Kane County Reporter

State Senator Don DeWitte and Representative Dan Ugaste recently toured Bison Gear and Engineering Corporation in St. Charles and Continental Envelope in Geneva, presenting Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) Grants funded by the Illinois Manufacturing Association (IMA). These grants aim to support local businesses in enhancing employee skillsets and productivity.

DeWitte also highlighted the signing of Senate Bill 3567, which amends Illinois’ Truth in Taxation law. The new legislation requires taxing bodies to display notices of proposed tax levy changes prominently on their websites for at least 30 days, supplementing the existing requirement to publish these notices in local newspapers. This dual approach is intended to improve public access to information regarding potential property tax increases.

Additionally, Senate Bill 275 has been signed into law, offering Illinois drivers the option of choosing between a four-year or eight-year driver’s license starting July 1, 2027. DeWitte, who was the leading Chief Co-Sponsor of this bill, stated that this change aims to reduce DMV visits and provide greater convenience for motorists.

Senator DeWitte also expressed gratitude for community participation in a recent prescription drug drop-off event and announced several upcoming events in the 33rd District:

- September 5: Senior Expo at Dundee Township Rakow Center

- September 9: IPASS on Demand at Algonquin Village Hall

- September 17: Senior Expo at St. Charles Pottawatomie Park

- September 21: Shred Event at Pingree Grove

- September 24: I-CASH Unclaimed Property Day at Algonquin Village Hall

- October 15: Senior Expo at Crystal Lake Park District Grand Oaks Building

These events aim to engage residents with various services and resources.

In economic news, Illinois now has one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation at 5.2 percent as of July, according to new data from the US Department of Labor. A survey by Alignable revealed that 58 percent of small businesses are earning less than last year, reflecting broader national trends where many small business owners report decreased revenue across various industries.

Senator DeWitte criticized recent tax hikes by Governor J.B. Pritzker's administration, arguing that they hinder job growth and increase costs for residents. He voiced concerns that these economic pressures are prompting both individuals and businesses to leave Illinois.