Senator Andrew Chesney Named Champion of Free Enterprise by Illinois Chamber of Commerce
I am pleased to announce that I have been named a Champion of Free Enterprise by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce for strongly defending free enterprise and advocating for the furtherance of economic opportunities for all Illinoisans. Through the votes I took on behalf of the business community in 2023-2024, I earned an “A” grade on the IL Chamber’s legislative scorecard.
The Illinois Chamber’s staff and Government Affairs Committee rated all members of the 103rd General Assembly based on legislators’ votes on the key business legislation. The Champion of Free Enterprise Award was given to members who demonstrated through their voting record a commitment to legislation that frees the entrepreneurial spirit and supports Illinois’ job creators. The ranking bills in the Senate and House were selected based on their impact on the business community.
Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lou Sandoval had this to say upon making the announcement: “Senator Andrew Chesney has long been an outspoken advocate for businesses not only in his district, but the entire state. As a small business owner, Senator Chesney brings firsthand knowledge and experience of what it takes to run a business in this State and his legislative record reflects his commitment to making Illinois a more friendly place to do business. We are happy to award Senator Chesney the Champion of Free Enterprise Award.”
Click here to view the list of award winners and a summary of the bills that were used in the ranking process.
New Changes to Illinois CDL Testing
New changes to the Illinois Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) test went into effect on September 1st. These updates impact both CDL and non-CDL drivers with a J51 restriction. Notably, the parallel parking requirement has been removed from the test.
The basic control skills portion has been streamlined to focus on four steps: forward stop, straight-line backing, forward offset tracking, and reverse offset backing. Additionally, pre-trip testing requirements have returned to the pre-2015 rules.
Under the new update, drivers can now use a checklist during the pre-trip inspection, and test administrators are permitted to prompt drivers during examinations.
The Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) has released an updated section of the CDL study guide, found here.
Senator Chesney to Host Annual Pet Adoption Event on December 14
I will be partnering with the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport for a Pet Adoption Event that will be held on December 14 in Freeport. As has been done in the past, I will help highlight animals that are available for adoption with hopes of connection people with new pets from the shelter.
Those who attend the event will be able to meet dogs and cats that are looking for forever homes and begin the adoption process. The event will take place on Dec. 14 at the Friends Forever Humane Society, 966 A. Rudy Road in Freeport from Noon until 2:30 PM. Those with questions about this event are encouraged to call my district office at (815) 232-0774.
Highland Community College Receives $81,150 Literacy Grant for Highland Community College
Literacy unlocks opportunities for adults to more fully engage in their communities and enrich their lives. Additionally, when adults can read, write, do math, and use a computer, they are more likely to achieve personal goals.
I’m pleased to announce that Highland Community College (HCC) is receiving an $81,150 Adult Literacy Grant through the Secretary of State’s Adult Literacy Program. Funding for the program comes from state and federal sources.
I am always glad to see state and federal grant dollars coming back to the 45th District, and this allocation will go far in providing valuable adult literacy programming for the HCC service area.
The adult literacy program utilizes volunteer tutors to provide one-on-one instruction for adults who want to improve their reading, math, writing and language skills.
Girls Lead Program Now Accepting Applications
For the second consecutive year, the Illinois Council on Women and Girls is inviting girls in grades 5 through 12 to apply for the Illinois Girls Lead Program, a job shadowing and mentoring opportunity designed to connect students with women leaders in state government.
The Illinois Girls Lead Program offers a chance for young students to witness firsthand the impact women have on shaping Illinois. Participating mentors come from different areas of state government and serve in various leadership roles, including elected General Assembly women, policy directors, general counsels, chiefs of staff, agency directors, and more.
The shadowing opportunities are tailored by grade level, as follows:
- 5th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader in state government, followed by a short reflection on what each participant learned.
- 6th-8th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader, accompanied by an essay written by each participant on their mentor’s role, the office shadowed observed, and key leadership lessons.
- 9th-12th Grade: A minimum of three days shadowing a female leader and learning from her team. Participants will select an ongoing policy topic and write a research paper offering personal recommendations for solutions.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong desire to learn about the inner workings of state government. Applications are due by the end of the day on October 20th. To apply, visit the State Board of Education’s application page.
