Illinois Secretary of State

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Brief overview of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and its responsibilities

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office carries out various important duties and services that have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of Illinois residents. It is responsible for overseeing elections, managing public records and archives, regulating businesses and professions, administering organ donor programs, and handling vehicle registration and license plates. Additionally, the office plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and development throughout the state.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is an essential component of the state government as it ensures that Illinois residents have access to vital services and resources that support their well-being and quality of life. As the chief custodian of public records, the office ensures that these records are maintained in a transparent and secure manner. The office also plays a critical role in organizing and conducting elections, thereby upholding the democratic process and ensuring that citizens have a fair and equal say in the governance of the state.

Moreover, the office administers organ donor programs that enable citizens to donate their organs after their passing, potentially saving the lives of others. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office also regulates businesses and professions, promoting fair and ethical practices and protecting consumers. It manages vehicle registration and license plates, ensuring that drivers are properly licensed and that their vehicles are registered and safe for use on the road.

In addition to these services, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office promotes economic growth and development throughout the state, supporting Illinois residents and communities. The office is also responsible for preserving the state’s history and culture by maintaining and protecting important public records and archives.

Importance of the office in the state government

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office serves a critical role in the state government by acting as the primary custodian of public records and overseeing numerous programs and services that impact the lives of Illinois residents. Its responsibilities include ensuring fair and transparent elections, promoting economic growth and development, and providing vital services like vehicle registration and organ donor programs. Additionally, the office plays a crucial role in preserving the state’s rich history and culture by safeguarding important public records and archives.

Establishment of the office

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has a long history, dating back to 1818 when Illinois became a state. The first Secretary of State, Nathaniel Pope, was appointed by Governor Shadrach Bond. During its early years, the office had relatively few responsibilities and mainly served as the custodian of the state’s official records and archives.

However, the role of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office has significantly expanded over time. In 1867, the office was entrusted with overseeing the state’s elections, a duty that has become one of its most crucial responsibilities. Over the years, the office has also taken on additional duties related to business registration, vehicle registration, and other matters.

Today, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office is one of the most important and diverse agencies in the state government. It has a broad range of responsibilities and programs that impact the daily lives of Illinois residents. Despite its long history, the office remains dedicated to delivering top-notch services and resources that support the well-being and prosperity of the people of Illinois.

Key milestones in its development over time

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has undergone many changes and transformations over the years, with several key milestones marking its development and expansion of responsibilities.

• 1818: Establishment of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, with Nathaniel Pope as the first Secretary of State.
• 1867: The office is given responsibility for overseeing the state’s elections, marking a significant expansion of its duties and responsibilities.
• 1871: The Great Chicago Fire destroys many of the state’s records and archives, leading to the creation of the Illinois State Archives as a division of the Secretary of State’s office.
• 1905: The office is given responsibility for regulating automobile traffic and vehicle registration, a duty that has since become one of its most important responsibilities.
• 1949: The office is given responsibility for regulating business registration and licensing, expanding its role in promoting economic growth and development.
• 1961: The office is given responsibility for administering organ donor programs, a critical service that saves thousands of lives each year.
• 1984: The office launches the first Illinois license plate lottery, which has since become an annual tradition and an important source of funding for various state programs and initiatives.
• 1995: Jesse White is appointed Secretary of State, becoming the first African American to hold the office and serving for over two decades.
• 2018: The office launches a new initiative aimed at promoting cybersecurity and protecting the state’s electronic records and archives, reflecting the changing nature of government records and the importance of data security in the digital age.

These key milestones demonstrate the evolution of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office over time, reflecting changes in the state’s priorities and the expanding role of government in promoting the well-being and prosperity of its residents. Despite these changes, however, the office remains committed to its core mission of providing essential services and resources that support the people of Illinois.

Overview of the office’s responsibilities, including elections, business services, vehicle registration, and more

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is accountable for a wide range of duties and services that have a direct impact on the daily lives of Illinois residents. Among the critical responsibilities of the office are:

Elections: The office is responsible for overseeing all elections held in the state. This includes registering voters, verifying candidate eligibility, and ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently.

