Vella Passes Legislation Promoting Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Growth

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As part of his efforts to create and keep jobs in the Rockford-area and across Illinois, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed bipartisan legislation last week that incentivizes electric vehicle manufacturing companies to operate in Illinois.

“With more automakers beginning to transition towards creating electric vehicles, there has never been a better time to take advantage of this trend and make Illinois a nationwide leader in electric vehicle manufacturing,” said Vella. “Not only does this legislation give companies the resources they need to make and keep their manufacturing plants in Illinois, it also ensures that we are creating thousands of high-paying jobs and bringing billions of dollars into our state’s economy.”

Last week, Vella passed House Bill 1769, also known as the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois (REV) Act, with overwhelming support from both parties. The legislation is focused on bringing additional jobs to the state by providing tax credits for companies that manufacture electric vehicles, parts and batteries in Illinois. The REV Act also provides protections for workers wanting to unionize in these plants, ensuring that they are able to receive the compensation and support they deserve. The bill has passed the House and Senate and is currently awaiting consideration by the governor.

“With the economic difficulties that we have faced over the past year and a half, we cannot afford to let this opportunity to bring jobs and resources into our community pass us by,” said Vella. “Electric vehicles have shown that they are here to stay, and with this legislation making Illinois an attractive destination for automakers, it is critical that we are securing these plants and bringing jobs into Illinois that will provide for residents for generations to come.”