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Late last year Illinois Senate President John Cullerton assigned Senate Democratic caucus members and staff to a challenging, but urgent task: \u201cFind ways to renew and establish Illinois \u2019 support for job growth and economic development to improve our competitive advantage and stabilize our economy.\u201d\n
\nWithout seeking the kind of hype and public relations promotion that is common in Illinois government, an Economic Development Working Group began engaging key stakeholders and economic experts throughout the state. After weeks of discussions with regional job creation experts from throughout the state and intense reviews of Illinois business incentives, the group presented an aggressive approach to the goals set forth by Senate Democratic leadership.
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\nThe economic priorities of Senate Democrats maintained that a legislative package must:
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\n– Invest in the people and businesses of Illinois ;
\n– Build upon economic strengths unique to Illinois ; and
\n– Protect the pocketbooks of taxpayers to ensure trust in Illinois .
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\nEarlier in March, Senate Democrats unveiled their small business development and job creation package. Last week, the vast majority of that series measures passed the Illinois Senate and await consideration in the House.
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\nThe effort builds upon the successful passage of last year\u2019s $31 billion capital construction plan \u2013 the state\u2019s first infrastructure improvement plan in over a decade.
\nWith unemployment nearing 12% throughout Illinois , Senate Democrats remain the only legislative caucus with a successful, comprehensive package that establishes a reasoned approach to business investment incentives.<\/p>\n