01 Nov 2010

Governor Quinn Announces Chrysler to Invest $600 Million to Produce Future Vehicles at Belvidere Facility

By Andrew Mason
State's $62 Million Investment Package Will Save Nearly
2,000 Jobs, Boost Illinois' Automotive Industry
CHICAGO - October 28, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that Chrysler Group LLC is planning to invest $600 million over the next three years to expand its Belvidere Assembly Plant and prepare it for production of future vehicles. The state is providing a $62.1 million business investment package to save 1,950 permanent jobs and generate 700,000 construction hours. Governor Quinn proposed, helped to pass and signed legislation into law in December to expand the EDGE tax credit to benefit the auto industry, which was critical to Chrysler's decision to stay and expand in Illinois.
"Illinois has some of the best and most productive workers in the nation, so it's no wonder Chrysler has chosen to remain in Illinois for the production of future vehicles," said Governor Quinn. "This significant investment will save nearly 2,000 Illinois jobs and is a clear indication that Illinois is continuing our economic recovery."
The state's investment will help Chrysler build a 638,000 square-foot body shop, in addition to installing new machinery, tooling and material handling equipment. Work began this summer, and the project is expected to be completed next year.
The improvements will facilitate the production of the next generation of Chrysler vehicles in 2012, incorporating advanced components and systems technologies. The Belvidere facility currently produces the Dodge Caliber, Jeep® Compass and Jeep Patriot.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is administering the state's business investment package. The package consists of EDGE tax credits, Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) job training funds that will help enhance the skills of the company's workforce, and Large Business Development Program funds for capital improvements.
Chrysler will also benefit from being located in an Enterprise Zone. The enhanced EDGE tax credit enables auto manufacturing companies, which are among Illinois' largest group of employers, to retain employee income tax withholdings as an alternative to the current EDGE corporate tax credit and reinvest those funds into operations that create more jobs.
"Governor Quinn has stood by Chrysler since day one because he knows how important this company is to Illinois and the people of this region," said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. "Today, we are seeing the benefits of our investments as we help usher in a new era of manufacturing excellence in Illinois."
Illinois leads the Midwest in job creation with more than 50,000 jobs being added this year, including more than 10,000 manufacturing jobs. Illinois' economic growth in 2010 also nearly doubles the nation.
26 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Marks 90th Anniversary of Women's Right to Vote; Proclaims Women's Equality Day

By Andrew Mason

Highlights State Laws that Protect Women from Gender-Based Discrimination

CHICAGO - August 26, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today joined women leaders from across Illinois to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the passage of legislation that gave women the right to vote. During a ceremony at the James R. Thompson Center, Governor Quinn proclaimed today as Women's Equality Day in Illinois, and highlighted the state's efforts to combat gender-based discrimination and to protect women's rights to equal pay for equal work.

"Dedicated women throughout history have enriched our society, economy and families, and today we honor their courageous fight for equality and respect," said Governor Quinn. "I am proud to continue the fight to strengthen our labor and human rights laws to protect women's fundamental rights."

Last year Governor Quinn expanded protections under Illinois' Equal Pay Act by extending the time period for individuals to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor and the statute of limitations for individuals to sue for back pay in court. Governor Quinn also signed a new law that requires all institutions of higher education covered by the Illinois Human Rights Act to prominently display posters outlining sexual harassment laws and policies.

"I am proud to host today's Women's Equality Day celebration. Our department has been working diligently to ensure freedom from unlawful discrimination and to promote equal opportunity and affirmative action for all individuals in Illinois through enforcement of the Illinois Human Rights Act," said Rocco Claps, Director of the Illinois Department of Human Rights. "Today's celebration reminds us of our duty to protect women from gender-based discrimination."

The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution became law on Aug. 26, 1920, granting women the right to vote. That day also marks the 90th Anniversary of the Women's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor, created by the U.S. Congress in recognition of the challenges confronted by women in the workplace.

"As we remember the challenges faced by so many women on Women's Equality Day, I am pleased of our Department's tireless efforts to ensure all workers receive wages they're entitled to, whether it's equal pay for equal work, minimum wage or overtime," said Catherine Shannon, Director, Illinois Department of Labor. "We will continue to ensure pay equity in the workplace."

Along with the Illinois Department of Human Rights, the commemoration was coordinated by the U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau, Illinois Department of Labor and the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Women.

Former WGN-TV personality Merri Dee emceed the event, which was attended by representatives from the Young Women's Leadership Charter School, dozens of state agencies and health care and social service organizations. Actresses portrayed famous suffragists and other women who fought to improve women's rights. Governor Quinn's mother Eileen Quinn, who will turn 93 this October, also attended the event.

