Illinois Insights: An Update from Cozen O’Connor (8/21)

August 21, 2023

ILLINOIS

Cook County to invest $10 million in pollution reduction program 

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle on Thursday announced the launch of the Businesses Reducing Impact on the Environment (BRITE) program, an initiative led by the county’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.

The $10 million program is available to dry cleaners, auto body and repairs shops, metal finishers, and food and beverage manufacturers in suburban Cook County to help reduce their pollution and negative environmental impacts.

The County has allocated approximately $4 million of the funds for “free on-site assessments to identify ways businesses can reduce pollution and create a healthier environment for employees, customers and the community,” according to the county.

Businesses interested in a free assessment can fill out an interest form with the county.

| AROUND THE STATE

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation to Address Food Deserts Across Illinois

“Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 850, which establishes the Illinois Grocery Initiative – a multi-pronged policy designed to address food deserts across the state. It will support existing grocers and encourage new grocery stores to open through incentive opportunities. The legislation also allows grocery stores receiving grants as part of the program to be designated as High Impact Businesses, providing them the opportunity to receive tax credits and other incentives,” from the Office of Gov. JB Pritzker.

Upcoming veto session could deal with ending nuclear moratorium in Illinois

“With six days of veto session planned for the Illinois General Assembly this fall, legislators will have their hands full dealing with the state’s energy policies,” by The Center Square.

State Rep. Lance Yednock will not seek reelection in November 2024

“State Rep. Lance Yednock (D-Ottawa) said Sunday he will not seek reelection in November 2024, but he will serve the remainder of his term,” by Shaw Local News Network.

Cook County Dems back MWRD incumbents for 2024 including newest commissioner Brady-Davis

“Cook County Democrats last week slated Board President Kari Steele, Board Finance Chairman Marcelino Garcia and commissioners Precious Brady-Davis and Daniel Pogorzelski as candidates they are throwing their weight behind in 2024. If elected next year, Steele, Garcia and Pogorzelski would serve new six-year terms while Brady-Davis would serve a two-year term,” by The Daily Line.

CHICAGO

| MORE FROM CITY HALL

Chicago’s private-equity and venture-capital firms lists are back

“This year’s private-equity list features 63 firms, with Thoma Bravo once again leading the way with the most assets under management. The firm reported $120.6 billion in AUM for 2022, nearly a 17% increase from 2021,” by Crain’s Chicago Business.

Chicago braces for midweek hot stretch as climatologists weigh in on ‘weather whiplash’ in a summer both wet and dry

“This week, the Chicago and surrounding areas will once again be hit with a drastic shift in weather as temperatures climb over 90 degrees, possibly nearing 100. Humidity could make it feel as hot as 110,” by the Chicago Tribune.

If you have any questions regarding this update or if you’re interested in ways to engage on these issues, please contact one of our team members here.

About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies

Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. With offices in Washington D.C., Richmond, Albany, New York City, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Chicago, and Santa Monica, the firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management. Its client base spans multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.

About Cozen O’Connor

Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 775 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle-market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 31 offices across two continents.

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