ROCKFORD, Ill. – A measure backed by state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, which is currently on the governor’s desk, would make the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) responsible for designing an off-hours child care program to meet the needs of first responders and other third shift workers.

ROCKFORD, Ill. – Residents who have their vehicle stolen will no longer be on the hook for fines accrued by the thief under a proposal supported by state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford.

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As part of efforts to support families recovering from the pandemic and dealing with rising inflation, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, backed a state budget plan that provides direct relief to residents, suspends the grocery tax and freezes the gas tax.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – After listening to law enforcement on ways he could help them recruit and retain high-quality police officers, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed a plan Tuesday that invests in recruiting candidates, partners with higher education and updates officer benefits to make the position more attractive.

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As part of his efforts to support local businesses, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is backing legislation that reestablishes the Small Business Emergency Loan Program, which provides low-interest loans of up to $50,000 to small businesses.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – House and Senate Democrats announced a series of proposals Monday aimed at helping law enforcement – including mental health support, pay increases, retention incentives, retirement assistance, day care help and other benefits.

ROCKFORD, Ill. – State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is highlighting the 100th anniversary of the Illinois State Police (ISP) and the work that they do in conjunction with local law enforcement to keep communities across Illinois safe.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, wants to see vehicle registration costs reduced to $10 for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As part of efforts to address a teacher shortage and encourage Illinois students to pursue a career in elementary and secondary education, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is backing the creation of a public school teacher reimbursement grant program.

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As part of efforts to recognize Women’s History Month, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, is meeting with women entrepreneurs and encouraging residents to shop local and support women-owned businesses in the Rockford region.