Two weeks remain of spring session and a lot of work is needed to bring affordability to Illinois. House Republicans are curious if Illinois Democrats will keep their promise to taxpayers on lowering the cost of living. So far, we have seen very little to no movement on legislation that would make life more affordable for families and businesses alike. This week at the Capitol was focused more on committee hearings as the third reading deadline for Senate bills is scheduled for May 22.
We have heard a lot of talk about affordability in Illinois. House Republicans have introduced several key bills that would offer relief now, but the majority party has yet to prove they’re serious about lowering property taxes, gas taxes, and energy rates.
Rep. Schmidt Wants to End Outrageous Property Taxes in IL
Due to poor public policy, Illinois now has the highest effective property tax rate in the nation. We must reverse course and craft policies that keep families and businesses here in Illinois because our state continues to see people flee to neighboring states to save money.
My colleagues on the other side of the aisle support cutting tax revenues from local governments (LGDF Share Rates) which will likely lead to even higher property taxes. Many of the people affected by historic property tax increases are in lower-income communities, such as Cahokia Heights and East St. Louis.
I’m proud to join my Republican colleagues in support of HB4294, legislation that would increase the percentage of revenue allocated to the LGDF and provide more stability for local governments across Illinois.
Rep. Schmidt’s ‘Business of The Month’ Highlights Good Morning Cafe
Millstadt, IL…State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) recognized Good Morning Cafe as his ‘Business of The Month’ for April. Rep. Schmidt visited with the owners Chelsea Vogel Martinez and Irepan Martinez to present them with an official certificate from the Illinois House of Representatives.
“It was a pleasure to meet Chelsea Vogel Martinez and Irepan Martinez to learn more about the family-owned business here in Millstadt,” said Schmidt. “Chelsea built this café with the help of her family and is grateful for the support from the community. This business definitely has a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere where only fresh food is always served!”
Chelsea always had a dream of owning her own café, and it took a family effort to make that dream a reality. She also credits her staff for the success of her business and for helping make every customer feel at home.
Good Morning Café offers traditional diner favorites along with unique specials, including some Mexican inspired dishes. They have a convenient drive through pickup window in the rear of the building, offer online ordering, and a full coffee bar with a variety of different drinks including protein shakes.
Illinois Working to Break Records for High Taxes
Residents and job creators will continue to flee our state if we continue overtaxing them. House Republicans are committed to producing policies that bring down costs for Illinois families and create more opportunities for businesses to thrive.—Illinois combined state, local tax rate tops the country.
Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program
With New York becoming the second Democrat-led state to opt into the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program, Illinois should stop putting politics ahead of students and do the same. New York now joins 29 other states across the country that have embraced this opportunity to expand educational resources and support for families…read more from the Caucus Blog.
The Educational Choice for Children Act requires states to opt in and will go into effect in 2027. The program is designed to empower parents and provide crucial educational services to students in K-12 public and private schools. Donors can give up to $1,700 and receive a tax credit for 100% of that expenditure.
Sign Up Now for Our Mobile DMV Event in Millstadt!
Residents in need of basic vehicle services provided by the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can take advantage of the Mobile Services Event on Thursday, June 11th.
The following drivers services will be available:
- Renewal/Correction of Driver’s License
- New/Renewal/Correction of State ID
- Vehicle Sticker Sales (License Plate)
- Organ/Tissue Donor Information and Registration (at time of DL/ID Renewal)
- Motor Voter Registration with Driver’s License/ID Renewal
- Real ID Applications
Saturday, May 16th- Armed Forces Day
Thank you to the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces for your courage, service, and devotion to our great country!
Representative Kevin Schmidt represents the 114th District, which includes a portion of St. Clair County.
Please contact Rep. Schmidt’s office at (618)-215-1050 with any questions or concerns regarding state issues.
