Coping With Inflation and Rising Costs
Dear neighbor,
I wanted to share some new measures taking effect to help Illinoisans cope with inflation and rising costs. Several provisions took effect on July 1 of this year:
• The state's 1% sales tax on groceries is now suspended, and we instituted a freeze on the motor fuel tax for the next six months. Taken together, these measures will save Illinois families around $500 million.
• For ten days in August, the sales tax on school supplies will be reduced from 6.25% to 1.25%, making back-to-school shopping a lot cheaper. More details when that's closer to starting up!
• We're starting to calculate and process tax rebates for all individuals making less than $200,000 and couples making less than $400,000. We'll provide up to $400 in direct cash relief per household. These rebates will either be sent by mail or direct-deposited, depending on how you usually get your tax refund. But they'll take some time to process and send — we expect this assistance to go out in mid-September.
• Lastly, our new electric vehicle tax incentive just came online. If gas prices are causing you stress, consider buying an EV! The state of Illinois will provide a rebate of $4,000 off the purchase of any new or used electric vehicle purchased from now through September, and $1,500 off the purchase of an electric motorcycle. Learn more about the program here.
We know costs are high for everything right now: housing, gas, groceries, and more. These measures certainly won't reverse the effects of inflation. But we're hoping they put a few extra bucks back in your pocket and make these challenging times just a little easier.
If you're struggling to pay rent, pay bills, or afford needed medication, you can always call our district office at 773-853-2570. We'll connect you with the assistance programs that are available and do everything we can to help.
Finally, I want to acknowledge that as a community, we continue to grieve the tragic shooting in Highland Park on July 4th. It’s a moment for sorrow, anger, outrage, and hopefully for action. You can read my statement on what needs to be done by clicking here.
If you're struggling to process this tragedy and you need someone to talk to, I’d encourage you to call the NAMI Information Line at 800-950-NAMI. It's a great resource for information and referrals.
Thanks, be well, and stay safe —
Will
ELECTRIC VEHICLE REBATE
Owning an electric vehicle in Illinois just got a lot easier!
Illinois residents that purchase a new or used all-electric vehicle from an Illinois licensed dealer will be eligible for a rebate in the amounts set forth below.
A $4,000 rebate for the purchase of an all-electric vehicle that is not an electric motorcycle.
A $1,500 rebate for the purchase of an all-electric motorcycle.
Purchasers must apply for the rebate during an open rebate cycle and within 90-days of vehicle purchase.
Click here to learn more about how to apply for the program >>
GET VACCINATED AT HOME
Following the FDA's approval of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine for children, Chicago's At Home Vaccination Program is now offering vaccines for children as young as 6 months of age.
Click here to learn more and register your child for an at-home COVID-19 vaccination >>
CPS FREE SUMMER MEALS
CPS' Free Summer Meals program begins Monday, June 27 through August 12! Free lunch will be available to anyone under the age of 18 at 75 schools across the city. You don’t have to be a student at CPS to participate. Meals will be available Monday-Friday from 10am – noon.