Seeking to provide assistance to low-and middle-income Illinois families, State Senator Dale Fowler will serve as the Senate Republican representative on the Illinois Commission on Poverty Elimination and Economic Security.
“It is an honor to serve as a member of the Illinois Commission on Poverty Elimination and Economic Security and to be a voice for the people of this state currently confronting the daily realities and challenges of living in poverty,” said Sen. Fowler.
The Commission, which was signed into law earlier this year, is tasked with creating and adopting a strategic plan that will develop long-term anti-poverty programs. The Commission will meet twice a year and hold at least 6 public hearings throughout Illinois to gather information, hear testimony and encourage input from members of the public.
The Commission is made up of 25 members, with Senator Fowler serving as one of only four state lawmakers named to the task force.
“Sadly, even in the best of times, poverty remains a profoundly serious issue in our state, especially in Southern Illinois where poverty rates remain high,” said Sen. Fowler. “Now, as we continue to deal with the ongoing consequences of the COVID-19 health crisis and the economic impact of this pandemic, it is more important than ever that we do what we can to help those struggling in our state, create opportunities, and support our job creators. I remain committed to working with my fellow commission members to help create a brighter future for the people of Illinois.”
Goals for The Commission outlined in state statute include reducing poverty in Illinois by 50% by 2026, eliminating child poverty by 2031 and eliminating all poverty by 2036. The plan will be available in spring 2021.