Law creates task force to examine barriers to economic opportunity

 

From Illinois Business Journal news services

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Bruce Rauner signed legislation Friday creating an Equal Economic Opportunity Task Force.

The task force will examine barriers to economic opportunities in economically depressed communities, issues discouraging local investment, community concerns, current economic conditions and establishes comprehensive economic development policy for businesses of all size.

State Sen. Napoleon Harris, D-Harvey, was the chief Senate sponsor of the measure.

“Task forces like the one … can be an important first step in creating successful economic development in communities that are facing troubles,” Harris said. “I want to see local businesses thrive. I want to see economic development grow to new levels, and see people in our communities have the opportunity to start businesses. The first step in this process is research.”

The task force will research the stated areas and will be required to prepare a report summarizing the findings of its examinations. Recommendations will be provided as to whether further legislation is needed to address any problems identified by the task force.

The legislation, House Bill 3840, is effective Jan 1.