Cunningham responds to the governors proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024

New Cunningham law promotes sustainable energy

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.

2023 TOI Scholarships | Senator Cunningham

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Cunningham inaugurated to continue serving in the State Senate

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.”