Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Castro announces $2.4 million available for tourism grant programs

ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro is encouraging eligible organizations and businesses to apply for $2.4 million in state tourism grant funding announced by Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“The state’s $2.4 million investments in these tourism grant programs will build upon the success of our tourism industry while creating economic opportunities for Illinoisans,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The Tourism Attraction and Tourism Private Sector grant programs are incredible opportunities for eligible entities to gain state support for their tourism endeavors across Illinois.”

Read more: Castro announces $2.4 million available for tourism grant programs

Koehler, Turner highlight $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food systems

State Senators Doris Turner and Dave Koehler are encouraging local farmers, food processors and agricultural businesses to apply for a new round of funding through the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program, which will provide $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food supply chain.

“Everyone needs access to whole, nutritious, locally-sourced foods,” said Turner (D-Springfield), chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “By fortifying the food system, we are supporting our local farmers and mitigating food insecurity. This funding will expand access to fresh, local foods, strengthen the local economy, and grow the food supply chain.”

Read more: Koehler, Turner highlight $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food systems

Senate Democrats applaud support limiting diesel fuel costs’ impact on Illinois farmers

CHICAGO — Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus celebrated the announcement of relief for the agriculture industry to mitigate increasing diesel fuel costs.

The support allows Illinois farmers to use dyed diesel fuel when driving on roads, even though it is typically only used for agricultural purposes. Additional protections for farmers will also be considered as the fuel markets and agricultural economy face continued disruptions.

“Illinois farmers are already paying more to grow their crops, and now diesel is getting more expensive, too,” said State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Nobody should pour their sweat into the land only to lose money on it. This diesel relief gives farmers a real chance to come out ahead, and that's exactly what they've earned.”

Read more: Senate Democrats applaud support limiting diesel fuel costs’ impact on Illinois farmers

Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee

MONEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce joined Voortman Steel Machinery leadership, Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s $51 million expansion project in Monee.

“I am glad to say that this state has fully backed what we are seeing today,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This is our third major project in this manufacturing corridor. The Voortman Headquarters will be in this community for generations to come, and that’s something to be proud of.”

Read more: Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee