SPRINGFIELD – As the state begins to recover from the pandemic, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D- Western Springs) urges Gov. JB Pritzker to sign legislation to help small businesses bounce back from the stresses of the last year.

“Our small businesses need our help easing the financial burdens the last year has put on them,” said Glowiak Hilton, who sponsored the bill in the Senate. “Local governments should be able to make the decision to waive certain fees to allow these businesses to get back to a place of economic security.”

If signed, House Bill 2454 would create an option for local counties and municipalities to waive licensing, permitting, or registration fees for local businesses and services for businesses who demonstrate financial need due to the pandemic.

“Illinois’ hospitality sector alone saw a loss of 40% of jobs during the pandemic,” Glowiak Hilton said. “I urge the governor to sign this measure as soon as possible in order to provide the support our local businesses need to get back to where they were.”

HB 2454 is currently awaiting further action by the governor.

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To provide residents with safe local travel and recreation options, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) announced a state investment to construct a bike and pedestrian path in Elmhurst.

“Bike paths provide a safe public space for residents, families and visitors to be physically active and enjoy the outdoors,” Glowiak Hilton said. “This major investment will allow residents to enjoy even more opportunities for safe transportation and recreation, as well as attract visitors to our area.”

The notable project in the 24th District includes $198,000 to build a pedestrian overpass above Route 83 in Elmhurst.

Rebuild Illinois is awarding $105.7 million to 99 projects statewide, including recreational paths and trails, through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program. A complete list can be found on IDOT’s website.

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To encourage children to maintain their reading skills over the summer, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is launching a Summer Reading Club for students who live in the 24th Senate District.

“Reading encourages children to develop a lifelong interest in books, maintain literacy skills and stay connected with local libraries,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Reading is a great way to keep young minds active through the summer months, and I’m excited to incentivize students to stay engaged with learning opportunities.”

Studies indicate that 2 months of reading skills and 2 ½ months of math skills are lost over a single summer.

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books and return the form to Glowiak Hilton’s office by Aug. 11. Everyone who completes the summer reading club will be invited to an ice cream social with Sen. Glowiak Hilton.

To receive a book club form, visit www.SenatorSuzyGlowiak.com to download and print the form. Parents can also call her office at 630-785-3177 to request a copy by mail. Glowiak Hilton urges residents to call her office with any additional questions.

Click here to download a form.