###

26 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Names Chief of Staff

By Andrew Mason

Names Secretary of Department of Human Services Michelle R.B. Saddler to Key Administration Post

CHICAGO - August 24, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today named Michelle R.B. Saddler as his Chief of Staff. Saddler previously served as the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS). Prior to serving as Secretary of DHS, Saddler was the Director of Policy for the Quinn Administration and has held a number of key management and policy positions in the public and private sectors.

"Michelle Saddler is one of the most knowledgeable and dedicated members of my cabinet, and I look forward to having her serve as my Chief of Staff," said Governor Quinn. "There is no one better-suited to continue my mission of creating jobs, supporting Illinois' economic recovery and protecting our most vulnerable residents."

Saddler was appointed by Governor Quinn to be Secretary of DHS on Oct. 11, 2009. The agency, one of the state's largest, provides integrated services to individuals, families and communities for developmental disabilities, mental health, rehabilitation services and alcoholism and substance abuse, among others.

While at DHS, Saddler was charged with implementing a number of Governor Quinn's top initiatives, including the Put Illinois to Work program. The program was one of the largest and most successful in the nation and has put more than 26,000 people to work in subsidized temporary jobs. Additionally, under Saddler's leadership, the agency drew down an additional $250 million in federal funds for human services.

Before being named policy chief for the Quinn Administration, Saddler served in a number of policy and management positions in both the public and private sectors. Her past positions include Vice President for International Adoptions for the Lifelink Corporation and Executive Director of the Illinois Metropolitan Investment Fund. She also served as Director of Investments with then-Illinois State Treasurer Quinn and is a Co-Chair of the Board of Directors of Protestants for the Common Good.

Saddler earned her bachelor's degree from Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and has a master's in management from Northwestern University's J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, where received the F.C. Austin Scholarship - the school's highest merit award. (Additional background information is attached.)

"I look forward to continuing to serve and care for the people of Illinois as Governor Quinn's Chief of Staff," said Saddler. "I will work to continue the important partnerships with our legislators, employees, providers and advocacy groups."

Current DHS Assistant Secretary Grace Hou will serve as the agency's Acting Secretary. Prior to her work at DHS, Hou was Executive Director of the Chinese Mutual Aid Association, a non-profit social service agency that serves Chinese immigrants and refugees.

###

 

 

23 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Better Protect Illinois' Pet Owners

By Andrew Mason

New Law Requires Pet Stores to Provide Animal's Health History Before Sale to New Owners

CHICAGO - August 22, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed a bill into law that will protect pet owners throughout Illinois by requiring pet stores, animal shelters and control facilities to disclose important information, including health history and name of breeder, before selling dogs or cats.

"This new law will make sure consumers have all the necessary information before buying a pet," said Governor Quinn. "Pet owners have a right to know where an animal was bred and if there are any past medical issues to help them make an informed decision."

House Bill 5772 requires pet stores, animal shelters and control facilities to disclose certain consumer information on or near the animal's cage. Consumers must also receive a copy of the information prior to purchase.

Pet shops, animal shelters and controls will be required to disclose the following information prior to sale: retail price, including adoption fees or other charges; breed, age, date of birth, sex and color of the dog or cat; details of vaccinations and health history; name, address and identification number of the breeder; and any known diseases or other health conditions (applies to animal shelters and controls only).

Currently, pet stores are required to disclose this information when it is requested by the consumer. However, the law does not specify when the information must be disclosed. As a result, many pet stores do not disclose information until after the sale is final.

The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Susana Mendoza (D-Chicago) and Sen. Jeff Schoenberg (D-Evanston) and takes effect Jan. 1, 2011.

"There are too many stories of Illinois consumers buying a puppy from a pet store only to find out that the dog came from a puppy mill and it has substantial physical and emotional issues. This bill is about giving consumers information about a pet before they buy a dog or cat," said Rep. Mendoza. "This is a great day for consumers who will no longer have to guess about where the puppy in the window came from, or what medical issues the puppy has."

###

23 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Improve Emergency Medical Care in Illinois

By Andrew Mason
Law Ensures High Quality Advanced Critical Care Transportation

CHICAGO - August 21, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation to ensure the highest quality of emergency medical transportation for Illinoisans who are critically ill. The new law will establish minimum standards for ambulance services that provide advanced critical care transportation.

"When critically ill patients are being transported to receive the care they need, we must do everything possible to ensure they receive the highest quality of care," said Governor Quinn. "This new law will ensure that the staffs in advanced critical care ambulances are properly educated, trained and licensed."

