Rockford Sun

Illinois State Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) is celebrating a new law aimed at helping young entrepreneurs with guidance through a program under the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

Syverson gave a rundown about legislative activity, including the legislation for entrepreneurs in a May 20 Facebook post. 

"Young adult entrepreneurs will have an easier time starting and operating new businesses, thanks to legislation sponsored by Senate Republicans and signed into law by the Governor," Syverson wrote in the post. 

In his week in review note, Syverson hightailed the legislation, known as Senate Bill 2984, which allows "youth entrepreneurs," or those between the ages of 16 and 29, to receive help at Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers. Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers offer guidance to young business owners, providing them with knowledge and mentorship, as well as access to capital and resources. 

The bill was signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D-IL) on May 13, after it passed the Senate in February and the state House of Representatives at the end of March, Metropolis Planet reported. 

Sen. Darren Fowler (R-Harrisburg) also sponsored the bill in the state Senate. According to Metropolis Planet, Fowler pointed to the pandemic as hampering the economy creating a not-so-friendly business environment. He also stated that "helping youth entrepreneurs get started and succeed will boost local and state economies, generate jobs and provide revenues for communities." Fowler added by adding this additional support young entrepreneurs can more easily make the shift into self-employment.