Springfield, IL -(Effingham Radio)- The Illinois Chamber of Commerce today released their legislative ratings for the 100th General Assembly. The Illinois Chamber’s Legislative Ratings tracks votes important to the state’s business community and grades legislators based on their support of pro-business issues during the two-year legislative session.
Among bills included in the report are the 32% income tax increase, proposed red tape for call center operators, an electricity rate increase, expensive regulations to internet website operators, a $15 an hour minimum wage, a gross receipts tax on investment management services, and fake workers’ compensation reform. However, not all was bad. The Chamber included votes on legislation that will bring Illinois to the forefront of 5G internet, state preemption of autonomous vehicles, comprehensive procurement reform, and renewing the state’s vital EDGE tax credit.
The Illinois Chamber also honored 34 members of the Illinois House of Representatives and 13 members of the Illinois Senate with its biennial “Champion of Free Enterprise” award, given in recognition of their support for voting to further economic opportunities for Illinoisans.
“The Chamber’s Legislative Ratings lets Illinois families, small businesses, and taxpayers know if legislators voted in favor of private sector job creation and a stronger economy,” said Todd Maisch (pictured above), president and CEO, Illinois Chamber of Commerce.
“While most Illinois lawmakers continue to provide lip service to the need for pro-growth reforms, these 47 lawmakers are committed to supporting and defending Illinois employers throughout the State.”
To be eligible for the “Champion of Free Enterprise” award, a lawmaker must have received an average of 85 percent or better voting record over the previous two General Assemblies with the Illinois Chamber.
The average GPA for both legislative chambers for the 100th General Assembly was 49%, compared to 60% in the 99th General Assembly.
The Chamber will spend the coming weeks presenting the awards to lawmakers in district at local chamber events.
To see how your lawmaker voted with the Illinois Chamber visit us at ilchamber.org