SPRINGFIELD – With a looming power shortage on the grid, Illinois received a major boost to its renewable energy sector thanks to a law sponsored by State Senator Bill Cunningham.

“There is an energy shortage in Illinois right now, and it is causing uncertainly, which leads prices to spike and potentially future brownouts,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “This legislation will help solve that problem by expanding renewable energy opportunities.”

The law aims to relax restrictive zoning regulations that have slowed wind and solar energy projects to a near stop in Illinois. Without this measure, the state would lose 17,000 construction jobs and over $8 billion in economic impact during construction.

This package will make energy bills more affordable, bring thousands of jobs to the state and have great economic impact on local communities.

"Sen. Cunningham's bill is exactly what Illinois needs to create more good-paying construction jobs," said Sean Stott of the Laborers' International Union. "Too often, wind and solar projects are being delayed for years, if not blocked permanently. This bill will bring more renewable projects online in Illinois and help create thousands of jobs in the process."

Public Act 102-1123 was signed into law on Friday and took effect immediately.

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham’s commitment to supporting the police, providing services to veterans, passing pro-labor legislation and providing tax relief to the middle class will continue as he was chosen by the voters to serve another term in the General Assembly.

Senator Cunningham was sworn in on Wednesday, to the office of State Senator, an office he has held since 2013.

“My commitment to protect the middle class and support our police is unwavering.” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “To the residents of the Southwest Side and Southwest Suburbs, I thank you for your continued belief in me.”

Cunningham was elected to the Illinois Senate in 2012 and was reelected in 2014, 2018 and 2022. The 18^th Legislative District includes several Chicago neighborhoods on the Southwest Side, like Beverly and Mt. Greenwood. Cunningham also represents several communities in the Southwest Suburbs, including Alsip, Oak Lawn, Evergreen Park, Chicago Ridge and Palos Heights.

“I will continue to put working people first in Springfield,” said Cunningham. “I look forward to continuing to work across the aisle to bring forth common-sense solutions that do the most good for the most people.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham advanced a measure through the Illinois Senate that makes it easier for a veteran non-profit to fundraise.

“This bill helps a public-private network provide more support services for our veterans,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “When veterans need assistance, it only makes sense to give the Illinois Joining Forces network a greater ability to fundraise.”

House Bill 5542 makes several changes to the Illinois Joining Forces network at their request. The bill removes the executive board, which allows the foundation to add an additional 18 members, nine of which can be appointed by the foundation themselves, to assist with fundraising.

The bill also changes a definition to allow other entities funded by the State to join the Foundation. IJF operations are supported by fundraising efforts that include soliciting private donations as well as public and private grant funding. IJF is not funded by state appropriations and all funds collected are considered private funds, though they are subject to financial and compliance audits in accordance with the Illinois State Auditing Act.

"The General Assembly's support of IJF's mission and its public-private partnership is critical in ensuring all those that served are connected to the resources they need to live the life they stood to protect,” said IJF Executive Director Brenda Osuch. “IJF is grateful for the work done by Senator Cunningham to advance House Bill 5542 through the Senate."

House Bill 5542 passed the Illinois Senate Thursday and heads to the governor’s desk.