Koehler measure would strengthen Illinois’ arts industry

SPRINGFIELD – To help strengthen the creative arts economy in Illinois, State Senator Dave Koehler passed an initiative to form a Creative Economy Task Force to help the state attract and retain diverse businesses and talent.

“Creative businesses employ thousands of Illinoisans from all backgrounds,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “In today’s digital era, creative arts are a driving force for our economy. This legislation keeps us ahead of the curve and will promote job opportunities for those seeking new ventures.”

The arts and culture sector generates $31.1 billion in economic impact and employs over 190,000 workers in Illinois, making it the fifth largest state for arts and culture employment. Illinois arts deliver over $478 million in state and local government revenue each year.

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Koehler measure would increase access to bleeding disorder medications

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to expand access to medication for hereditary bleeding disorders, State Senator Dave Koehler is leading a measure to cut red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Residents should not have to wait for lifesaving medication because of restrictive insurance practices,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Illinoisans deserve to have access to doctor-recommended medication and treatments without waiting for insurance to determine if they need it.”

House Bill 4055 would prohibit prior authorization for FDA-approved medication for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.

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Senate passes Koehler's initiative to strengthen local food economies

SPRINGFIELD – As Illinois residents walk through the aisles of their local grocery store, they may wonder how far their food travels before it reaches their table. This has led State Senator Dave Koehler to advance an initiative to make Illinois food more readily available on store shelves.

“This initiative strengthens our food industry in a way that cultivates a stronger, more sustainable food system that benefits everyone,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “By bridging the gap from farm to table, we give our family farmers more opportunities to distribute their goods while making fresh produce available to our community.”

Senate Bill 3077 would create the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Act. This measure would require the Illinois Department of Agriculture to amplify local food processing, collection and distribution within the state through grants. Eligible applicants would include farms, co-ops, process facilities, food businesses and hubs with fewer than 50 employees, as well as Illinois nonprofit organizations and local governments.

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Senate passes Koehler measure to revitalize Peoria

SPRINGFIELD – In order to address urban decay in the greater Peoria area, State Senator Dave Koehler passed Senate Bill 2936 to revitalize neighborhoods throughout the community.

“This legislation would give every resident the ability to feel proud of their community,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “We need to lay the groundwork for much-needed urban development and revitalization efforts across the greater Peoria area.”

Under current law, only newly built single family homes and duplexes qualify for a tax break. Senate Bill 2936 would extend this tax break to remodeled homes and duplexes in areas of urban decay, giving landlords an incentive to upgrade properties in order to revitalize neighborhoods.

“This honors our commitment to promoting equitable access to quality housing options, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live in safe and well-maintained homes,” said Koehler. “This measure is a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. Together, we're taking proactive steps to shape a better tomorrow for all residents.”

Senate Bill 2936 passed the Senate on Tuesday and heads to the House for further discussion.