It's less than one week until Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for? Here at the Chamber, we are very thankful the voters approved our Lock Box Amendment to the Illinois Constitution to preserve our transportation funding. There are lots of new projects being rolled out that might be in jeopardy in a world without that amendment.
Veto Session Canceled
The Illinois General Assembly has canceled Veto Session citing the increased risk of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the numbers are alarming, undoubtably the leadership challenge to the Speaker plays an unspoken role in the decision. Throw into the mix the total lack of any actual vetoed legislation and we were faced with the perfect storm for cancellation. The General Assembly is not expected to return until the Lame Duck Session in January.
Infrastructure/Energy Council Meeting
Thank you to all who attended the first ever virtual council meeting last week. We had a great turnout and the Deputy Governor provided some great insight. Deputy Governor Mitchell said the Pritzker administration expected a 30% motor fuel tax drop (our newsletter covered this countless times this summer), however he said the drop hasn't been that bad and projects continue to finish on schedule.
Mitchell also pointed out that the Governor wants to make a push for electric vehicles. They want "to make Illinois the best state in the nation to drive electric vehicles" and have a goal of 750,000 electric vehicles in the next decade. They are looking for ideas of tax credits for both the purchase and manufacture of electric vehicles.
Finally, the deputy governor said that while the state is using all their energies to execute on the current capital bill, they are willing to look ahead to the next capital bill and are especially eager to hear any funding ideas. I'll be happy to pass along any ideas you have.
Downstate Communities get $112 Million as part of Rebuild Illinois
A few days ago the Department of Transportation announced $112 million is being awarded to 31 downstate transit providers as part of the capital bill. The grants will help to expand and improve service, providing more transportation options and promoting an enhanced quality of life in communities throughout the state.
Speaking of transit, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning recently launched a video highlighting the importance of our region's rail and addressing issues at highway-rail at-grade crossings, including traffic backups, safety, and air pollution. The video underscores strategies to improve grade crossings in the decades to come, and points viewers toward their priority grade crossings report. The Illinois Chamber sits on the CMAP Freight Committee.
Send Me Your Legislative Agenda
With Veto Session canceled, it's time to look forward to the spring legislative session. Please send us your agenda so that we can work together to develop a strategy. Email any thoughts/concerns/ideas to ckaericher@ilchamber.org
Articles of Interest
