Murphy helps disabled veterans under new law

SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D – Des Plaines) allows veterans to receive property tax exemptions even if they did not occupy their residence at the start of the year.

Under current law, disabled veterans can receive property tax exemptions in the amounts of $2,500, $5,000 or complete exemption from taxation, depending on their level of disability, but if the veteran is not an occupant of the residence as of Jan. 1 of an applicable tax year, they are not entitled to any exemptions for that tax year. Senate Bill 2306 allows veterans who move into new residences after Jan. 1 to receive prorated exemptions based on the date of their occupation.

“Disabled veterans deserve our utmost gratitude as thanks for the many sacrifices they make defending our country,” Murphy said. “It’s not always possible to predict when you might have to move, and by allowing them to receive partial exemptions on their property taxes, we can help ease any financial burdens they may face. I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation that provides much-needed assistance to our country’s heroes.”

The legislation passed through both chambers of the General Assembly with bipartisan support and is effective immediately.

Murphy promotes voice of disabled individuals in workforce discussions

DES PLAINES — A new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) requires the governor to appoint two individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities to the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board.

“Individuals with disabilities need to have a seat at the table and an opportunity to make their voices heard on how to address the needs of Illinois’ workforce,” Murphy said. “I believe that as a state, we need to do more to utilize individuals with disabilities within the workforce. I hope that by having advocates on the board, they will help develop a strategic plan to increase employment among disabled Illinoisans.”

The Illinois Workforce Innovation Board seeks to evaluate and meet Illinois’ workforce needs. It includes a variety of members from the public and private sector who represent the interests of the business community, workers and educational field.

Senate Bill 3222 requires the governor to appoint two individuals who self-identify as individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities to the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board. Currently, nearly 50 members serve on the board.

According to theUnited States Census Bureau, about 7 percent of Illinoisans under the age of 65 have a disability.

This legislation, which was signed into law yesterday, takes effect immediately.

Murphy Honored for 100% Pro-Environment Voting Record

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) released its 2018 Environmental Scorecard this week. State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plains) has been honored with a perfect voting record. A total of 21 state senators received an award for their voting record during the 2018 legislative session. “Senator Laura Murphy demonstrated a commitment to environmental issues in Springfield this session,” said IEC Executive Director Jen Walling.

The 2018 Environmental Scorecard included numerous legislative measures.  Specific priorities from the Scorecard include:

●  SB2298: Industrial Hemp Act

○  This bill brings new opportunities to farmers as well as benefits to soil by opening new initiatives for sustainable agriculture.

●  SB2773: Renewable Energy Financing

○  This measure enhances the property-assessed clean energy (PACE) program by allowing Illinois to help communities access fund for clean energy projects.

●  HB4790: Use of Compost

○  This legislation increases the use of compost in transportation projects and helps create a market for compost use in Illinois.

“Senator Laura Murphy voted 100% of the time with the environmental community on nine pieces of key legislation,” added Walling. “The IEC is honored by Senator Murphy’s dedication to Illinois’ environment and we look forward to working together in the future.”

IEC releases its scorecard in August of each year.

New Murphy law promotes convention tourism

DES PLAINES —Mid-sized convention centers will continue to benefit from a state grant which helps them compete with other states under a new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines).

“This legislation is designed to spur tourism, economic activity and competition with convention centers in other states,” Murphy said. “Hosting conventions helps local hotels, restaurants and retail merchants. I am pleased that Illinois will benefit from another four years of this grant and hope to see increased economic growth around our convention centers.

House Bill 4990 extends the Municipal Convention Center and Sports Facility Attraction Grant until 2022. Through this program, mid-size convention centers can receive up to $200,000 in reimbursements for incentivizing business. This legislation applies to convention centers in: Schaumburg, Lombard, Tinley Park, Peoria, Springfield, Collinsville, Quincy, the Quad Cities and Rockford.

“My district has already greatly benefited from this program,” Murphy said. “I encourage mid-size convention centers across the state to take advantage of this grant and apply for funding.”

The grant is funded through the Tourism Promotion Fund, housed within the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. This law takes effect immediately.