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.

Koehler, Hunter highlight Illinois Works Bid Credit Program

CHICAGO – State Senators Dave Koehler and Mattie Hunter are highlighting the Illinois Works Bid Credit Program, a key component of the state's comprehensive strategy to enhance equity and access in capital construction employment through the Illinois Works Jobs Program.

“Illinois’ greatest asset is its people, and through the Bid Credit Program, the State of Illinois is providing incentives to contractors who hire within our world-class workforce,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “The Illinois Works Jobs Program is essential to promoting diversity and increasing opportunity for Illinoisans throughout the state.”

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Koehler’s first in the Midwest initiative would reduce carbon emissions in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to reduce carbon emissions in Illinois, State Senator Dave Koehler lead a discussion Friday during a subject matter hearing in the Energy and Public Utilities Committee on his measure that would create a credit system to incentivize the use of low-emission fuels. 

“It’s time we take action to protect our environment,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This measure would allow Illinois to lead the charge to promote sustainable fuels that create a cleaner future for our state.”

Senate Bill 1556 would create a credit marketplace for low-emission fuels overseen by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Fuel providers would be required to register their fuels with the program and report their average emissions to the IEPA. Fuels emitting below the established baseline will generate credits, while those exceeding the baseline will generate deficits. To ensure compliance, the IEPA will have the authority to impose penalties on deficit generators failing to offset their deficits by purchasing or generating credits. Additionally, the legislation aims to meet goals set forth in the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act passed by the General Assembly in 2021.

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