Known as the “Keep it for the Crop” (KIC) initiative, agricultural and environmental groups in Illinois are joining together in a coalition to balance the use of fertilizers while not damaging the quality of soil and drinking water.  To help this effort, State Senator Michael Frerichs (D – Champaign) has introduced Senate Bill 3436, which would revise the Illinois Fertilizer Act to reflect updates seen in the fertilizer business. The measure unanimously passed out of the Senate Agriculture and Conservation Committee today.  

Click below to read the news release.

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Today, Senator Frerichs was joined by Pamela Althoff, Republican State Senator from McHenry, IL; Mark Denzler, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association; and Craig Coil, President of the Illinois Enterprise Zone Association at a press conference at the Capitol. The press conference was held to announce that Senator Frerichs and Senator Althoff will co-chair a new special Senate Committee on Enterprise Zones, and will travel statewide to hold four hearings on the matter.

Created thirty years ago, Enterprise Zones are one of Illinois' most proven and successful economic development tools. Without action from state officials, however, these special zones that offer businesses tax incentives and regulatory relief are set to begin expiring next year.

Senator Frerichs and Senator Althoff are working with the IL Manufacturers' Association on a comprehensive legislative package to modernize and extend Enterprise Zones.

Watch the press conference, below, or click "Read More" to read the news release.

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Governor Quinn laid out his proposal for next year's State budget in his annual Budget Address this week. Senator Frerichs was glad to see the Governor prioritize education funding, but wanted to hear more details on Medicaid and Pension reform. He is also paying particular attention to higher education funding, with the aim of keeping college affordable for Illinois students. The Budget Address marks the beginning of the State's budget process; legislators will now begin negotiations.

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