I want my constituents to know I voted yes to SB642– legislation that will give low-income seniors property tax relief.
This bill increases the maximum income limitation for the Senior Freeze Homestead Exemption, which hasn’t been raised since 2017.
What does this mean?
Beginning in 2026, limitations will increase from $65,000 to $75,000, allowing more seniors to take advantage of the exemption to save money on their property taxes. The income limitations will increase to $79,000 by 2028 for the senior citizens deferral program.
Seniors will be able to keep more money in their pockets once this bill is signed into law. This bill will make a difference for seniors across Illinois and I’m proud to have supported legislation that offers our low-income seniors property tax relief in Illinois.
I will continue to support legislation that lowers the cost of living in Illinois, especially for our seniors.
Pork Production
I was honored to meet with Jared Schilling in New Athens so I could tour his farm and learn about the high quality pork production operation. Their production of pork is superior, they use their own corn to feed, and recently installed new bins that provide safety benefits.
There are over 800 pig farmers in Illinois that raise safe and nutritious pork for your family and theirs.
Deer Hunting
It’s been many years of waiting/ hunting for Dean to harvest his first deer. Last weekend it happened and he had a perfect shot!
Legislative Sportsmen Caucus
My office presented Lebanon and Dupo Scouts with Legislative Sportsmen Caucus scholarship checks! The purpose of the bipartisan Sportsman’s Caucus is to protect and advance policies that promote hunting, fishing, or other outdoor recreational activities.
I was thrilled to award these scholarships to Troop 8028 & Troop 8668 and learn about Scout projects and badges they earned!
Rep. Schmidt’s Holiday Food Drive
State Representative Kevin Schmidt is excited to announce his Holiday Food Drive. Non-perishable items can be delivered to Rep. Schmidt’s District office on December 8, 9, and 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All members of the community are encouraged to participate by contributing canned food goods, as every contribution makes a significant impact on supporting those in need during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Rep. Schmidt cosponsored SB3476, legislation that creates a sales tax exemption for home-delivered meals, such as Meals on Wheels providers.
Drop off location: 4041 Mississippi Ave. Cahokia Heights IL, 62206
Available Days to drop off: Monday (12/8), Tuesday (12/9), Wednesday (12/10)
Time item can be dropped off: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
Rep. Schmidt Donates Pay Raise to Press Play x 2 Shinn Inc
East St. Louis, IL…State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) donated his pay raise for the month of November to Press Play x 2 Shinn, in the form of a food donation. He was more than happy to meet with Nancy Nixon and help her feed people in the community. Every month Rep. Schmidt donates his pay raise to a different local food pantry or non-profit organization throughout his district.
“Nancy and I are both passionate about fighting food insecurity,” said Schmidt. “It’s always a great feeling to work together with others in the community to help feed the hungry.”
Press Play x 2 Shinn Inc. was founded by Nancy Nixon of East St. Louis following the loss of her two children, Dez’Monn Nixon and Shontaves Thomas. Each Thanksgiving and Christmas, she and a group of volunteers prepare the meals in her home kitchen and distribute hot meals to those in need.
Food and household goods are a fundamental need for families in our communities. Whether you’re facing temporary hardship or ongoing challenges, there are resources available to help.
Visit Rep. Schmidt’s website to learn more: https://repschmidt.com/in-need-of-assistance-find-a-food-pantry-in-your-area/
The Mascoutah Public Library has received a $1,755 Grant from the Secretary of State to preserve Illinois history by utilizing current technology. Soon, the library will be creating a digital archive of community history records to share online with the public!
Mobile DMV Events- Dec 2 & Dec 4
Sign up for Dec 2 Event: https://repschmidt.com/mobile-dmv-sign-up/
Sign up for Dec 4 Event: https://repschmidt.com/mobile-dmv-sign-up-freeburg/
Residents in need of basic vehicle services provided by the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can take advantage of the Mobile Services Event.
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
NOTE: Driver’s tests will NOT be administered.
Visit the Illinois Secretary of State website for fees and required documentation for DMV services:
Acceptable forms of payment include personal checks, cashier’s checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover credit card and debit cards. Cash will NOT be accepted.
