Kifowit Introduces Legislation to Support Local Businesses

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, has introduced legislation to support locally-owned businesses in the community.

“I believe it is important to do everything we can to support the small businesses that support our communities,” Kifowit said. “Encouraging counties, townships, and municipalities to support and purchase from locally owned businesses recognizes the vital role our small businesses play in the local economy.”

House Bill 4774 directs local governments, when considering bids for contracts, to give preference to companies within or near the jurisdiction of that government. The bill provides that if the lowest bid is made by a non-local company, a bid by a local company that is up to 10% of the lowest bid will be given preference. Kifowit introduced the legislation in response to a company in her district losing out on a bid to an out-of-state company by a small margin.

“We often urge residents to shop local businesses so it’s important for local governments to shop local as well,” Kifowit said. “It is my hope that is legislation will help to an environment where small businesses are competitive and successful.”