Under the new law, the Illinois Department of Public Health will establish standards to ensure that those who provide advanced critical care transport have the advanced staffing and equipment needed to properly care for critically ill patients. The standards will include staffing, licensure, education, medical equipment, vehicle standards, and treatment and transport protocols.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will also have the ability to license "reserve" ambulances. This makes it possible for ambulance providers to quickly replace any ambulances taken out of service, and continue to provide emergency medical care. The law also allows IDPH to continue to administer the Illinois' emergency medical technician (EMT) exam, instead of requiring EMTs to take the more expensive national exam.

House Bill 5183 was sponsored by Rep. Donald L. Moffitt (R-Gilsen) and Sen. David Koehler (D-Peoria) and takes effect Jan. 1, 2011.

"This law will ensure that people are given the best care possible by trained emergency medical staff when critical care ambulance transport is needed," said Rep. Moffitt.

This legislation further amends the Emergency Medical Service Systems Act to authorize IDPH to suspend, revoke or refuse to issue or renew the license of an emergency medical service professional who has been convicted, pled guilty or pled no-contest to certain felonies. Currently, IDPH can only revoke the license of a felon if the crime was committed while the person was providing emergency medical services.

"I'm thankful that the Governor signed this important law that will ensure the safety and well-being of critically ill patients," said Sen. Koehler.

###
23 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Law to Protect Children from Sexual Exploitation

By Andrew Mason

Illinois Safe Children Act Helps Law Enforcement Stop Sex Traffickers; Ends Criminal Prosecution of Innocent Child Victims

CHICAGO - August 20, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed the Illinois Safe Children Act into law. The new law protects children in Illinois from being forced into the sex trade and gives law enforcement additional tools to fight the human-trafficking groups that exploit them. It also stops the criminal prosecution of victimized children and ensures they receive the necessary protective services.

"For too long, exploited children have been treated as criminals, while the adults who stole their innocence go free," said Governor Quinn. "Illinois does not tolerate exploitation of our children. Today, we give important new tools to aid law enforcement in this fight and help our victimized children to heal."

The Illinois Safe Children Act makes Illinois one of the first states to pass comprehensive legislation to address the human trafficking of children under the age of 18. The new law ensures that innocent children who are lured or coerced into prostitution will now be immune from criminal prosecution and will be placed in the child protection system instead of the criminal justice system.

Victims under the age of 18 will now be presumed abused or neglected and can be placed in a secure setting until a proper placement is found. Law enforcement must now report an allegation of human trafficking of a child to the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS), which must conduct an investigation within 24 hours.

Illinois' laws regarding the sexual exploitation of children will now recognize that anyone under the age of 18 is a child victim, conforming to federal law and state's human-trafficking laws. The act removes references to "juvenile prostitutes" in Illinois' criminal code, recognizing that children have no capacity to consent to their own commercial sexual exploitation and are victims of a serious sexual offense.

The new law allows the same legal tools used to fight groups selling drugs to be used against groups who traffic children. It supports investigations of these organized crime rings by adding the offenses of human trafficking and juvenile pimping to the list of offenses subject to court-ordered interceptions (wire taps). Additionally, it allows officer-safety recordings to protect undercover officers during dangerous sex-trafficking investigations.

The act allows law enforcement to impound any vehicle used for a variety of human-trafficking and prostitution-related crimes, creating a funding mechanism to support victim services and police operations. The act also limits the defense argument of pimps or traffickers who say that they "believed" that a prostituted child was at least 18 years old.

Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez was instrumental to passage of the legislation and her office has led the charge in efforts to proactively address the issue by forming a specialized Human Trafficking Initiative and creating partnerships with social service providers to offer services for children who fall prey to sex trafficking.

"Many people consider the sex trafficking of children to be an international issue and not a problem that impacts us here right in our own communities, but that is not the case at all," Alvarez said. "The Illinois Safe Children Act is landmark legislation that will provide police and prosecutors with the tools that we need to aggressively tackle this crime. This new law will also put Illinois at the forefront of states who have enacted new laws to protect children from the horrors of sex trafficking."

In addition to the new law, DCFS is currently establishing an allegation of Human Trafficking of a Child in child protection investigations. Law enforcement officers and mandated reporters of abuse and neglect will be required to report to the DCFS Child Abuse Hotline whenever they have reason to suspect that a minor has been exploited by traffickers, and DCFS will investigate the allegation and provide protective, supportive and therapeutic services to these child victims.