Business Services: The office is responsible for regulating and licensing businesses and professions operating in the state. The range of services provided by the office includes business registration, trademark and service mark registration, and professional licensing.

Vehicle Registration: The office manages vehicle registration and licensing, ensuring that all vehicles on Illinois roads are properly registered and licensed.

Organ Donor Registry: The office administers Illinois’ organ donor registry program, enabling Illinois residents to register as organ and tissue donors and save lives through donation.

State Archives: The office preserves and safeguards the state’s public records and archives, ensuring that they remain accessible to the public and are preserved for future generations.

License Plates: The office issues license plates for all vehicles registered in the state, utilizing fees from these plates to fund various state programs and initiatives.

Notary Public: The office appoints and regulates notaries public in the state, ensuring that they adhere to state laws and regulations.

Explanation of how these duties impact the lives of Illinois residents

The responsibilities of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office have a significant impact on the daily lives of residents in various ways. The office’s role in overseeing fair and transparent elections ensures the democratic process is upheld and gives citizens a voice in the state’s governance. Additionally, the regulation and licensing of businesses and professions by the office promotes economic growth, job creation, and innovation, while also guaranteeing the safety and ethical conduct of these businesses.

The administration of the organ donor registry program by the Secretary of State’s office provides a critical opportunity for Illinois residents to donate organs and tissues, potentially saving lives and improving public health. The maintenance and protection of the state’s public records and archives by the office gives residents access to valuable historical and cultural information.

The issuance of license plates for vehicles registered in the state by the Secretary of State’s office provides funding for various state programs and initiatives, improving services and resources for residents. The regulation of notaries public by the office ensures compliance with state laws and regulations, protecting the rights and interests of residents.

Jesse White, the current Illinois Secretary of State, is a accomplished politician and former athlete. He was born on June 23, 1934, in Alton, Illinois, and grew up in Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing project. After playing professional baseball, White returned to Chicago and pursued a career in education and public service.

White’s political career started in 1974 when he was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives. In 1993, he was appointed to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and was elected to the role in 1998. During his time as Secretary of State, White has focused on improving road safety, promoting organ donation, and increasing access to government services.

White has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame, the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame. He has also been recognized for his community service and philanthropic work, receiving awards such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award and the Mahatma Gandhi Humanitarian Award.

As a democrat, White has faced opposition from republicans such as Alexi Giannoulias and Mark Kirk, who have criticized his policies and performance. However, he has received support from democrats like Dan Lipinski, Bill Brady, and J.B. Pritzker. White has also been a strong advocate for statewide initiatives, such as promoting organ donation and improving road safety. With his long history of public service and dedication to improving the lives of Illinois residents, White is highly regarded by many in the state.

Despite retiring from politics, White remains active in the community and continues to advocate for important causes. He has a close relationship with WBEZ, a local radio station that frequently reports on his work, and has sponsored advertisements and newsletters to share his stories and updates with the public. White also has a strong presence on the web, with a well-designed website that provides information on his work and offers resources such as links to statewide services, schedules, and application forms. The website is updated regularly with news, events, and articles, making it a valuable source of information for residents.

White’s team of experienced and dedicated staff members is committed to providing excellent service to residents. They are available to answer questions and assist with various tasks, such as renewing driver’s licenses, updating records, and obtaining vehicle identification. With their hard work and commitment to serving the public, White and his team have made a positive impact on the lives of residents in Illinois.

Overview of his accomplishments and initiatives as Secretary of State

Jesse White, the Illinois Secretary of State, has been a strong advocate for promoting economic growth and development in the state. Under his leadership, the office offers various business services designed to support entrepreneurship and business activities in Illinois.

One of the essential services provided by the office is business registration, which involves registering new businesses operating in the state and ensuring they comply with all state regulations and requirements. The office provides information and guidance on business formation, structure, and registration, and also maintains a public database of registered businesses.

