ROCKFORD – The Illinois Chamber of Commerce today named State Representative Joe Sosnowski, R-Rockford, a “Champion of Free Enterprise” for his voting record during the 2017-2018 legislative session. The Illinois Chamber’s Legislative Ratings tracks vote important to the state’s business community and grades legislators based on their support of pro-business issues during the two-year legislative session.
Among bills included in the report are the 32% tax increase, proposed red tape for call center operators, an electricity rate increase, expensive regulations to internet website operators, a $15 an hour minimum wage, a gross receipts tax on investment management services, and fake workers’ compensation reform. However, not all was bad. The Chamber included votes on legislation that will bring Illinois to the forefront of 5G internet, state preemption of autonomous vehicles, comprehensive procurement reform, and renewing the state’s vital EDGE tax credit.
“I am proud to stand with the men and women of our state and local business community,” Representative Sosnowski said. “They are the catalysts of growth, innovation and job creation here in the Rockford region. We still have a long way to go to restore Illinois’ status as a job-friendly state, but I remain confident in our future because of the strong backbone represented by local job creators.”
To be eligible for the “Champion of Free Enterprise” award, a lawmaker must have received an average of 85 percent or better voting record over the previous two General Assemblies with the Illinois Chamber. Representative Sosnowski scored a 97% rating during that period. The average GPA for both legislative chambers during the current 100th General Assembly was 49%.
“The Chamber’s Legislative Ratings lets Illinois families, small businesses, and taxpayers know if legislators voted in favor of private sector job creation and a stronger economy,” said Todd Maisch, president, and CEO, Illinois Chamber of Commerce. “While most Illinois lawmakers continue to provide lip service to the need for pro-growth reforms, these 47 lawmakers are committed to supporting and defending Illinois employers throughout the State.”
The Illinois Chamber of Commerce will be visiting northern Illinois this autumn to present Representative Sosnowski with his “Champion of Free Enterprise” award at a local chamber event.
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