Reitz, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association Present Business Grant to Eastman Chemical Company

SAUGET, Ill. – State Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, recently joined the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) to present the Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) grant to Eastman Chemical Company on behalf of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

“Illinois is facing a serious shortage of workers for skilled, high-wage jobs. This grant will ensure that Eastman Chemical Company can continue to attract, train and retain the next generation of skilled workers,” said Reitz. “Supporting local manufacturers and growing our economy is the first step in building a stronger Illinois by building a stronger middle class.”

Reitz was supportive of a major package of new laws aimed at attracting new businesses to the state and growing Illinois’ economy, including elimination of the franchise tax, tax credits for businesses that create new jobs, and a tax credit for businesses with apprenticeship programs.

Eastman manufactures chemicals and plastics used to make every day products like tires, oil and specialty vehicle lubricants.

“Manufacturing is a critical component of Illinois’ economy,” said Mark Denzler, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “We appreciate Rep. Reitz for working in a bipartisan manner to balance the state’s budget and reduce taxes on manufacturers while making a large investment to rebuild our state’s infrastructure.”

For more information, contact Rep. Reitz’s constituent service office by calling 618-282-7284 or by emailing RepNReitz@gmail.com.