Ammons Fighting for Equitable Job Opportunities, Passes Economic Equality Measure

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing her campaign for economic equality in Illinois, state Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Urbana, recently passed legislation to prevent the state from regulating markets in ways which dampen equitable business opportunities.

“Due to discriminatory and outdated business regulations, people in countless underserved communities across Illinois are facing an uphill battle when it comes to economic opportunity, and it’s time for that to end,” Ammons said. “Mothers and fathers looking to provide for their families are forced to overcome a network of prohibitively-demanding business licensing costs and excessive professional licensing requirements, to name a few, that are gatekeeping them from working for a better life.”

Ammons has made economic equity a priority during her time as a representative. House Bill 5576, which prevents regulations which clash with equal opportunities in business and in the job market, is just part of her effort. She also authored House Bill 5575, which creates a task force for studying ways to make economic opportunity more equitable statewide, and which passed last week with strong bipartisan support. Further, Ammons also leads the House Small Business, Tech Innovation, and Entrepreneurship committee, which has focused on legislation to bolster Illinois’ small businesses and job market while maintaining equitable opportunities for all communities.

“The business world right now is built to favor insiders and keep certain communities from reaching their full potential,” Ammons said. “However, I’ve had enough, these underserved communities have had enough and Illinoisans have had enough. In the end, it’s simple: the status quo is hurting people, so we have to make changes.”