Metro East Sun

Rep. Mike Bost, a member of the U.S. Congress representing Illinois’ 12th district since 2015, shared several updates on February 12, 2025, via social media posts. His statements addressed a range of issues including support for firefighters, land use for solar developments, and updates on Little Grassy Lake.

On February 12, Rep. Bost highlighted his meeting with the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. As one of the few firefighters in Congress, he emphasized his understanding of the challenges faced by those in this profession and discussed strategies to bolster support for fire departments. He stated: "Great to catch up with the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association today. As one of the only firefighters in Congress, I know firsthand the challenges faced by my brothers and sisters who do this dangerous job today. We discussed ways to better support our fire departments and ensure…"

Later that day, Bost addressed agricultural land use in relation to corporate solar development projects. He announced the reintroduction of his bill known as the PANELS Act aimed at preventing federal tax credits from being used to convert prime farmland into solar farms: "Prime farmland should be used for farming, not for corporate solar developers to gobble up acre after acre."

In another update regarding Little Grassy Lake, Rep. Bost informed constituents about recent changes impacting accessibility due to water level adjustments managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service: "I promised I’d keep you informed of my conversations with the Fish and Wildlife Service regarding Little Grassy Lake." He noted that some boat ramps had become inaccessible due to a drawdown in water levels.