October 10, 2023
The SBAC continues fighting for policies that will support small businesses and neighborhood business districts. Here are some updates on our efforts!
Health Insurance
The rising cost of health insurance continues to be a challenge for the small business community. Last spring the SBAC championed legislation focused on reducing premiums for small businesses and increasing transparency so policymakers, and the public, can better understand what drives the costs of health insurance. This legislation passed and will apply to health insurance plans in 2026. This is a big win for small businesses struggling to provide affordable, quality health insurance to employees. Learn more about the bill here.
You can hear SBAC President Elliot Richardson speak about the legislation here!
Property Taxes
The SBAC is formulating its 2024 state agenda and property taxes will be a big priority. We will be advocating for legislation focused on reducing property taxes and providing relief for small businesses. More to come shortly!
Neighborhood Revitalization Caucus
Neighborhood business districts are struggling in Chicago’s disadvantaged communities. We can revitalize neighborhoods by reducing barriers for small businesses and improving the process for entrepreneurs who want to open or grow a business in Chicago.
We are forming a legislative caucus focused on neighborhood revitalization and asking every politician in Chicago to participate. To see which policymakers have already expressed an interest in the caucus click here!
This caucus will focus on revitalizing underserved neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, and fostering economic growth in Chicago.
Please reach out to get involved in the SBAC!
Elliot Richardson speaks with FOX 32 about #ChiBizStrong on June 19th.
Elliot Richardson, SBAC President, speaks with FOX 32 about #ChiBizStrong and stopping politics from derailing important reforms for business. Please translate this page to the language of your choice. Supporters Fifth Third Bank Saul Ewing Arnstein Lehr Inland Bank Ntiva Daily Herald Tandem HR Interprenet Signature Bank Lexitas Empower Korey Richardson Open One Solutions Freeborn…
Are Illinois politicians supporting small businesses?
Illinois politicians have completed their spring legislative session. The Democrats, who hold a supermajority in both legislative chambers, proclaim their budget supports the small business community. That budget allocates $300 million for the Back to Business grant program, presumably to be awarded to small businesses struggling to recover from the pandemic. The budget also includes…
Elliot Richardson’s interview with Lauren Cohn on “Connected to Chicago”
The mayor wants to eliminate red tape for small businesses to help with reopening. Small Business Advisory Council President and Co-Founder Elliot Richardson joins Connected to Chicago” to discuss what can be done. Please translate this page to the language of your choice. Supporters Fifth Third Bank Saul Ewing Arnstein Lehr Inland Bank Ntiva…
