Major Investment at Wieland in East Alton
On Wednesday, January 17, I participated along with state and local leaders, and company officials in a dedication ceremony to thank Wieland Rolled Products for their commitment to reinvest in Illinois.
Legislation I sponsored signed into law last June helped retain jobs and spur major investment in East Alton. Wieland Rolled Products (formerly known as Olin Brass) announced its financial investment and job retention plans at its East Alton facility.
I’m thrilled that Wieland Rolled Products chose its East Alton facility to reinvest in advanced manufacturing jobs in the Metro East. Wednesday’s announcement would not have happened without the collaboration and cooperation from state, federal, and local leaders coming together with company officials to keep these skilled jobs right here in East Alton.
Elik Co-Chairs Illinois Manufacturing Caucus
I’m proud to have partnered with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association on legislation to keep manufacturers in Illinois and remove barriers to those seeking to enter the manufacturing workforce. I look forward to building on these efforts in collaboration with my colleagues as part of the new Illinois Manufacturing Caucus.
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) proudly partnered with members of the General Assembly to form a new bipartisan and bicameral Illinois Manufacturing Caucus, which will highlight the critical role manufacturing plays in the state’s economy and advance issues important to the industry, ranging from education and workforce development to energy and tax policies.
Manufacturing is a key pillar of the state’s economy and represents the largest contributor of any industry to the state’s Gross Domestic Product. Manufacturers directly provide 650,000 jobs across Illinois, with every 10 manufacturing jobs supporting an additional 17 jobs in other industries. This multiplier effect is significantly higher than other industries in Illinois, meaning manufacturing expansion has the potential to generate higher secondary employment impact when compared to other sectors.
The Illinois Manufacturing Caucus will be Co-Chaired by Rep. Amy Elik, R-Alton, Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, and Sen. Patrick Joyce, D-Essex.
District Survey Results, Top 3 Issues Facing Illinois
In the spirit of transparency, I wanted to share with you the results I received from my recent survey sent to constituents in the 111th district. In addition to the information below, respondents overwhelmingly oppose “Medicaid-like” health insurance benefits to illegal residents, believe that local school boards should dictate sex ed curriculum for K-12 students, and the legislature should provide the public with at least 72 hours to review every bill before a vote takes place.
I will be sure to keep this feedback in mind this spring during the 2024 legislative session.
Celebrating Home Builders & Remodelers Association’s 50th Anniversary
On Friday evening I attended the Home Builders and Remodelers Metro East Association’s annual dinner and was proud to install the new 2024 President, Steve Macaluso. It was a really fun night talking with business owners who build and improve our communities.
House Back in Session Feb. 6
The Illinois House of Representatives will reconvene on Tuesday, February 6. You may watch the session live here.
Need Assistance with State Government?
If you have an issue or need help navigating state government. My office is here to help you. If my office may be of assistance, please contact my district office in Alton at 618-433-8046.