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.

Grain Bin Safety Week is February 20-26

KANKAKEE – To prevent fatalities on the farm during the busy harvest season, Senate Agriculture Committee chair Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is joining officials in reminding farmers and farm workers to be cautious when working in and around grain bins.

“There is a responsibility that comes with living in a rural area, we have to continue to take care of friends and neighbors” Joyce said. “With delayed emergency response times, it is crucial to review all safety precautions.”

While essential to Illinois’ harvests, grain handling equipment and storage containers can quickly become dangerous. In 2020, Illinois Fire Departments responded to a nation leading 12 rescue incidents at Illinois grain bins and elevators.

“Often times we become complacent when doing tasks we have done a thousand times and for farmers that often means working in and around grain bins,” said IDOA Director, Jerry Costello II.  “Unfortunately, problems involving flowing grain can snowball quickly. That’s why it’s important to set aside time to go over safety measures, to prepare farmers for a potential grain bin emergency.”

To learn safety tips and find additional information to stay safe during harvest, click here.