Metro East Sun

Representative Charlie Meier had a successful week on the House Floor as two of his sponsored bills passed with unanimous support before the 3rd Reading deadline. Meier spoke on House Bill 4179, aimed at helping rural areas secure adequate funding for ambulance services. "House Bill 4179 was brought to me because of all the problems we’re starting to have in rural Illinois," said Rep. Meier, highlighting the challenges faced by rural communities in receiving sufficient ambulance service funding.

Meier explained that HB4179 complements HB1470 passed in the previous session, which allows for the creation of emergency service districts. He emphasized the importance of empowering taxpayers through a voter referendum to decide on increasing the levy for ambulance services. "This gives the voters the right to say: hey, we need more service, we are willing to pay for it," Meier stated.

The bipartisan support for Representative Meier's legislation was evident as HB4179 passed the House unopposed with a vote of 105-0. Furthermore, the House backed HB5138, a bill that simplifies the process of obtaining information from the Illinois Department of Transportation. Meier highlighted the need to avoid redundant studies and costs borne by taxpayers. "Why should another study have to be performed if we already have it?" he questioned.

Both bills, HB4179 and HB5138, received overwhelming support in the House, with the latter passing unanimously with a vote of 109-0. The bills are now set to progress through the Senate for further consideration.

State Representative Charlie Meier represents the 109th District, encompassing portions of Bond, Clinton, Madison, St. Clair, and Washington counties. For more information on Representative Meier's work and how to get in touch, visit CharlieMeier.net or contact his district office at 618-651-0405.