Senate approves Fowler, Koehler legislation to support auto industry

SPRINGFIELD - A bill championed by State Sen. Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) and State Sen. Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) to incentivize Illinoisans to purchase vehicles manufactured in-state advanced out of the Senate Wednesday.

"My hope for this legislation is to encourage people to purchase vehicles manufactured right here in Illinois," said Sen. Fowler, a chief co-sponsor of the measure. "This bill aims to provide incentives which could put money back into consumer pockets. This is an example of how good bipartisan work can be done to provide incentives for hardworking Illinoisans."

Senate Bill 3609 offers Illinoisans the opportunity to apply for a $25 rebate on the title fee for cars and passenger trucks manufactured in-state. Consumers would have one year from the month the vehicle was manufactured to apply for the rebate.

"We make it undeniably clear that purchasing Illinois-made is the best decision for both workers and consumers by incentivizing residents to choose from the many high-quality vehicles we manufacture in-state," Koehler said.

"By supporting locally made products, we can spur economic growth within our communities."

The legislation now goes to the House for further consideration.