The office also registers trademarks and service marks used by businesses in Illinois, providing legal protection and preventing other businesses from using similar marks. It also regulates and licenses various professions in the state, such as real estate agents, architects, and notaries public, to ensure they meet state standards for education and experience.

In addition, the office offers services for checking the availability of business names before registration to prevent confusion and ensure that businesses have unique and distinguishable names. It also handles Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) writings, which are necessary for certain business transactions such as securing loans or leasing equipment.

These business services offered by the office under Jesse White’s leadership help to create an environment that supports entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation in Illinois, promoting economic growth and development in the state. The office’s efforts to modernize and streamline its services have been praised by business owners and entrepreneurs, who appreciate the convenience and efficiency of these services.

In recent years, the office has also embraced technology and innovation, offering various digital services and tools for businesses. For example, the office has a mobile app that provides quick access to services and information, and also offers helpful tips and resources for starting and growing a business. The office also has a strong social media presence, with active accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, where it shares the latest news and events, as well as information about its services and programs.

Jesse White and the Illinois Secretary of State’s office have made a positive impact on the business community in Illinois, providing a range of services and resources to support entrepreneurs and businesses. Whether you are just starting a new business or looking to grow an existing one, the office is a valuable resource for information and support.

Discussion of how these services support economic development in Illinois

The business services offered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office play a crucial role in supporting economic development in the state. By providing resources and support to businesses, the office helps to create a favorable business environment that promotes growth and prosperity. Here are some ways in which these services support economic development:

1. Business Formation: The office’s business registration service makes it easy for entrepreneurs to start new businesses in the state. By simplifying the registration process and providing guidance on business formation and structure, the office encourages more people to start businesses and become job creators.
2. Trademark and Service Mark Registration: By registering trademarks and service marks, the office provides legal protection to businesses and encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. Businesses are more likely to invest in developing new products and services if they know that their intellectual property is protected.
3. Professional Licensing: Professional licensing promotes consumer protection by ensuring that professionals meet state standards for education and experience. This gives consumers confidence that they are dealing with qualified professionals and encourages them to use their services.
4. Business Name Availability: By providing a service for checking business name availability, the office helps to prevent confusion and protect the identity of businesses. This is important for branding and marketing purposes and helps businesses to establish a distinct identity in the marketplace.
5. Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Filings: UCC filings are important for securing loans and leasing equipment, which are critical to the growth and success of many businesses. By handling UCC filings, the office ensures that businesses have access to the resources they need to grow and expand.

Overview of the vehicle registration process in Illinois

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office manages the vehicle registration process in the state, which is essential for ensuring that all vehicles on Illinois roads are properly registered and licensed. Here’s an overview of the vehicle registration process in Illinois:

The first step is for the owner to obtain auto insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements. The insurance company will then provide a proof of insurance card that will be needed during the registration process.

If the vehicle is new, the dealership will usually handle the title and VIN paperwork. However, if the vehicle is used, the owner must obtain a title and VIN from the previous owner or the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.

Next, the owner must complete a registration form that includes information about the vehicle, the owner’s contact information, and insurance details.

After completing the registration form, the owner must pay the appropriate registration fees, which vary depending on the type and age of the vehicle. The fees are based on factors like the vehicle’s weight, use, and location.

Once the registration is complete and the fees are paid, the owner will receive a license plate for the vehicle, which must be displayed on the vehicle while it is being driven on Illinois roads.

It’s important to note that vehicles like trailers and off-road vehicles may have different registration requirements. Also, certain counties in Illinois require vehicles to pass emissions tests and inspections before they can be registered.

Lastly, vehicle registration in Illinois must be renewed annually, with updated insurance information and fees paid each year. By following the vehicle registration process in Illinois, vehicle owners can ensure that their vehicles are in compliance with state laws and regulations, and that they are properly registered and licensed for use on the state’s roads.

Explanation of how the office ensures compliance with state laws and regulations

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is responsible for enforcing a wide range of state laws and regulations to ensure that individuals and businesses are in compliance. To achieve this goal, the office employs various strategies and approaches, such as inspections, licensing and registration requirements, audits, enforcement actions, and education and outreach initiatives.

