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!
PRESS RELEASE: BIG Legislation for Small Businesses
Illinois Small Business Advocates Call For Funding and an Improved Business Interruption Grant Program Illinois small businesses are fighting to recover from the pandemic. However, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity reports that out of the 40,000 businesses that applied for a Business Interruption Grant, only about 9,000 received funding. Business owners hanging on…
Black And African American Owned Businesses Should Receive Their Fair Share Of State Contracts
Black And African American Owned Businesses Should Receive Their Fair Share Of State Contracts Illinois has failed many Black and African American owned small businesses because they have been unable to procure their fair share of state contracts or receive a fair share of the revenue associated with state contracts. Indeed, the failure of Black…
BIG Legislation for Small Businesses
READ H.B 1860 HERE READ S.B 1982 HERE BIG LEGISLATION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES President Biden has signed The American Rescue Plan Act (H.R 1319) into law. Accordingly, the State of Illinois is expected to receive $7.549 billion in funds to foster recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. A robust coalition of small business advocates are asking that…
