Supporting Small Businesses
My 100% voting record reflects my unwavering support of small business owners. As a former small business owner, I fully understand that small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities and serve as the economic engine of job creation.
Thank you to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) for exposing the fact that the majority party does not support small business growth and innovation.
35 Illinois Legislators Achieve a 100% Voting Record from NFIB
Small Equipment Firefighter Grants
Calling ALL fire departments!!!!!
The Illinois State Fire Marshal is currently accepting applications for the Small Equipment Grant. Grants of up to $26,000 are being provided for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. There is $4 million available for the current funding cycle.
Applicants are reminded that they must be NFIRS compliant for the past TWO years to be considered.
Applications MUST be postmarked or electronically submitted to the office by October 1st, 2024.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office will host open “office hours” on the web in the coming weeks to assist departments with their applications.
Please reach out to my office by email at tipsword@ilhousegop.org or by phone at (815.844.9344) if you have any questions OR would like a letter of support. We are happy to assist ANY way that we can!
Grants and Loans (illinois.gov)
Agriculture Update
Illinois’ first crop yield forecast for 2024 is out. Here’s what is expected for corn, soybeans, and winter wheat crops across the state.
USDA releases first crop yield forecast for 2024 in Illinois | WJBC AM 1230
Back To School Safety
It’s back to school season and that means you’re likely to see kids, families, and busses out and about on your regular commute. Keep safety in mind and remember to slow down near bus stops and school zones.
AAA gives Illinois drivers safety tips as kids go back to school (wifr.com)
The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans: Keep kids safe as they head back to school
Estate Tax Reform
96% of Illinois farms are family-owned and we’d like to keep it that way. We can help farm families keep their land and livelihoods for generations to come by reforming Illinois’ estate tax.
Estate tax still a pressing topic in Illinois legislature | Local News | advantagenews.com
Property Taxes
The typical Illinois homeowner now pays roughly $5,055 in property taxes, more than double the national average. These high tax rates place an unfair burden on Illinois families who are already contending with the rising costs of essentials. We need to do more to provide relief for our residents so they can thrive here in Illinois.