One of the primary ways in which the office ensures compliance is through inspections. The office conducts periodic inspections of businesses, vehicles, and other entities to ensure that they meet state standards and requirements. For example, vehicles may be subject to emissions tests, while businesses may be subject to safety and health inspections.

Another key strategy used by the office is licensing and registration. The office is responsible for licensing and registering a variety of professionals and businesses operating in the state. By requiring licensing and registration, the office can ensure that these entities meet state standards for education, training, and ethics.

The office also conducts audits of businesses and individuals to ensure compliance with tax and financial regulations. These audits help to identify potential violations and ensure that entities are paying their fair share of taxes and other fees.

When entities are found to be non-compliant, the office has the authority to take enforcement actions, such as issuing fines, revoking licenses or registrations, or taking legal action. These actions serve as a deterrent to non-compliance and help to ensure that individuals and businesses follow the law.

Finally, the office provides education and outreach to individuals and businesses to help them understand and comply with state laws and regulations. This may include workshops, seminars, and online resources that provide guidance on compliance issues, helping to promote a culture of compliance throughout the state.

Explanation of the office’s role in overseeing elections in Illinois

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and accessibility of elections in the state. The office oversees voter registration, candidate filing, and ballot access, working to promote fair and impartial elections. In addition, the office is responsible for implementing measures to ensure the security of voting systems and prevent security breaches. The office also works to promote voter outreach and education, helping to inform voters about their rights and responsibilities, and encouraging voter participation. Through its work, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office helps to uphold the democratic process and ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Discussion of recent initiatives aimed at expanding voter access and increasing transparency in the electoral process

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has recently launched several initiatives aimed at making the electoral process more accessible and transparent for Illinois voters. These initiatives include automatic voter registration, which allows eligible voters to register when they interact with government agencies such as the DMV, making the process easier and more convenient. The office also offers early voting, giving voters more flexibility and reducing wait times on Election Day.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has also placed a strong emphasis on election security, implementing measures to prevent hacking and other security breaches. This includes partnering with the Department of Homeland Security to conduct risk assessments and implement best practices for election security, ensuring the safety and security of the voting process.

In addition, the office has implemented online voter registration, making it easier for eligible voters to register and update their voter information. The office is also committed to transparency in the electoral process, requiring political committees to disclose their financial activities online and providing access to election results and other data on its website.

By embracing new technologies and best practices, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office is dedicated to ensuring that elections in the state are fair, secure, and accessible to all eligible voters. The office is committed to performing at the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness, and is always looking for new ways to improve the electoral process for Illinois residents. Whether it is through innovative technologies, partnerships with other government agencies, or improved customer service, the office is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of Illinois voters.

Explanation of the office’s responsibilities in preserving and maintaining state records and archives

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is tasked with preserving and maintaining state records and archives to ensure that important documents and historical information are accessible and protected for future generations.

To achieve this goal, the office is responsible for archiving important state documents, such as legislative records, executive orders, and administrative files. This involves organizing, indexing, and storing these documents in a secure and accessible manner. Additionally, the office oversees records management for state agencies to ensure that they are properly managing and disposing of their records in accordance with state laws and regulations.

The office provides access to state records and archives, allowing researchers, historians, and members of the public to access important historical information. This includes providing assistance with research requests and maintaining a reference room for in-person access to records. The office also ensures that state records and archives are properly preserved by digitizing records and implementing conservation measures to protect fragile or deteriorating documents.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office also plays an important role in promoting the preservation of historical sites and landmarks. This involves providing guidance and support to local governments and historical societies to help preserve and protect these important pieces of Illinois history.

Discussion of the historical and cultural significance of these records

The records and archives preserved and maintained by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office hold significant historical and cultural value for the state and its people. Here are some examples:

Legislative Records: The office preserves and maintains records of the Illinois General Assembly, which date back to the state’s founding in 1818. These records include laws, resolutions, and other documents that provide insights into the state’s legislative history and the development of its legal system.

