Burke Sponsors Measure to Cut Fees, Encourage Entrepreneurship

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Entrepreneurs would receive financial assistance in opening their first businesses under legislation being sponsored by state Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Evergreen Park, to create an Entrepreneur Learner’s Permit pilot program.

“Small businesses form the backbone of our state’s economy and it’s important we do everything we can to assist those looking to launch new companies here in Illinois,” Burke said. “This Entrepreneur Learner’s Permit would give many in our community the extra encouragement they need to open a new shop and help create jobs.”

Burke is sponsoring Senate Bill 1462 to create a new Entrepreneur Learner’s Permit program to encourage and assist first-time entrepreneurs, by reimbursing them for State fees associated with forming a business. Under her measure, applicants would apply for the permit through the Department of Commerce and Economic Development. Currently, entrepreneurs must pay several fees for licensing and permits. The pilot program would run for one year, then DCEO would evaluate the program’s effectiveness and report to the governor and General Assembly by Feb. 1, 2019.

“I am always looking for ways to help boost our local economy and this program has the potential to help many first-time businesses owners in our community,” Burke said. “This is one more way we can help improve our state’s business climate and create jobs right here in our community.”

Senate Bill 1462 passed the House Economic Opportunity Committee last week and now awaits further consideration on the House floor.