Chamber’s advocacy efforts pay off for Quad Cities region in 2019

The Chamber is committed to advocating for public policies that enhance our economic competitiveness, benefit our members and increase investment in the Quad Cities region.

This year in Iowa and Illinois we advocated for workforce readiness, a strong business climate and infrastructure needs. Workforce was our top issue in Des Moines and Springfield. At the federal level we advocated for issues that ensure the Rock Island Arsenal remains a leader in defense and strengthens our economy.  

Working collaboratively with our partners and elected officials in Iowa and Illinois, the Chamber helped secure funding in both states to advance several regional priorities. 

2019 successes in Iowa

• Protected economic development incentives
  • This marked the first session in four years Tax Increment Financing (TIF) was not under attack
  • TIF is a tool used to attract and retain expanding businesses in our area
• Increased workforce development and equitable K-12 education spending
  • The Iowa Legislature appropriated $13 million for Future Ready Iowa, which connects Iowans to the training and education required for good paying jobs and careers
  • Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) was extended through 2050
  • The law extends the penny sales tax for school infrastructure to Jan. 1, 2051, which is projected to generate $26.2 billion between now and then
  • Money received for school infrastructure purposes also may be used for school district property tax relief

2019 successes in Illinois

• Rebuild Illinois capital infrastructure bill dedicated $45 billion to state projects
  • Secured $225 million for the completion of the Quad Cities-to-Chicago passenger rail service
    • This funding will allow for track upgrades to begin once the Illinois Department of Transportation and Iowa Interstate Railroad reach an agreement 
      • Federal Railroad Administration granted a six-month extension through November for an agreement to be finalized; another extension is being requested
  • Western Illinois University received $9 million for Phase 3 of construction at the WIU-Quad Cities campus
    • This will allow for expansion of the School of Engineering, which will serve as the physical location for the Center of Manufacturing and Entrepreneurial Excellence, part of the Illinois Innovation Network
• East Moline Food and Beverage Tax
  • Worked on eliminating the 2% increase

At the federal level we are continuing to monitor issues related to appropriations and the National Defense Authorization Act involving the Rock Island Arsenal. As one of our largest employers, the Arsenal contributes $1.2 billion annually to our region.

Over the years the success of the Chamber’s advocacy efforts has been driven by the strength of our members collectively advancing our region’s priorities. In September members were invited to complete a survey to guide our advocacy efforts in 2020. Our priorities for next session will be released in January. 

If you have any questions about the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, please contact Government Affairs Director.