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Illinois House Speaker Welch Announces 2023 Legislative Priorities, Declares Assault on Small Business

December 13, 2022

Illinois House Speaker Welch Announces 2023 Legislative Priorities, Declares Assault on Small Business

This week, Illinois House Speaker Emmanuel “Chris” Welch announced four legislative priorities. Specifically mentioned as a top priority was Paid Family Leave. NFIB has steadfastly opposed Paid Family Leave and will continue to do so. On Tuesday, Speaker Welch issued the following statement: This morning, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch joined Biden administration policy experts to discuss and collaborate on legislative priorities for the upcoming legislative session. Items for discussion included reproductive health, common-sense gun reform, paid family leave, and lifting up America’s working families. “I truly enjoyed this thoughtful and insightful conversation with President Biden’s policy experts,” said Speaker Welch. “An overwhelming majority of Americans support these policy initiatives and, as Democrats, we need to ensure that we are better aligned on these issues so that we can deliver for people across this country.” “Illinois small business owners have been thoroughly battered the last few years, and policy makers are making it clear that they intend to continue the assault. From forced closures and restrictions, generational inflation, out of control fuel costs, labor shortages, minimum wage increases, bureaucratic retirement savings mandates, expanded unpaid leave requirements, small business owners are reeling and screaming for relief. And yet, Illinois policy makers are intent on additional burdens. This is yet another kick to the gut,” said NFIB Illinois State Director Chris Davis. The Illinois Legislature returns on January 4 for “Lame Duck” Session of the current General Assembly, before the 2023-2024 General Assembly is Inaugurated on January 11.

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Illinois House Speaker Welch Announces 2023 Legislative Priorities, Declares Assault on Small Business

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