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Dear Friends,
With the spring session of the General Assembly almost over, I have made progress in my efforts to end politics as usual by reducing fraud, waste, and corruption. In the coming months, we still must address the state budget, but our first priority must be restoring credibility to the budgeting process and improving the efficiency of our state agencies. Taxpayers deserve a high return on their investments. I also am continuing my efforts to put people back to work and improve Illinois’ economic outlook.
AT THE CAPITOL
Confronting Waste, Fraud, and Budget Abuse
Senator Kotowski is advancing legislation to prevent the state from awarding no-bid contracts. Senate Bill 375 blocks the automatic renewal of all contracts valued over $249,999, requiring these high-value contracts to once again go through the bidding process. It also requires the chief procurement officers of each state agency to prepare a report for certain contracts, accompanied by the justification for going outside the normal bidding process. Kotowski believes these reforms will significantly improve the transparency and accountability of the state’s contracting process.
“This is another step to reform how state government does business,” Kotowski said. “We’re using common sense and recognized business practices to save tax payers money and require transparency, accountability and efficiency. “
Kotowski is also holding a series of hearings to monitor state agencies’ progress toward reaching their goals and performance based outcomes. Kotowski believes state agencies should be held to same standards of efficiency as private companies, saving the taxpayers money and re-establishing the people’s faith in Illinois government. Last year, he insisted that the state budget include a provision requiring state agencies to formulate plans to improve their quality, accountability, and performance.
“Every state agency should honestly assess its performance and do what it can to improve,” Kotowski said. “This kind of initiative is what will help us protect the investment of Illinois taxpayers.”
Creating Jobs and Building a Brighter Economic Future
Senator Kotowski is continuing his efforts to create jobs through state investment and incentives. He is sponsoring Senate Bill 3710, which creates a 25 percent angel investment tax credit for taxpayers who invest in Illinois start-up companies. Individuals who invest in start-up companies are often referred to as “angel investors” because their seed money helps these small businesses get off the ground and become successful. “Illinois needs to compete with other states,” Kotowski said. “Many of our neighbors already offer incentives to small businesses. To keep and create good, middle-class jobs in Illinois, we must improve our business climate. Supporting innovative start-up companies is an excellent way to demonstrate our commitment to building a brighter economic future.”
This legislation has passed the Senate and awaits consideration in the Illinois House.
Updates
• Senate Bill 2551, the Public Corruption Profit Forfeiture Act, which requires elected officials to lose their campaign funds and surrender their profits resulting from corruption, has passed the Senate and awaits consideration in the House.
• Senate Bill 3655, an investment in Illinois’ high-tech industries, has passed the Senate. • Senate Bill 3654, which creates Emerging Technology grants, has passed the Senate.
• Senate Bill 2534, which expands the state’s investment in New Markets Development, has passed the Senate.
AT HOME
Focusing on Des Plaines
Senator Kotowski has worked with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the governor’s office, local mayors, and others to secure $2.3 million for road repairs and enhancements in the 33rd District. This month’s newsletter focuses on state funds that will be received by Des Plaines. For example, the state will provide funding for emergency repairs to Algonquin Road, valued at $435,000, to fix potholes and repair road surfaces. Kotowski also advocated for a $115,200 Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program Grant to provide tree enhancement along Rand Road, helping Des Plaines beautify its roadways and maintain its status as a Tree City USA community.
“People want to live in quality communities with good roads,” Kotowski said. “Landscaping and road repair will help attract families and businesses to Des Plaines.”
There is still a month of session yet to go, and I will continue to advocate for jobs, and to end politics as usual down in Springfield. I will do my best to keep you updated, and I always welcome your input.
Best Wishes,
Dan Kotowski
State Senator, 33rd District
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