Metro East Sun

Rep. Amy Elik provided an update on her recent activities and ongoing issues in her district, including local engagements, the Illinois State Fair, budget considerations, corrections developments, historic sites, and employment statistics.

Elik participated in the grand opening of the Route 66 Electric Sign Park alongside local leaders and the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau. The event featured music, food, and the sign lighting ceremony. "Congrats to all who played a part in this project!" she stated.

Additionally, Elik served on a panel at the Leadership Council of Southwestern Illinois' Legislative Session Wrap Up Breakfast in Collinsville. She shared updates on regional enhancement efforts while several colleagues also presented their work.

The Illinois State Fair is set to begin in Springfield on August 8 with special days such as Ag Day (August 9), Kids Day (August 10), Veterans Day (August 11), and Senior Day (August 12). The fair will feature agricultural showings, concerts, races, thrill rides, fair food, and various events until Family Day on August 18.

In terms of state finances, healthy revenues were reported for July 2024 due to one-time factors contributing to a $360 million year-over-year increase from personal income taxpayers. However, concerns were raised about future stability given potential changes in consumer spending influenced by high fuel prices or housing costs.

On corrections matters, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Corrections announced plans to rebuild two prisons: Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill and Logan Correctional Center outside Lincoln. The proposed move of Logan’s women’s prison to Crest Hill has caused concern among nearly 500 workers fearing job losses in Lincoln.

For those interested in exploring Illinois' historic sites, Elik recommended using a guide that includes information about National Historic Sites across the state.

Regarding employment statistics, unemployment rose slightly from 4.9% in May to 5.0% in June 2024 despite an increase of 10,400 new jobs driven by health services and government hiring. This rise marks a potential end to Illinois’ post-pandemic unemployment recovery as neighboring states continue to report lower jobless rates.

Elik concluded by inviting constituents needing assistance with state agencies or having concerns to contact her district office at 618-433-8046.