Dear Illinois Chamber Members,
As I write this letter, we have just wrapped up the 104th General Assembly’s Spring legislative session. I want to take a moment to thank you, our valued members, for your ongoing support and commitment to strengthening Illinois’ business climate.
This session presented both challenges and opportunities, and I’m proud to share that your Chamber was at the forefront of advancing a pro-growth, pro-business, and pro-Illinois agenda. Our advocacy team worked tirelessly to ensure your voice was heard at the Capitol, and as a result, sound strategic policy outcomes prevailed.
Key Outcomes For Business This Session:
– Economic Incentives: We supported critical elements of the FY26 Business Development Package, including measures to boost high-growth manufacturing and incentivize film industry and tech investment across the state. Additionally, the Chamber supported forward-thinking legislation aimed at incentivizing key affordable housing developments that we hope to continue to advocate for in the future.
– Fought Against Harmful Tax and Fee Increases: We stood against proposals that would have introduced additional tax burdens on employers, including a statewide delivery fee, digital ads tax, and tipped credit elimination, and reminded lawmakers that investment follows certainty, not volatility.
– Advanced Infrastructure and Workforce Priorities: By collaborating with state and regional partners, we helped secure investments in infrastructure and job training that will directly support your business operations and workforce pipeline.
– Elevated Member Voices: We mobilized member testimony and engagement on bills impacting energy, mass Transit, taxation, regulation, and the legal climate, ensuring real business perspectives shaped legislative outcomes.
We recognize that the work is far from over. Although these advances signify some small wins, there was still over $1Billion in revenue enhancements (including over $330 million in expansive corporate tax changes) that were passed in the budget along with critical bills brought in at the last minute that dramatically impacted the viability of Illinois as a market destination for new businesses and a sound place to continue to do business for those already here. We continue to work throughout the Summer and into the Fall Veto Session to ensure that the voice of business is heard and bills that impact the business community will not become law. These efforts are part of a broader effort to reposition Illinois as a destination for business, investment, and innovation. The reality is—our work is never done. The competitive landscape is evolving, and we must continue pushing for reforms that reduce barriers, enhance predictability, and foster long-term economic growth.
Why Your Engagement Matters:
Now more than ever, we need you at the table. Your voice, expertise, and participation in our advocacy initiatives are crucial to shaping a better future for Illinois businesses. Whether you join our policy councils, attend local forums, or share your story with elected leaders, your involvement fuels the impact we make together.
Looking Ahead:
As we approach the fall veto session and upcoming regulatory activity, we will continue to focus on fiscal sustainability; A transit system where reformed governance provides a better product that is safe, efficient, and reliable while addressing the $770 Million funding deficit; Energy policy that leverages our strengths and is affordable; litigation reform; workforce readiness; and innovation infrastructure. These priorities reflect not only what businesses need today, but also what Illinois must adopt to lead tomorrow.
Thank you for being a part of this movement. Your trust in the Illinois Chamber empowers us to champion growth, fight for fairness, and deliver results. Together, we are building a stronger, more prosperous Illinois—one that works for business and because of business. As we know all too well, when business grows, communities grow, and Illinois grows.
With gratitude and determination,
