DES PLAINES – Illinois taxpayers can expect to see up to $700 in tax rebates in the coming weeks thanks to the State Senator Laura Murphy-supported Illinois Family Relief Plan.

“The last two years have put a strain on people’s pockets – and they are in need of relief,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Through the Illinois Family Relief Plan, we were able to provide millions of hardworking Illinois taxpayers with the assistance they deserve.

Supported by Murphy, the Illinois Senate championed Senate Bill 157, which provides millions of Illinois taxpayers with financial relief – including direct tax rebates.

Under the law, people who filed 2021 Illinois taxes are eligible to receive up to $700. Individual filers who make less than $200,000 will receive a $50 income tax rebate, and couples who make less than $400,000 will receive $100. Filers are also eligible for $100 per dependent, with a maximum of three.

Additionally, people who paid property taxes in 2021 on their primary residence in 2020 – and make less than $250,000 individually or $500,000 jointly – are eligible for up to $300. The rebate will be equal to the property tax a resident was qualified to claim on their 2021 taxes.

People who filed taxes will automatically receive their rebate starting this week – otherwise they have until Oct. 17 to do so.

“As a state, we paid our bills, saw our credit rating improve and now it’s time to further invest in our priorities – the very people who live in the state,” Murphy said. “Through the uncertain challenges of recent years, the General Assembly has worked tirelessly to show residents we are prioritizing them.”

For more information on how the funds will be dispersed or to see qualification criteria, people can visit tax.illinois.gov/rebates.

DES PLAINES—To address the nationwide blood shortage, State Senator Laura Murphy is holding a Blood Drive Tuesday, Sept. 13 at the Prairie Lake Community Center.

“Blood transfusions are required for many life-saving operations and procedures,” said Murphy (D—Des Plaines). “When there is a short supply of blood, less operations can be performed safely—leaving many people without the immediate medical attention they need.  I hope this drive will bolster our local blood supply to make sure those who need medical care can get treatment as quickly as possible.”

In January, the Red Cross announced they were experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. Hospitals across the country were only receiving one-quarter of the blood products they requested, severely limiting the amount and type of procedures doctors would be able to perform. With less donations on average over the summer because of schedule changes and vacation time, now is a great time to donate and work on replenishing the blood supply.

Senator Murphy’s drive will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from noon to 5 p.m. in the Mountain View Rooms of the Prairie Lake Community Center, located at 515 E. Thacker St. in Des Plaines. Her office recommends filling out this form before arrival. 

DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is encouraging communities with economic challenges in the 28th District to apply for assistance through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program. The program, which usually requires matching funds for projects, now offers complete assistance for distressed communities.

“Local parks provide an invaluable service to the community. Securing funding for them will revitalize our communities and attract further investments in the future,” said Murphy (D- Des Plaines). “I encourage all local park districts to apply for this grant opportunity.”

The FY 23 budget allocated $56 million for OSLAD, the largest single investment in the program’s history, allowing the Department of Natural Resources to assist more communities than ever before. OSLAD requires grantees to provide matching funds for development projects, however with this investment the program is offering complete funding for economically disadvantaged communities.

Applications are being accepted through Sept. 30, 2022 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.

DES PLAINES –To make sure every family in the community has the option to enjoy fresh seasonal produce, State Senator Laura Murphy partnered with Mercer County Farm to donate sweet corn to local food pantries, including Elk Grove Township Pantry, the Schaumburg Barn, Maine Township Pantry, the Center of Concern, Des Plaines Self Help Closet, Catholic Charities in Des Plaines, and the Schaumburg Township Food Pantry.

“Sweet corn is an Illinois delicacy—but unfortunately, fresh produce is not accessible to many families because of their location or socioeconomic status,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am proud that this partnership allows for more corn to go back to the community, and ensuring all of us can enjoy this summer’s crop.”

This donation is the latest event of the ongoing partnership between Mercer County Farm Bureau and Sen. Murphy’s office. The Bureau participates in the Adopt a Legislator Program, working with Senator Murphy on agriculture-related legislation, holding tours for the Senator of their facilities, and provides resources for local events like the upcoming donation. Senator Murphy looks forward to continue the partnership moving forward, including learning more about the agricultural industry and giving back to her community.