SPRINGFIELD – Future Farmers of America chapters across Illinois could soon see more financial assistance thanks to grants that would be paid out through the Future Farmers of America Fund created through a measure championed by State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex).

“As lifetime FFA member myself, I am proud to champion legislation that has full support across the board,” said Joyce. “FFA taught me so many valuable lessons that I still hold and apply to my life as a farmer and state senator – and I want to provide those same opportunities for other students across our state.”

House Bill 5400 also allows the Illinois Secretary of State to issue FFA universal specialty license plates. The funds collected from the distribution of the decals will then go into the Future Farmers of America Fund. Anyone can apply for and be issued one of the plates for an additional $25 to their standard vehicle registration fee. For the original issuance, $10 will go to the FFA Fund, and for renewals $23 will go to the fund.

“The Future Farmers of America Fund will provide even more access to ag education,” said Joyce.

Supporters of the legislation include the Illinois Association of FFA, Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers.

HB 5400 passed the Senate Transportation Committee in a unanimous vote and heads to the full Senate for further consideration. 

SPRINGFIELD – A Representative Fran Hurley (D-Chicago) and Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) measure to support first responders via a tax check-off passed the Illinois House on Wednesday.

“First responders put their lives on the line for our community and we should have an easier option to give back,” Joyce said.

House Bill 4161 aims to increase donations to the 100 Club of Illinois by making a convenient donation option on individual state income tax returns. The 100 Club of Illinois is a nonprofit that provides resources, financial support, training and moral support to both the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and active duty first responders. All sworn federal, state, county and local first responders stationed in Illinois are included.

“I will continue to fight for legislation that benefits first responders and their families,” Hurley said.

Current law provides similar donation options on state individual tax returns for the following funds: Wildlife Preservation Fund; Alzheimer's Disease Research, Care, and Support Fund; Assistance to the Homeless Fund; Diabetes Research Fund; Hunger Relief Fund; and Ronald McDonald House Charities Fund.

“The 100 Club of Illinois has been serving the first responder community for more than 55 years. We are grateful for the opportunity to further promote the mission of the Club,” said 100 Club of Illinois CEO Caitlyn Brennan. “Funds brought in through this program will assist the Club in providing support to the families of our fallen heroes and the larger first responder community of Illinois.”

House Bill 4161 passed the House and awaits further consideration in the Senate.  

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) supported legislation that will increase the tax credit to teachers and other school staff who purchase classroom materials at public or private Illinois schools to $300.

“Educators deserve a break on the costs of classroom supplies” said Joyce. “This legislation will address the long-held practice of educators purchasing classroom supplies out of their own pocket.”

Senate Bill 1143 allows for a tax credit in the amount paid by the educator or other school staff like teacher aids or school counselors for classroom materials up to $300 beginning in taxable year 2023. In current law, the maximum credit allowed is $250.

“Educators always want what is best for the kids, allowing for an additional write off just makes sense,” Joyce said. “Educators invest in our children’s future, so we should invest in educators.”

At the highest reported amount in record, teachers spent an average of $750 on school supplies out of pocket during the 2020-2021 school year. Approximately 30% of teachers spent $1,000 or more on school supplies. Purchases often include professional development books, office supplies, tissues, art supplies, snacks for students who might not have enough food at home and clothing.

SB 1143 was approved by the Senate Thursday and will now head to the House for further consideration.

SOUTH CHICAGO HEIGHTS – Ahead of next Saturday’s Coffee, Conversation and Constituent Services event, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is reminding residents to take the opportunity to share ideas and concerns with their representatives in Springfield.

“Giving residents the opportunity to come to the table and provide input on what’s happening in our community or in Springfield is vital, and that’s why my office continues to host events like this,” Joyce said. “I look forward to talking with everyone over a cup of coffee and hearing about the issues that are important to them.”

The event will be held 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 5 at HiWay Bakery located at 2633 Chicago Rd., South Chicago Heights.

Senator Joyce aims to increase government accountability and accessibility by hosting this traveling event at different times, locations and dates in hopes of reaching working families across Will, Cook, Kankakee and Grundy Counties.

This event is free and open to area residents.Those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Joyce’s office at 708-756-0882 or visit his website at SenatorPatrickJoyce.com.