House Bill 6462 was sponsored by Sen. Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) and Rep. Will Burns (D-Chicago) and takes effect immediately.

###

23 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Welcomes NHL Stanley Cup to Springfield

By Andrew Mason

Chicago Blackhawks' Championship Trophy to be Displayed at Illinois State Fair

SPRINGFIELD - August 20, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today welcomed the 2010 National Hockey League (NHL) Champion Chicago Blackhawks' Stanley Cup and team owner Rocky Wirtz to Springfield as the Cup continues its victory tour of Illinois in honor of the Chicago Blackhawks' historic NHL Championship win.

"The Blackhawks' overtime win against the Flyers was celebrated in every corner of our great state, so it is fitting that the Stanley Cup is traveling all over Illinois to see the fans," said Governor Quinn. "I want to thank the Hawks for bringing the Stanley Cup to Springfield. I hope everyone puts on their Blackhawk red and black to come out and celebrate."

After a brunch at the Executive Mansion with members of the United Service Organizations (USO) and the Wirtz family, the Cup arrived at the 2010 Illinois State Fair for an official unveiling in advance of its public display on Saturday.

"We are excited about this unique public viewing opportunity at the Illinois State Fair with Governor Quinn and our great partner the USO," said Jay Blunk, the Blackhawks Senior Vice President of Business Operations. "This allows us to give back to the people of Illinois, while also building awareness for those who protect our freedom, both past and present."

The Cup will then head to the State Capitol where it will be on display briefly in the Rotunda on Friday between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. The renowned trophy will spend the night at the Executive Mansion under the care of Mike Bolt, the NHL's official guardian of the Cup.

The public will then be able to view the Cup and pose for photos when it returns to the fair on Saturday. It will be located at the corner of Main Street and Illinois Avenue, just outside the carnival midway from 11. a.m. until 4 p.m. Fairgoers can stop and celebrate the Chicago Blackhawks thrilling victory over the Philadelphia Flyers with one of most recognizable awards in the world of sports.

The Stanley Cup was first presented to the champions of the Amateur Hockey Association of Canada in 1893. In 1926, the NHL assumed official control of the Cup and, over the years, the names of players who have won the league's championship have been engraved on the base. It currently measures almost three feet tall and weighs about 35 pounds.

###

23 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Announces $2.3 Million Investment Package to Support Illinois Boeing Expansion

By Andrew Mason

Project will Bring 70 New Jobs, Spur Future Economic Growth and Boost Illinois' Manufacturing Industry

MASCOUTAH - August 19, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that Illinois is providing a $2.3 million business investment package to assist Boeing with its plans to locate a new facility at MidAmerica Airport in St. Clair County. The state's investment will leverage a $7 million Boeing investment and is expected to bring 70 new jobs to the Metro East region, with the potential to create more jobs over the next few years. It will also boost manufacturing and spur economic growth throughout the state.

"Our top priority is to get people back to work and continue our economic recovery," said Governor Quinn. "This investment is bringing dozens of good-paying, sustainable jobs to the region, boosting Illinois' manufacturing industry and helping MidAmerica Airport reach its full potential. I want to thank Boeing for continuing to invest in the people of Illinois."

The state's investment package will support Phase I of a potential three-phase project by Boeing to expand its Defense, Space and Security Group operations and create a Strategic Manufacturing Center at MidAmerica Airport. The center will serve as the lead facility for manufacturing complex sub assemblies for Boeing products and will be the company's first manufacturing facility in the state of Illinois.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will administer the state's business investment package consisting of Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) corporate income tax credits, which are based on job creation; job training funds; and local benefits from being located within an enterprise zone.

"Our partnership with Boeing reinforces that Illinois has a quality workforce and the right resources to help any company succeed," said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. "This is a great example of how - through our collaborative efforts - we are creating jobs, expanding our economy and helping Illinois businesses grow."

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial airplanes and defense, space and security systems. The company is headquartered in Chicago with 158,000 employees in more than 70 countries.

In 2010, Illinois' manufacturing sector has added more than 12,000 jobs, which is a higher growth rate than the national average.

Governor Quinn was joined at the event today by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL), Congressman John Shimkus (R-IL), State Rep. Tom Holbrook (D-Belleville), State Rep. Dan Beiser (D-Alton), State Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Collinsville), President and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space and Security Dennis Muilenburg, and other civic and business leaders.

###

09 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Benefit Families of Illinois' Veterans

By Andrew Mason
Children and Grandparents Now Eligible for Family Military Leave
CHICAGO - July 30, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed a bill into law to expand eligibility to children and grandparents of active duty service men and women for unpaid leave under the Family Military Leave Act.

