Kane County Reporter

State Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) has partnered with the Illinois Manufacturing Association (IMA) and a bipartisan group of lawmakers to announce the launch of the IMA's 2024 legislative agenda. The agenda aims to strengthen Illinois' workforce, promote cutting-edge technology, and support the state's clean energy goals.

In a press conference, Senator DeWitte emphasized the need to address the shortage of technology jobs in the state. He stated, "There are tens of thousands of open technology jobs in the State of Illinois right now, and legislators need to create a pathway that entices students and adults into this vital field." DeWitte highlighted several measures included in the package of bills, such as student loan repayment assistance, a scholarship program for high school students, research and development tax credits, and a pilot program offering free childcare at manufacturing facilities.

One of the key bills in the IMA's legislative agenda is Senate Bill 163, for which Senator DeWitte is the Chief Sponsor. This bill seeks to make the temporary Research & Development Tax Credit permanent. DeWitte explained the importance of this tax credit, saying, "The R & D credit sunsets every five years, which creates a level of uncertainty and a lack of predictability. We need a permanent - or at least a long-term - extension and modernization of the program to ensure we are fostering the most innovative ideas in our state."

DeWitte also highlighted the decline in the U.S.'s share of research and development investment compared to China. He stated, "In the past few decades, the U.S. share of R & D has dropped from nearly 40 percent to just over 10 percent, while China has increased its R & D by 400 percent." DeWitte emphasized the need for Illinois to remain competitive and attract businesses. He noted, "The Governor has been given close to $1 billion for a 'business closure fund' to attract new business investment in our state. However, we must do more for businesses that have already invested in our state to give them incentives to stay in Illinois and grow their businesses through these IMA programs."

The IMA's 2024 legislative agenda, supported by Senator Don DeWitte, aims to address the workforce shortage in technology jobs, promote research and development, and provide incentives for businesses to invest and grow in Illinois. With these measures, the IMA and Senator DeWitte hope to strengthen the state's economy and ensure a competitive future for Illinois.