State Representative Kevin Schmidt (IL) | Representative Kevin Schmidt (R) 114th District
State Representative Kevin Schmidt (IL) | Representative Kevin Schmidt (R) 114th District
Kevin Schmidt, the representative for Illinois' 114th District, provided an update on his recent activities and upcoming events in his latest newsletter.
Schmidt began by noting his attendance at Scott Air Force Base where Major General Corey J. Martin handed over command of the 18th Air Force to Major General Charles D. Bolton. "It was an honor to attend!" he remarked.
In collaboration with Marsha from the Attorney General’s office, Schmidt hosted another Senior Fraud Seminar in Smithton. "My commitment remains steadfast to seniors and equipping them with information to ensure they remain safe from fraud," he stated.
Additionally, Schmidt awarded certificates from the Illinois General Assembly to children who completed his Summer Reading Program, wishing them luck for the new school year.
The Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is now accepting applications for the Small Equipment Grant Program, offering grants up to $26,000 for small firefighting and ambulance equipment. Applications must be submitted electronically or postmarked by October 1, 2024.
On education, Schmidt emphasized safety as children return to school. He highlighted data from the State Board of Education and Illinois State Police indicating that bus stops are particularly dangerous for young children. "Children expect vehicles to stop for them at the school bus stop. And so does law enforcement," he warned.
Regarding employment, Schmidt reported that Illinois' unemployment rate rose by 0.2 percentage points to 5.2 percent in July according to preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released by IDES. Despite a rise in nonfarm payrolls by 12,900 jobs in July, certain sectors such as Manufacturing and Leisure and Hospitality saw declines.
Schmidt also mentioned Morton Salt's decision to move its headquarters from Chicago to Overland Park, Kansas after more than a century in Illinois. The move is attributed to Kansas being perceived as more tax-friendly and business-friendly compared to Illinois.
Lastly, Schmidt announced several community events including a Coffee Talk with Rep. Charlie Meier at New Baden Civic Center and a job fair at Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus Multipurpose Room on August 23.
"I hope you’re enjoying your summer! I’ve been staying busy," concluded Schmidt before promising further updates soon.
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