"This change to the Family Military Leave Act will allow the men and women who serve our country to spend valuable time with family members before deployment," said Governor Quinn. "Grandparents and adult children working for companies employing more than 50 people will now be able to take unpaid leave from work and be with their loved ones before he or she goes to serve the call to active duty."

"Not only is the Family Military Leave Act important for families but it also is critical for the personal well-being of those who serve in our armed forces," said Illinois Department of Veterans director Dan W. Grant.  "An impending deployment and having to part from family can be a stressful and emotional time for service men and women - the ability to be among family members that can help each other prepare is immeasurable."

Senate Bill 3818 amends the Family Military Leave Act to include adult children and grandparents of individuals called to military service as eligible for the same leave provided to spouses and parents. Under the new law, employers with 50 or more employees will be required to provide up to 30 days of unpaid family military leave to a worker when their spouse, child, parent, or grandchild is being deployed.

Sponsored by Sen. Toi W. Hutchison (D-Chicago Heights) and Rep. Lisa M. Dugan (D-Kankakee), the new law is effective Jan. 1, 2011.

Governor Quinn also signed a bill today pertaining to specialty license plates for Veterans. House Bill 4778, sponsored by Rep. Don Moffitt (R-Gilson) and Sen. David Koehler (D-Peoria), allows Korean War Veterans, U.S. Veterans, Vietnam Veterans, World War II Veterans, Army Combat Veterans, and U.S. Army Veterans to obtain specialty license plates at no additional cost to the existing applicable registration fee. The new law amends the Illinois Vehicle Code and becomes effective Jan. 1, 2011.

The Governor also today signed House Bill 4667 and Senate Bill 3630 to benefit Veterans.
###
02 Aug 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Bill to Increase Wage Protections for Thousands of Illinois Workers

By Andrew Mason

New Law Strengthens Penalties for Unpaid Wages; Helps Workers to Recover Wages More Quickly

CHICAGO - July 30, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed a bill into law to increase protections for Illinois workers who are not paid the wages they have earned. The new law amends existing state law to help thousands of Illinois workers recover unpaid wages more quickly.

"Illinois workers deserve every penny they have earned, on-time and in-full," said Governor Quinn. "This important legislation will help Illinois workers recover unpaid wages faster and will further crack down on wage theft throughout our state."

Senate Bill 3568 strengthens the rights of Illinois workers who have been victims of wage theft. The bill makes both first and repeat wage theft violations more serious crimes. Civil and criminal penalties for wage theft will increase under the new law, and repeat offenders can face up to three years in prison.

Workers will now be able to take alleged violations directly to the state circuit court and collect all costs and reasonable attorney's fees. The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) will also establish a streamlined process to resolve small claims. For the first time ever, employees will be expressly allowed to file class action lawsuits against employers. Additionally, workers will be protected from retaliation for reporting alleged violations in public forums.

A recent study by the University of Illinois at Chicago's Center for Urban Economic Development underscored the negative impact of wage theft on more than 300,000 workers in Chicago and suburban Cook County, as well as the economy overall. The study found that nearly half of the approximately 1,100 low-wage workers surveyed experienced at least one pay-related violation. The study estimates that full?time, year-round workers participating in the survey annually lost an average of $2,595 out of total earnings of $16,753, due to workplace violations.

In 2009, the IDOL recovered $3.1 million in unpaid and underpaid wages and continues to provide assistance to workers for the collection of wages and final compensation that include unused vacation pay, commissions, bonuses or other fringe benefits. Under Illinois law employees must receive their final wages, vacation pay, commissions and bonuses on their next regularly scheduled pay day. Further information on the law's requirements and penalties are available at www.state.il.us/agency/idol.

Senate Bill 3568 was sponsored by Sen. William Delgado (D-Chicago) and Rep. Elizabeth Hernandez (D-Cicero) and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2011.

 

###

Pages

Subscribe & Listen to Reader Podcasts

On Stands Now

 

Tagged Content

Two Ways to Subscribe

1. Subscribe to free weekly e-mail content updates.

You'll get both the current official narrative challenge and What's Happenin' in the Quad Cities.
(Did you know we publish a new Real Astrology and RCR Crossword every week?) 

Subscribe!

* indicates required

2. Get 12 monthly issues mailed first class for $48

Get 12 issues mailed monthly for $48 per year.

Get the printed Reader edition mailed to you (or anyone you want) first-class for 12 months for $48.
$24 goes to postage and handling, $24 goes to keeping the doors open!

Click this link to Subscribe now.