AROUND THE DISTRICT
Congratulations Ali Gibbs!
Ali Gibbs, a sixth-generation farmer from Benson, has been recognized by the Illinois Soybean Association as a Top 20-under 40 farmer. Ali continues to carry on her family legacy, which began in 1854, alongside her husband, Nathan. In addition to growing corn and soybeans, Ali’s farm raises chickens and sheep. Ali is very involved in policy efforts, working with the Illinois Farm Bureau and state representatives on initiatives like the Family Farm Preservation Act.
I was honored to nominate Ali for this special recognition, and I also want to congratulate her on being a national awardee too. Next spring, Ali will travel with a national delegation to embark on a trade mission to Egypt. Travelers on this important mission will get to learn and witness first-hand the important role U.S. soy products play in that country, along with understanding ways for future growth in the market.
Learn more at these links:
Top 20 Under 40 Farmer: Ali Gibbs
ISA Announces 2025 20 Under 40 Award Recipients | Illinois Soybean Association
20-under-40 | Illinois Soybean Association
SAFE-T ACT
Democrats’ cashless bail experiment has endangered public safety across Illinois. It’s time to repeal the misguided SAFE-T Act and hold criminals accountable. Learn more here: Woman Burned Alive After JB Pritzker Said Cashless Bail Would Keep Cities Safe
If the Governor is truly open to changing the SAFE-T Act, Illinois House Republicans have a number of bills ready to go that can help fix this misguided law. Learn more: Governor Pritzker says he is open to amending SAFE-T Act | WCIA.com
NO TAX ON TIPS
Tipped workers hoping to get a break under the “No Tax on Tips” rule are out of luck in Illinois. The state has opted out of the new federal provision and will continue to collect a state tax on tips. House Republicans put forward a number of bills this year to stop taxing tips in Illinois and provide some relief to our residents.
Unfortunately, Democrats refused to stand up for tipped workers. Learn more: Illinois rejects federal ‘no tax on tips’ rule, keeps state tax on tipped income | Illinois | thecentersquare.com
REAL ID
Air travelers in the U.S. without a REAL ID or another accepted form of ID will be charged a $45 fee beginning in February. Here’s what you should know. U.S. air travelers without REAL IDs will be charged a $45 fee – Chicago Sun-Times
The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is trying to make it easier to obtain a REAL ID. Learn more here: As TSA Sets $45 Fee for Travelers Without Real ID, DMV ‘Supercenter’ Extended Through 2026 | Chicago News | WTTW
AGRICULTURE
Pre-enrollment for the popular “Fall Covers for Spring Savings” program opened this week across Illinois. Pre-enrollment opens Wednesday for Illinois cover crop insurance incentive – Brownfield Ag News
PORK INDUSTRY
Did you know that Illinois is one of the top pork-producing states in the nation? You could say that pig farmers “bring home the bacon” for Illinois. Thank you to all our Illinois pork producers for strengthening the economy and driving rural development across the state.
Illinois pork generates more than $373M in total tax revenue
EDUCATION
The Illinois State Board of Education will hold virtual listening sessions starting in January to allow for public comment on the agency’s proposed overhaul of the state’s accountability system for schools. Illinois pushes back vote on new school accountability system – Chalkbeat