Energy costs have skyrocketed across the state of Illinois added more financial burdens on families and businesses. Ameren Illinois has launched a new program to provide financial relief to income-qualified customers. The Supplemental Arrearage Reduction Program (SARP) is a $10 million initiative providing customers who qualify for LIHEAP with up to $1,000 per year for each service connection (gas and electric) to help them reduce their outstanding energy bills. Eligible customers are able to see and apply for the program by locating the main dashboard of their customer account.
Ameren Illinois continues to assist customers with other available programs. The following funds have been administered to assist customers:
- LIHEAP: $29 million
- Warm Neighbors Cool Friends: $365,000
- PIPP: $3.8 million
- Natural Gas Service Discount (LICA): $16.6 million
- Fresh Start: $1.5 million
- Community Assistance $2.3 million
To explore more information on these programs, visit Find Your Path to Energy Savings. Resources include billing options, energy efficiency, financial assistance, and supply choice.
I co-sponsored HB 4471, legislation that amends the Energy Assistance Act and removes the sunset on the Supplemental Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund. Extending this program offers protection for Illinoisans making difficult decisions to pay for energy costs.
I also co-sponsored SB76, legislation that would expand nuclear power plants across Illinois.
Property Taxes
Illinois property taxes rank highest in the U.S. After years of ranking No. 2 to New Jersey, the latest data shows Illinoisans paid the highest property taxes in the nation during 2023. Worse, Illinoisans also pay steep income and sales taxes.
This is an area where we definitely don’t want to be No. 1. We must reduce this crushing burden on families and job creators across Illinois.
“These high tax rates place an unfair burden on Illinois families who are already contending with the high cost of living. We need to do more to provide relief for our residents so they can thrive here in Illinois.”
Millstadt Track Champions!
I was out and about in the district and had to stop in Millstadt to give a shout out to the Millstadt Track Champions!
Congratulations to Reese Mehrtens, Mikah Davis, Sawyer Rohr, Taylor Rule, and Sophia Knobeloch on earning Champion status for winning 4×200 Relay, 400 Meter Run, and Long Jump!!
Join me and State Rep. David Friess on August 12 in New Athens to have open conversations about what’s important to you! This free event offers constituents an opportunity to discuss state legislation.
Business of the Month!
Rep. Kevin Schmidt Names Millstadt’s IGA for His “Business of the Month”
Millstadt, IL…After receiving submissions from across the 114th District, State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) was happy to select Millstadt’s IGA to be his “Business of the Month” for July. Rep. Schmidt presented the owners, Craig Norrenberns and TJ Norrenberns, with an official certificate of recognition for their commitment to their employees and engagement with other local businesses in the community.
“Craig Norrenberns and TJ Norrenberns make a positive impact on the community of Millstadt through their dedication to go above and beyond for their employees and customers,” said Schmidt. “Working together, they have the ability to use Christian-based beliefs and apply them to their work ethic which has helped build the success of the Millstadt IGA and the relationships they have created with other businesses.”
Millstadt IGA prides themselves on supporting local businesses and over thirty union employees. Aside from offering essential groceries, they have a butcher on-site to deliver high quality and fresh meat and produce at affordable rates and offer catering services. Furthermore, the partnership IGA has established with other businesses has helped supply 200 meals daily to the Millstadt Senior Center. This local IGA has made a difference in Millstadt since 2007.
The businesses that Millstadt IGA partner with include:Woods Bakery, Eckert’s Peaches, Keller Farms, Wenneman Meat Co, Behrmann Meat & Processing, Prairie Farms Milk, Salsa Rose Products, Old Monroe Distilling, Millpond Brewing, and Smokin K’s. Millstadt IGA believes in in supporting other local businesses by offering a variety of their quality products to everyone who walks through their doors.
“It was a privilege to meet TJ Norrenberns and Craig Norrenberns and learn more about their business and I look forward to seeing their continued success,” Schmidt continued. “IGA stores have been around for years, but this location is making a statement, and they have done tremendous work for the Millstadt community.”
Rep. Kevin Schmidt encourages the 114th District to nominate businesses to be recognized in the future. If you have a business you’d like to nominate, please nominate them by filling out this form, or by visiting the Resources tab at RepSchmidt.com.
These are the current committees I’m on:
Health Care Availability & Access
Prescription Drug Affordability
National Back to School Month!
Happy National Back to School Month! The start of a school year is a chance to build routines, set goals, and embrace growth. National Back to School Month celebrates the excitement and possibility that comes with learning. Here’s to a great year ahead!
Illinois Sweet Corn Appreciation Day
Today we celebrate Illinois’ state vegetable, sweet corn! This Illinois Sweet Corn Appreciation Day, be sure to enjoy an ear or two of delicious Illinois-grown corn. Learn more here.
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