Burke Continues Work to Address Economic Uncertainty as Member of Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission

OAK LAWN, Ill. – As Illinois continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic amid recently imposed Tier 3 mitigations, state Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Oak Lawn, is continuing to provide guidance to Gov. J.B. Pritzker on safely rebuilding the state’s economy as a member of the Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission. 

“While pandemic-related closures and new mitigations continue to impact businesses and local economies across our state, we must continue working to support business owners and create opportunities to help them remain open amid financial uncertainty,” said Burke. “It is also critically important that we keep the safety of both consumers and our workforce as a top priority as we work to address increasing cases of COVID-19 and explore ways to lift up Illinois.” 

Earlier this year, Burke was appointed as Co-Chair of the Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission, which advises the governor on reopening the state. The bipartisan commission consists of 14 members from both the House and Senate, and has been holding hearings regarding assistance to businesses, renters and homeowners, as well as the difficulties faced by those trying to navigate the unemployment insurance system. 

Burke has been a strong advocate for businesses and workers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and spearheaded legislation to aid business owners and essential workers during the Special Legislative Session that took place in May. Burke also played a role in securing over $40 million for job training and full funding of unemployment insurance, and backed additional measures to expand unemployment benefits for laid off and furloughed workers.

“More needs to be done to help those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic, and I am committed to finding ways to provide real relief to those who need it most,” said Burke. “By working together with my colleagues and the governor, I believe we can help keep Illinois moving forward and help families across our state get back on their feet.”