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Gov. Pritzker signs Reimagining Electric Vehicles Act Amendment

Solidifying Illinois’ position as a leader in the emerging electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing industry, Governor JB Pritzker signed an amendment on Dec. 21, 2022, to the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois Act into law, further incentivizing EV production across the state.

“Here in Illinois, we are leading the electric vehicle revolution,” said Governor JB Pritzker, “Today’s REV amendment signing sends a clear message to EV manufacturers that we are the best place in the nation to call home, thanks to our competitive incentives and ambitious clean energy goals. It’s no wonder that companies like Lion Electric, TCCI, and Rivian have expanded their footprints throughout our state, and I look forward to welcoming more EV businesses to Illinois in the coming years.”

In addition to the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois Act (REV) is designed to make Illinois a leader in the fight against climate change, making the state a hub for EV and auto battery production. The new incentives offered through this legislation will support existing Illinois automakers seeking to transform their current plants into EV production plants, bolster the state’s entire EV ecosystem by giving manufacturers the ability to ramp up production of EV parts and provide those manufacturers with additional flexibility in determining which incentives work best for them as the market evolves.

Specifically, the tax credit available to Illinois automakers that retain employees as they transition to EV production is increased to 75 percent of their income tax at the statewide level and 100 percent of their income tax if they operate in an Underserved or Energy Transition Area.

The REV Illinois Act includes tax credits for income tax withholding, training costs, tax exemptions, and investment credits, as well as allowing local jurisdictions to reduce property taxes for EV projects. Crucially, the legislation prioritizes underserved communities and communities impacted by energy transitions.

“This law will make it easier for automakers and car parts manufacturing companies to qualify for tax credits—opportunities that can help expand local businesses and support working Illinoisans,” said Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford). “I am proud to support this bill and see this as a major win for manufacturers in our state.”

“This measure is an important tool in making sure our manufacturing regions, such as the Rockford area, remain competitive and continue to attract investment,” said Representative Dave Vella (D-Rockford).  “Our state is home to a tremendously skilled workforce, a rich manufacturing heritage and an infrastructure ready to meet 21st-century demands. This bill is another opportunity to bolster our state’s standing as a national leader.”

“With this bill, and Governor Pritzker and House Democrats’ commitment to electric vehicle manufacturing, Illinois is poised to become the first name in developing and building the cars of tomorrow,” said Representative Michael J. Zalewski (D-Riverside). “These credits send the signal the Illinois is ready to welcome innovative manufacturing and to make the adjustments necessary to stay on the cutting edge of a rapidly growing industry.”

The administration is continuing to aggressively recruit businesses to relocate to Illinois, creating thousands of jobs across the state. Governor Pritzker has also invested in an EV innovation center in Decatur and created three new Manufacturing Training Academies in Illinois. This includes a first-of-its-kind Electric Vehicle-Energy Storage Manufacturing Training Academy, preparing a talented workforce for a career in the EV industry.

The omnibus bill also extends the sunset of ABLE account deductions for taxable years beginning prior to Jan. 1, 2028, from Jan. 1, 2023. ABLE accounts are tax-free withdrawal savings accounts for people with disabilities or their family members to save for disability-associated expenses. These accounts and the amounts held in them do not disqualify people with disabilities from accessing means-tested programs like SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid.

“By signing this bill, we will be adding a level of protection and security to taxpayers in Illinois who are seeking exemptions during tax season,” said Senator Villanueva (D-Chicago). “Illinoisans with disabilities have long had to choose between saving for future care and qualifying for essential services. Extending ABLE gives them the freedom to save for care without losing benefits.”

The bill also reschedules due dates for Cook Country property tax payment installments from March 1, 2023 to April 1, 2023 due to 2022 2nd installments being delayed from Aug. 1, 2022 to Dec. 30, 2022.

4 Comments

  1. James on December 24, 2022 at 9:19 pm

    Another dumb ass move.

  2. Edwin Brooker on December 25, 2022 at 10:34 am

    If we are to buy Electric Cars, where are the Stations to charge the vehicle? Also how much is the cost to charge them ? Will the cost be under what we pay at the gas pump? Will the Electric Grid be improved and who pays for that?
    Lots of questions that need to be addressed before I invest in a electric auto.

  3. Marilyn on December 25, 2022 at 11:25 am

    If this new law makes it so easy for companies to come to Illinois and get tax credits and incentives to bring a business into Illinois, then why did some big companies move out of Illinois?

  4. Don Davis on December 25, 2022 at 10:56 pm

    If, people would dedicate the time and energy into the research of EV’s, they would understand the complete picture. The charging of Electric Vehicles can not be done by wind or solar at this time, and not anytime in the near future. Fossil Fuels are abundant and cheap. They also provide a means of self sufficiency this country needs. Why would a county stop producing their own energy, just to buy it at a higher rate from other countries that don’t follow EPA standards. Just food for thought. IMHO

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