SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, to promote local tourism and create jobs by helping local convention centers compete for conferences and trade shows is now law.
"Increased tourism means more dollars spent in our communities at the businesses that put middle-class families to work," Smiddy said. "Neighboring states are working to be attractive to conventions and shows that can be so helpful to the local economy, and it's important that our community be competitive."
Smiddy sponsored Senate Bill 508 in the House. The bill creates a special grant for public convention centers, like the iWireless Center in Moline, to help them attract more meetings, trade shows and conventions to the state and region. The bill reimburses convention centers for incentives, such as reduced room rates for attendees, they offer to organization considering hosting a convention in the region, with restrictions.
"I'm always looking for ways to make our communities competitive and help local business, and this legislation will help our region grow as a convention destination - funneling the capital that accompanies these shows into the regional economy," Smiddy said. "This new law serves as a reminder we can work together to help local economies and maintain Illinois' reputation as an excellent destination."
The new law received bipartisan support on its way through the General Assembly and was signed into law on August 27, 2015.
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