Belt: Budget prioritizes public safety, allowing for safer, more trusting communities

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt issued the following statement after the Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget:

“The budget represents the commitment our state has to bettering the lives of all Illinoisans and allowing for a safer, more prosperous future. The budget is balanced and a strategic approach to fiscal planning that prioritizes the needs of our state.

“I have always been a strong advocate for public safety. As the Chair of the Senate Appropriations- Public Safety and infrastructure Committee, I am pleased to see the millions of dollars in investments to public safety and violence prevention that will strengthen our communities. The budget recognizes the role that law enforcement plays in public safety and provides funding for resources, such as vehicles and body cameras, to equip these agencies with the tools they need to prevent and solve crimes. In addition, over $200 million in funding for the Reimagine Public Safety Act to prevent gun violence and expand funding for youth employment programs is included within the budget. These investments will foster safer environments for all and ensure a brighter future for Illinois residents.”

“The budget also calls necessary attention to education at all levels. I stand firm in my belief that investing in education for our youth is critical for the future of Illinois. Investments such as these promote well-being among all Illinois residents and fiscal responsibility for the state."

Belt secures tax credits and exemptions for aircraft engines, EV manufacturers

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Senate passed a revenue package Wednesday containing a number of tax credits and tax emptions, including two measures championed by State Senator Christopher Belt that provide tax incentives to electric vehicle manufacturers and aircraft engine suppliers and manufacturers.

“The electric vehicle industry showcases the potential for the future of our state,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Not only do these measures incentivize growth of the electric vehicle and aircraft engine industries, but also it will drive economic prosperity in Illinois while reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering a sustainable business environment.”

The Aircraft Engine Sales Tax Exemption exempts materials, parts and equipment used in the modification, replacement, repair and maintenance of aircraft engines from sales tax. Belt, as chair of the Senate Appropriations-Public Safety and Infrastructure Committee, was actively involved in budget negotiations and advocated for this tax exemption, originally Senate Bill 2210, to keep business in the state. Currently, businesses are serving aircraft engines for the Chicago area and Metro East from neighboring states because they offer this tax exemption.

The revenue package also contained an addition to the Renewable Energy Vehicle Act. Belt originally sponsored Senate Bill 2576, which would allow electric vehicle manufacturers or businesses that intend to convert or expand to EV manufacturing to qualify for Renewable Energy Vehicle tax credits. The businesses will be required to commit to making at least $500 million in capital investments and retaining at least 800 full-time employees.

“Expanding these tax incentives will lead to an increase of good-paying jobs and economic development,” said Belt. “This is truly a testament to Illinois’ commitment to economic growth, environmental sustainability and technological advancement.”

Senate Bill 1963 passed both chambers with bipartisan support and heads to the governor’s desk.

Belt champions volunteer firefighter tax credit in bipartisan revenue package

• Revenue
• Senate Bill 1963
• Volunteer Firefighters
• EMS

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt applauds the inclusion of a tax credit for volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services personnel in the recently passed state revenue package.

“Volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods. They bravely respond to emergencies, risking their lives to save others,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “However, in recent years, retaining dedicated volunteers has become challenging. This tax credit is a small token to honor and thank these individuals for the work they do.”

To qualify for the $500 tax credit, people must serve as a volunteer firefighter for at least nine months of the year and receive no more than $5,000 in compensation for their services during the taxable year.

Illinois has struggled with a shortage of firefighters and EMS personnel volunteers. Providing an incentive will encourage these volunteers to stay long-term.

“These volunteers are the backbone of our emergency response systems and some communities rely on volunteer fire departments when a crisis occurs,” said Belt. “With this tax credit, we are sending a clear message that we value and appreciate their dedication to protecting our lives and the communities we live in.”

Senate Bill 1963 passed both chambers with bipartisan support and heads to the governor’s desk.

Senate approves Belt measure to ensure fair compensation for teachers

• Teacher Shortage

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure out of the Senate Wednesday that aims to ensure fair compensation for teachers and protect school boards from undue financial burdens.

“This measure empowers our state’s educators and recognizes the invaluable contributions they make every day,” said Belt (Swansea). “Not only would this enhance the financial well-being of teachers, but it also would contribute to maintaining the high standard of education in our schools across the state.”

House Bill 300 would establish the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability as the agency responsible for adjusting the teacher minimum salary in accordance with annual increases in inflation rates.

The legislation also addresses concerns related to potential higher pension contributions resulting from increased minimum teacher salaries. It would ensure that school boards would not be penalized for fulfilling their obligation to provide competitive compensation to teachers.

“The elements in this measure promote fairness, stability and excellence in education,” said Belt. “By prioritizing fair compensation for our teachers and supporting school boards, we are making a profound investment in the future of our state.”

House Bill 300 passed the Senate.