Baking Good Legislation
On August 27, Governor Pritzker signed into law the Home-to-Market Act. The Home-to-Market Act allows producers of home-based food products to sell their goods directly to customers. This new law goes into effect on January 1, 2022. This will foster the growth of home-based entrepreneurs, known as the cottage food businesses.
Prior to the passage of the Home-to-Market Act, cottage food producers were only allowed to sell their products at farmer's markets. They were prohibited from selling at fairs or festivals, and online. Compared to other states, Illinois has one of the most restrictive regulations governing the cottage food industry. This new act will open the door for a vast increase in sales and provide cottage producers the opportunity to start or grow their businesses. The Home-to-Market Act comes at the perfect time as many of these home-based food businesses and farms were hit hard by the pandemic. During the pandemic, many farmer's markets delayed their openings, leaving cottage food producers unable to sell their products. The new bill will especially benefit women-owned businesses, as 77% of cottage food businesses are owned by women.
The SBAC is a strong advocate for home-based businesses. Check out our most recent win regarding HBBs.
BLOCK CITY CHICAGO REPORTS on Commercial Corridor Revitalization
BLOCK CITY CHICAGO REPORTS HYDE PARK, WOODLAWN, SOUTH SHORE Some Landlords Keep Their Storefronts Empty For Years – And Get Tax Breaks For It. Business Leaders Want To Change That Small business advocates want to limit the tax breaks property owners can get on vacant storefronts. On 79th Street, three in five storefronts were vacant…
Funding For Local Chambers of Commerce
HB4993 -> 1 Pager & Endorsements Chamber Relief Grant Program Local chambers of commerce provide important support and services to small businesses. They connect small businesses to potential customers and play a pivotal role in fostering commerce in local communities. However, many chambers have been devastated by the pandemic. For that reason, we are asking…
Occupational Licensing Reform
Occupational Licensing Reform Occupational licenses are often necessary to protect the safety, health, and welfare of the public. However, when these licenses are revisited by legislators, it is important they have accurate and unbiased information before determining whether and how to maintain such a license. Regulatory Sunset Review – HB5576 This legislation amends the Regulatory…
