The SBAC has a unique ability to tap the bipartisan nature of the often hyper-partisan political environment in the Illinois State Capitol. The following items are state level initiatives the SBAC is prioritizing in Springfield.
Back to Business Grant Program (HB5489) - This bill will allocate an additional $300 Million for the Back to Business grant program. Click on the link to learn more about this bill.
THE SAFER COMMUNITIES & SMALL BUSINESS ACT
Supporting Small Businesses and Formerly Incarcerated Citizens (HB3215) - A grant program for business owners who hire individuals re-entering the workforce after a period spent in incarceration.
Funding for Local Chambers of Commerce (HB4993) - Local chambers of commerce are vital to the growth of small businesses and local communities, and they are in need of support. This grant program will provide grants for local chambers of commerce with less than 1500 members that can demonstrate a loss of revenue between 2019 and 2020.
Property Tax Reform (HB0433) - A bipartisan bill to reduce property taxes in Illinois. It provides voters the opportunity to consolidate units of local government and eliminate redundancy.
Vacant Property Reform (HB4374,SB3477) - The SBAC is working with a large coalition to reduce commercial vacancies in Chicago and surrounding neighborhoods. We are advocating for legislation that would stop commercial property owners from receiving a tax break when they are not attempting to lease, sell or improve their spaces.
Funding for Intrastate Equity Crowdfunding Portal - A portal used to encourage local investment in main street businesses and commercial corridors throughout Illinois.
R.I.S.E. Grant Program (HB4455) - The Recovery Initiative to Support Employment provides businesses of 50 employees or less a grant for retraining and hiring employees to work in their small business.
