to sign into law sweeten the pot," Stadelman said. "EV transformation is good for the environment and keeps and attracts good jobs statewide and locally."

Boat docks mark 1st step in Stadelman-championed Davis Park makeover

Boaters on the Rock River will be able to dock at Davis Park, eat and drink at Embassy Suites and return to the water when docks are installed next spring with funds secure by State Senator Steve Stadelman.

Work is expected to be complete by June 2023, now that Rockford City Council has approved a $461,227 contract with Sjostrom & Sons to replace the existing sea wall and concrete sidewalk along the riverfront, install hand railing and floating docks, among other improvements. The project represents the first phase of upgrades resulting from Stadelman's efforts to secure a $3.5 million Rebuild Illinois grant.

"I can't wait to see Davis Park reach its full potential as an outdoor entertainment venue and provide deserved synergy for the important public investment made to transform the abandoned Amerock factory into a popular, upscale hotel, Stadelman said. "Engaging gathering spots elevate our quality of life and help drive economic development."

A private donation established Davis Park as a bare-bones festival grounds three decades ago on what had been an industrial site, but full redevelopment never occurred. Future components of the new revitalization plan include a skatepark, splashpad, native garden and outdoor concert plaza with a canopy stage.

General Assembly moves to ban investments in Russia

Lawmakers gave final approval this week to a bill prohibiting the investment of state funds in Russia. If signed by the governor, the proposal would require the state divest or withdraw any existing investments in Russian banks and companies and ban future investments.

The bill also requires state colleges and universities to disclose endowments and donations from Russian companies, gives the Illinois Department of Human Services added authority to address Ukrainian refugee resettlement and creates tasks forces to investigate Russian money laundering in Illinois and to recommend safeguards against Russian interference in Illinois elections.

State Senator Steve Stadelman noted the legisation received unanimous support in both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly "as show of solidarity against Russia's unconscionable invasion of and ongoing military aggression in Ukraine."

Support entrepreneurs from across the Prairie State this season

Find gifts for everyone on your list by shopping the 2022 Illinois Made Holiday Gift Guide. From gourmet chocolates to handcrafted canoes, there's something for everyone.
 

Don't miss 'Get Covered' online forum next week!

Understanding health insurance can be a complicated and frustrating process for families. That's why State Senator Steve Stadelman is partnering with Get Covered Illinois and the Illinois Department of Insurance to present a virtual town hall to explain the options available through the AffordableCareAct marketplace.

WHAT: "Finding the Best Health Care For You and Your Family"
WHEN: 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6
WHERE: State Senator Steve Stadelman’s Facebook Live

The forum will include time for a question-and-answer session. Open enrollment under the ACA began Nov. 1 and end Jan. 15, 2023.