SPRINGFIELD—A plan to make Illinois more competitive in the data centers industry is one step closer to becoming law.
Under the plan sponsored by State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), companies operating data centers in Illinois would not have to pay sales or use tax for materials used in the construction or operation of a data center.
“Illinois has the opportunity to be a leader in the data center industry,” Sims said. “Right now, we are fourth in the nation in this fast-growing industry. Investing in companies that bring data centers to Illinois will bring revenue and jobs to the state.”
To qualify for the tax exemption, a data center must be located in Illinois, create at least 20 new jobs over a 60-month period and be carbon-neutral or get a certification under green building standards.
New data centers must have $250 million in new capital over a five-year period. Existing data centers must make that same amount over five years on or before Jan. 1, 2020.
Indiana and other neighboring states are building data centers that border the state of Illinois, putting the pressure on Illinois to stay competitive, Sims said.
“We cannot allow states like Indiana to monopolize this industry,” Sims said. “This tax exemption would make Illinois very attractive for those looking to start or relocate in this growing business.”
Senate Bill 1591 passed out of the State Revenue Committee Wednesday. It is set to head to the Senate floor for consideration.
Conference of Women Legislators’ scholarships are for women 25 years of age or older, who are Illinois residents, with plans to attend an accredited school in Illinois for at least six semester hours, either on-campus or online. COWL endeavors to support women of all income levels who, for various reasons, have not had the opportunity to begin or complete their education.
Applications must be postmarked by no later than April 30.
For more details and to apply, click here: http://bit.ly/cowlscholarship
This application is for students seeking an undergraduate degree. Applicants should be an accepted student at an accredited institution of higher learning to include community colleges, private institutions and certified vocational training programs. ILBC Members, ILBC employees, ILBC Foundation board members, and their immediate relatives are ineligible for the scholarship program.
Learn more and apply here: http://bit.ly/ilbcfscholarship
We will start extended constituent service office hours starting next month on April 1.
That's April Fools’ Day, but this is no joke. I want to hear your questions and concerns.
You can come out to our district office located at 8658 S. Cottage Grove from 4-7 p.m. on every first Monday of the month.
Click the video above to learn more.
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