New legislative caucus looks to improve one of Illinois' largest industries

[January 17, 2024]  By Andrew Hensel | The Center Square

(The Center Square) – A group of state legislators is joining forces with the Illinois Manufacturers' Association to address issues plaguing one of the state's largest industries.

Lawmakers from both parties will form the first-ever Illinois Manufacturing Caucus, including state Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, state Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, and state Sen. Patrick Joyce, D-Essex.

The group seeks to highlight the role manufacturing plays in the state's economy, according to Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association.

"To help grow our economy and attract new companies to Illinois, it's important we create opportunities for lawmakers to take a deep dive into the many issues impacting our industry every day," Denzler said. "Manufacturers across Illinois are making amazing and innovative products that are changing the world and transforming our communities, and we thank the founding caucus members for recognizing the importance and great promise of our industry."

Slaughter said the group will help Illinois become more attractive for businesses.

"I think it's about making sure we are assisting and building and cultivating a great state for manufacturing and industrial activity," Slaughter told The Center Square. "It's not just about those homegrown and home-developed manufacturers but also how we become a more attractive state regionally and nationally."

Illinois Manufacturers' Association President and CEO Mark Denzler during a news conference in Springfield - BlueRoomStream

The manufacturing industry directly provides 650,000 jobs throughout the state and needs to be supported, according to Rezin.

"Our state has a robust history of manufacturing, and to build on our successes, we must ensure our policies allow for businesses to flourish here," said Rezin. "This caucus will help shine a light on how we can better support manufacturers in Illinois, including ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy."

Slaughter added that as manufacturers in Illinois go, so does the rest of the state.

"Manufacturing isn't just critical to our state's economy, but the economic well-being of families and communities across Illinois," said Slaughter. "By focusing on ways to increase investment in Illinois, we can create opportunities for financial security and prosperity for all."

The group will meet for the first time during the spring session.