Metro East Sun

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) has voiced concerns over Senate Bill 328, recently signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker. The new legislation requires companies registered to do business in Illinois to consent to the state’s “general jurisdiction,” allowing lawsuits against them in Illinois courts even if neither the plaintiffs nor the alleged harm are connected to Illinois.

Schmidt stated, “Illinois is struggling with population loss and job growth, and this law will impede economic development even more. This bill was passed despite not following the procedures outlined in the House Rules. This bill penalizes businesses, stifles investment, and fuels a legal climate that welcomes frivolous lawsuits. I stand with the job creators in our state who have taken a strong position against this bill.”

The passage of SB328 is being challenged by House Republicans in Sangamon County Circuit Court. They argue that legislative procedures were not followed when a “gut-and-replace” maneuver advanced the bill on the final day of the spring 2025 session, allegedly violating constitutional rules.

In addition to his stance on SB328, Schmidt is working with other House Republican lawmakers on a package called Relief for Working Families. The proposed bills aim to help working families cope with rising costs by supporting entrepreneurship, ensuring tipped employees retain all gratuities, and expanding opportunities for technical skill-building leading to higher-paying jobs.

One measure sponsored by Schmidt is HB 3807, which would establish the Illinois Trades Retention and Development Encouragement (ITRADE) grant program for students pursuing degrees or certifications in skilled trades such as electrical work, plumbing, masonry, steel working and construction.

“Many students decide to attend a technical school after graduating high school and this bill promotes the skilled trade industry and helps eligible students receive scholarship funds to pursue a degree or certificate from a qualified technical school in Illinois,” Schmidt said. “It’s important every student has the opportunity to excel in a career after graduating high school, and this bill is aimed to do just that.”

Continuing his community engagement efforts, Schmidt made his monthly food donation at Gordon Bush Alternative Center in East St. Louis this week. He met with Principal Darnell Spencer and social worker Catrice Johnson who lead outreach programs distributing pantry items throughout East St. Louis.

On energy issues, Schmidt criticized current policies he attributes to Democrats for reducing power generation capacity and increasing costs for residents: “We are fighting for affordability with improved energy strategies. Illinois families simply cannot afford to pay the bill for Democrats’ green energy fantasies.”

For those facing difficulties paying their energy bills amid rising electricity prices and extreme temperatures, applications are open for Ameren payment assistance through local LIHEAP agencies thanks to an additional $150 support program announced earlier this month. Ameren is providing $4 million statewide through assistance agencies; so far nearly $58 million has been distributed among Ameren customers this year.

For further information about energy assistance options across Illinois: https://www.wgil.com/2025/08/27/applications-open-for-ameren-bill-payment-assistance

Schmidt also marked recent events including presenting a certificate honoring Lebanon Lions Club’s 75th anniversary and meeting Mayor Dawn Keys of Dupo regarding infrastructure projects.

Residents can nominate businesses within District 114—represented by Schmidt since his election in 2023—to be recognized as Business of the Month via online form or phone call.

Recent news relevant to Illinois includes reports that it lags neighboring states on school choice following scholarship cuts; demands from DOJ regarding voter information; and changes reported about state financial statements.