- While per diem and expense reimbursements expired on April 19 -- the 100th day of session -- negotiations on remaining legislation is expected to continue in both chambers.
- We do not expect much floor debate until the House and Senate reach an agreement.
- The Senate has yet to pass any FY23 budget bills.
Illinois General Assembly concludes session; negotiations continue in Iowa House and Senate
April 20, 2022
Illinois
The spring session of the Illinois General Assembly concluded April 9. As a member of the Chambers All In for Economic Recovery Coalition, the Quad Cities Chamber remained active and engaged in all activities around our platform throughout the session. We celebrate the successes we achieved and recognize that advocacy is a process. We commit to continue our work to elevate the state’s business community in the weeks to come.
Here is an update on some the priorities we advocated for:
- Utilize American Rescue Plan Act monies to replenish the unemployment trust fund and alleviate the impending financial drain on Illinois businesses
- A new law allows $2.7 billion in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to be used toward the $4.5 billion Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund deficit. Replenishing this fund was our highest priority this session and we continually informed legislators of the importance of doing so for business recovery. While we advocated for the entirety of the remaining ARPA funds to be used for this purpose, we recognize that $2.7 billion is a critical step toward reducing the burden on businesses.
- This action was coupled with SB157 to extend the deadline that would trigger higher taxes and reduced benefits for the unemployed. If this amendment is signed into law by Governor J. B. Pritzker, the deadline would be Jan. 1, 2023, allowing additional time for negotiation on behalf of businesses.
- Provide legal protections to employers who follow established CDC safety guidelines from claims that COVID-19 was contracted at the place of business
- While this item failed to gain traction, we remain committed in our call to protect business owners.
- Restructure the incremental phase-out of the Minimum Wage Credit to allow small businesses to capture the original intent of the credit
- HB 5320 would have allowed small businesses to take advantage of more significant credit amounts through its phase-out in 2025. The coalition secured 16 sponsors for the legislation through our advocacy and brought it to a subject matter hearing in committee. Unfortunately, the bill did not get incorporated into a larger package but we will continue work on this issue.
- Extend the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) tax credit sunset clause for another 10 years and use it as an incentive to attract new businesses and allow for the expansion of existing companies.
- We are grateful that Gov. Pritzker acknowledged the need to renew this credit in his February budget address. The General Assembly agreed and extended the program for another five years.