SCHAUMBURG, IL – Small and midsize manufacturers, alongside the Technology & Manufacturing Association (TMA), are voicing their strong opposition to SB25’s latest amendment as the bill would impose a significant financial burden on Illinois consumers and businesses, with estimated costs reaching $1.5 billion.
The amendment, which the IL House approved 70-37 last night, is projected to lead to substantial rate increases for both residential and commercial energy users. The association argues that at a time when businesses are navigating economic uncertainties, introducing legislation that increases operational costs is counterproductive to fostering a competitive business environment in Illinois. Plus, this amendment would give an unprecedented amount of power to the unelected Illinois Commerce Commission.
“Small and midsize manufacturers, which are crucial to the state’s economy, would be disproportionately affected by the higher energy rates,” said TMA Executive Vice President Dennis LaComb. “It is deeply concerning that legislators in Springfield are spending their final days in the veto session pushing forward bills that would increase the cost-of-living for working families, not lower it. This proposal will directly harm the manufacturers who form the backbone of our state’s economy and the residents who can least afford another rate hike.”
TMA is urging state senators to reject the amendment to Senate Bill 25 and instead focus on policies that support economic growth, reduce costs for families, and ensure a stable and affordable energy future for all Illinoisans.
In response to this measure, TMA formally filed a witness slip in opposition, signaling its commitment to protecting its members and the broader business community from harmful legislation.
About TMA: Founded in 1925, TMA is an independent trade association exclusively funded by industry and solely focused on small and midsize manufacturers. TMA has nearly 900 members representing approximately 39,000 manufacturing employees and more than 27 million square feet of manufacturing plant.