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Lawmakers from the Illinois Manufacturing Caucus, which will
highlight the role manufacturing plays in the state's economy,
discussed proposed legislation that would provide students
better access to a career in manufacturing.
Other components of their 2024 agenda include changing high
school graduation requirements, a daycare pilot program for
businesses, a workforce ecosystem and a scholarship program.
"Sarah [Hartwick, vice president of Education and Workforce
Policy for IMA] mentioned some of the exciting, unique bills
that are being proposed this session and from last session as
well, so we can work to get more employees in the skilled
workforce," said state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton. "To make sure, as
Mark [Denzler IMA president] said, we wrap around and are
providing all the needs to stay in their careers in
manufacturing."
State Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, said a strong
manufacturing industry means a strong Illinois.
"When we ensure that the manufacturing industry continues to
prosper, it will provide our state with economic and workforce
stability for generations to come," Villa said.
According to state Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, the newly formed
Illinois Manufacturing Caucus will continue its work throughout
the year.
"Our state has a robust history of manufacturing, and to build
on our successes, we must ensure our policies allow businesses
to flourish here," Rezin said. "This caucus will help shine a
light on how we can better support manufacturers in Illinois,
including ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy."
Manufacturers directly provide 650,000 jobs throughout the
state, and there are over 10,000 open manufacturing jobs in
Illinois.
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