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SBAC Advocacy Update

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!

Insights Archive

What Small Business Needs to Make It Through

By growthzone | July 30, 2021

What small business needs to make it through An advocate has advice and a forecast for the sector as entrepreneurs navigate a pandemic that remains in flux. This week Chicago Comes Back welcomes Elliot Richardson, co-founder and president of the Small Business Advocacy Council, an organization dedicated to advocating for small businesses in Illinois. We…

Big win for small businesses!

By growthzone | July 21, 2021

SBAC Applauds Mayor Lightfoot and City Council For Providing Small Businesses a Big Win For Immediate Release July 21, 2021 Statement by Small Business Advocacy Council (SBAC) President Elliot Richardson: The SBAC and a robust coalition of business and community organizations have been fighting to reduce the time it takes for small businesses to obtain…

Your Ideas Can Have a Big Impact!

By growthzone | July 21, 2021

The resurgence of Illinois’ economy will strongly correlate to the recovery of the small business community. Do you have an idea? Let us know your ideas on policies, initiatives, and programs that may help the small business community by filling out this form! Please translate this page to the language of your choice. Supporters Fifth…

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