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.