SPRINGFIELD – If a person’s license plate or sticker is stolen from their car, they won’t be on the hook for paying the replacement fee under a new law led by State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr.
“Imagine the stress of seeing someone violated your personal belongings,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Now imagine the exacerbated stress of wondering how you are going to pay to fix the problem so you don’t get fined. We should never penalize victims – no matter how big or small the price.”
Under Sims’ law, if a person’s license plate or registration sticker is stolen, they will be able to receive a new one at no cost. Previously, drivers would have to pay either $6 for a new plate, or $20 for a new registration tag if stolen.
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. – the lead sponsor of some of the state’s most comprehensive criminal justice reforms – released the following statement upon reviewing the body camera footage of the shooting of Sonya Massey by a Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy:
“I am angry, frustrated, disgusted and disheartened that another innocent Black life was taken unjustly. As I watched this very painful exchange my heart ached for Ms. Massey’s family, friends, and the entire Springfield community, particularly its Black residents who simply want to be treated fairly and equitably. No person should ever have to fear that calling for help will end in death.
“We have taken steps to increase transparency, require body cameras to be worn and ensure dangerous individuals remain detained – all steps which have swiftly led us toward the first steps of justice for Sonya Massey. Nothing we do will bring Ms. Massey back, but we must take steps to find justice for her and her family. We must hold the former officer accountable as we push for answers to find out why he was hired in the first place, so it doesn’t happen again.
“I stand with Sonya Massey’s family, friends and the entire Springfield community as they mourn this tremendous loss and call for justice.”
SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. was proud to lead a fiscally responsible spending plan that led the state to end Fiscal Year 2024 approximately $125 million, or .2%, above projected FY24 General Funds revenue estimates.
"Illinois reached new fiscal milestones and we are seeing tangible proof that responsible governance and steadfast stewardship yield positive results,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Today's announcement underscores our commitment to restoring fiscal stability and rebuilding trust through transparency and prudent financial management."
The state closed out the fiscal year with a $4.67 billion General Funds cash balance, up from $3.85 billion at the end of the previous fiscal year. Of the $4.67 billion balance, $2.1 billion was in the Budget Stabilization Fund – also known as the Rainy Day Fund – and $1.74 billion was in the General Revenue Fund.
Credit reporting agencies and investors monitor state cash reserves to assess Illinois’ financial position and gauge the state’s ability to weather potential economic downturns. Improved fiscal conditions led by Sims and Illinois Democrats have led to lower credit spreads and reduced cost of borrowing for Illinois taxpayers.
"As we celebrate nine credit rating upgrades, the elimination of bill backlogs, six consecutive balanced budgets, and achieving the highest ever General Funds balance, we affirm our commitment to disciplined fiscal management that prioritizes taxpayers and supports working families,” said Sims. “As the Senate Majority Appropriations Leader, I remain committed to doing the work necessary to ensure that Illinois continues to enact responsible budgets and remains on the path toward fiscal stability, investing in and uplifting marginalized people, helping business grow and thrive, making our communities safe, all while prioritizing our communities and people who need the most assistance.”
Sims has made responsible fiscal management one of his top priorities and will continue to fight for responsible, balanced budgets in upcoming fiscal years.
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is alleviating financial burdens on organizations that help vulnerable populations to ensure access to essential nutrition services by exempting home-delivered meals from sales tax for Medicare and Medicaid recipients
"For many Medicare and Medicaid recipients, home-delivered meals are a lifeline – providing essential nutrition and support," said Sims (D-Chicago). "However, the added burden of sales tax can create financial strain for those already facing economic challenges. This law removes this barrier to access, ensuring that vulnerable individuals can receive the nourishment they need without additional financial burden."
Under Senate Bill 3476, home-delivered meals – like from Meals on Wheels – provided to Medicare and Medicaid recipients will be exempt from sales tax when payment is made by an intermediary, such as a Medicare Administrative Contractor, a Managed Care Organization, or a Medicare Advantage Organization, pursuant to government contract.
Home-delivered meals play a crucial role in supporting the health and well-being of seniors and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to remain independent and healthy in their own homes. By exempting these meals from sales tax, Sims’ law promotes equitable access to nutrition services and alleviate financial barriers for those most in need.
"Access to nutritious meals is fundamental to overall health and quality of life," said Sims. "By exempting home-delivered meals from sales tax for Medicare and Medicaid recipients, we can ensure that all Illinois residents have access to the support and resources they need to thrive."
Senate Bill 3476 was signed into law Monday and takes immediate effect.
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