Kane County Reporter

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has introduced a new grant program called the Illinois B2B NewBiz grant program. This program aims to provide financial assistance to businesses that started during the COVID-19 pandemic in industries that were severely impacted by it. These grants are targeted towards businesses that have not been eligible for state grants and most federal emergency support thus far.

To be eligible for a grant award of up to $30,000, for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations must meet certain criteria. This includes starting operations between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, having gross receipts of at least $25,000 and up to $20,000,000 in 2021, and currently having active operations in Illinois. Additionally, businesses must not have received a Back to Business (B2B) grant prior to 2023, and they must meet one of two criteria. Either the business or nonprofit is in a priority industry as defined for the previous Back to Business grant program, or the business is majority owned by individuals who became eligible for and received unemployment insurance benefits between March 13, 2020, and the date the business began operations.

Senator Don DeWitte expressed his support for the program, stating, "The Illinois B2B NewBiz grant program provides much-needed financial relief to businesses that have been struggling due to the pandemic. It is important that we support these businesses, especially those that have not been eligible for previous grant programs. This program is a step in the right direction to help them recover and thrive."

In other legislative news, the strengthened "Clear and Present Danger" law in Illinois has proven to be effective in keeping firearms out of the hands of potentially dangerous individuals. The law was put in place following a tragic mass shooting at the Highland Park 4th of July parade in 2022. The shooter in that incident was able to obtain a FOID card and legally purchase firearms, despite a clear-and-present-danger report being filed with the Illinois State Police by the Highland Park Police.

Senator DeWitte, who sits on the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR), played a role in strengthening the law. He stated, "When we keep firearms out of the hands of potentially dangerous people, we save lives. I was proud to support the clear-and-present-danger legislation when it was before the Senate, and I was proud to work with the ISP as a member of JCAR on the rule that closed the loophole that allowed the Highland Park shooter to legally obtain a firearm."

Furthermore, the Illinois State Police has introduced a new form to report public corruption. The form, created by the ISP's Special Investigations Unit, aims to provide a centralized platform for reporting suspected wrongdoing by elected officials and appointees at the state, county, and local levels. Senator DeWitte encourages individuals who have witnessed public officials behaving badly to utilize this form, stating, "This form is an important tool in combating public corruption and ensuring accountability in our government."

Lastly, concerns are arising about drought conditions returning to Illinois. Data from the United States Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service shows that soil moisture levels are decreasing compared to the previous year. The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that a majority of the state is currently experiencing abnormally dry to severe drought conditions. If these dry conditions persist, it could have significant implications for the state's farmers and anyone who takes pride in their garden or yard.

As the state looks ahead, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's seasonal outlook predicts warmer winter temperatures in Illinois, but normal precipitation levels for most of the state. However, there is a potential for drier than normal conditions in the northeastern part of Illinois.

It is crucial for businesses and individuals to stay informed about available grants, laws, and weather conditions in order to navigate these challenging times successfully.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://senatordewitte.com/2023/12/04/legislative-news-from-senator-don-dewitte-70/