Rockford Sun

Young professionals are rapidly becoming one of Illinois’ top exports, according to new data from SmartAsset. The report ranks Illinois among the top states losing millennials to more tax-friendly states. Specifically, it ranked states based on how many young households earning $200,000 or more left in 2022. Illinois came in second, with 1,323 households between the ages of 26 and 35 choosing to move.

Illinois’ high tax burden has long been cited as a major factor driving residents out of state and compounding its outmigration problem. This spring, Gov. JB Pritzker signed nearly $1 billion in new taxes into law, primarily to fund spending on the migrant crisis he invited to the state.

State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) commented on this trend: “As long as the Governor and his allies continue pushing their misplaced priorities at the expense of working families, residents will continue to seek genuine relief elsewhere.” He emphasized that state leaders need to recognize these trends and do more to protect families working daily just to make ends meet.

With the general election approaching, now is an important time for Illinois residents to learn about the voting process and how to register. Voter requirements in Illinois include being a U.S. citizen, living in an election precinct for at least 30 days prior to Election Day, and being at least 18 years old by the date of the general election. Individuals serving a sentence in a penal institution are not permitted to vote, and voters may only claim the right to vote in one location. For those who need to check their registration status or want to register, they can visit the Illinois Online Voter Registration Application Website.

National Farm Safety and Health Week is observed from September 15-21, highlighting safety in agriculture with this year’s theme being “Don’t Learn Safety by Accident.” Each day focuses on different aspects such as equipment safety, health and wellness, and reporting farm-related injuries. In 2022 alone, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 417 fatalities in agriculture. Recognized since 1944, National Farm Safety and Health Week encourages farmers to adopt safer practices.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will soon accept sealed bids for approximately 30 agricultural lease contracts covering the 2025-2029 crop years. These leases aim to enhance wildlife populations and improve recreational areas while promoting sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and wildlife habitats. IDNR sites with available leases will be listed on BidBuy.

To support the state’s specialty crop industry, the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will distribute nearly $525,000 over three years through the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant program funded by the 2018 Federal Farm Bill. The funding is available for non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and local governments with priority given to applications focused on educational outreach in socially disadvantaged communities.

Awardees include Elawa Farm Foundation; Freeport Student Garden; Fuller Park Community Development; Gardeneers; Illinois Specialty Growers Association; Southern Illinois University; University of Illinois; University of Illinois Extension.

For more information about these programs or opportunities mentioned above visit their respective websites.