Executive Records: The office also preserves and maintains records of the state’s governors and executive branch officials, which provide valuable insights into the state’s political history and decision-making processes.

Historical Documents: The office maintains a variety of historical documents, such as maps, photographs, and letters, which offer glimpses into the daily lives and experiences of Illinois residents throughout the state’s history.

Cultural Artifacts: The office also preserves and maintains cultural artifacts, such as artwork and sculptures, that reflect the state’s diverse cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

By preserving and maintaining these records and artifacts, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office helps to promote an understanding of the state’s history, culture, and values. These records serve as important resources for researchers, historians, and members of the public who seek to learn more about the state and its people. Additionally, by preserving these records and artifacts, the office helps to ensure that the state’s history and cultural heritage are protected and accessible for future generations.

Explanation of the office’s organ donor registry program

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office manages an organ donor registry program, which allows Illinois residents to register as organ, tissue, and eye donors. Here’s how the program works:

Registration: Illinois residents can register to be organ, tissue, and eye donors through the Secretary of State’s office website or at driver’s license facilities across the state. Once registered, their decision to donate is recorded in the state’s donor registry.

Donor Designation: Registered donors can also indicate which organs and tissues they are willing to donate, as well as any restrictions or preferences they may have.

Sharing Information: The Secretary of State’s office shares donor registration information with the state’s organ and tissue procurement organizations, which coordinate the donation process with hospitals and medical facilities.

Promotion and Education: The Secretary of State’s office promotes the organ donor registry program through outreach and education efforts, such as partnerships with community organizations and public awareness campaigns.

By registering to be an organ, tissue, and eye donor, Illinois residents can help to meet the critical need for donated organs and tissues, and give hope to those in need of life-saving transplants. The Illinois organ donor registry program is an essential way for individuals to make a difference and contribute to saving lives.

Discussion of the impact of organ donation on Illinois residents

Organ donation has a significant impact on Illinois residents, both in terms of saving lives and improving quality of life for those in need. Here are some examples:

Saving Lives: Organ donation can save lives by providing critically needed organs, such as hearts, livers, kidneys, and lungs, to those in need of transplants. According to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, one donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation, and improve the lives of up to 75 others through tissue donation.

Reducing Wait Times: By increasing the number of registered donors, the organ donor registry program helps to reduce wait times for those in need of transplants. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, the average wait time for a kidney transplant in Illinois is 3-5 years, while the wait time for a liver transplant can be up to 2 years.

Improving Quality of Life: Organ donation can also improve quality of life for those in need of transplants, by allowing them to return to normal activities and live without the constraints of their illness. This can have a positive impact on the individual, as well as their family and loved ones.

Economic Benefits: Organ donation can also have economic benefits for Illinois residents, by reducing healthcare costs associated with chronic illness and providing a boost to the medical industry.

By registering to be an organ, tissue, and eye donor, Illinois residents can make a life-saving difference for those in need of transplants, and have a positive impact on the health and well-being of their fellow residents.

Overview of the license plate registration and renewal process in Illinois

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office oversees the process of license plate registration and renewal in the state, ensuring that vehicles are properly registered and comply with state laws and regulations. Here is a more detailed explanation of the process:

Initial Registration: When a person purchases a vehicle in Illinois, they must register it with the Secretary of State’s office within 20 days of purchase. To register, the vehicle owner must provide proof of insurance, the vehicle’s title or transfer of ownership documentation, and pay the appropriate registration fees. The fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and its weight.

Renewal: Vehicle registrations in Illinois must be renewed annually. Approximately 60 days before the registration expiration date, the Secretary of State’s office sends a renewal notice to the vehicle owner. The renewal notice includes instructions for renewing the registration, including options for renewing online, by mail, or in person at a driver services facility. Vehicle owners must provide proof of insurance and pay the appropriate registration fees to renew their registration.

Fees: The registration fees for Illinois vehicles vary based on the type of vehicle, its weight, and other factors. The fees include a base registration fee, as well as additional fees for special license plates, personalized plates, and other services. The Secretary of State’s office provides a fee chart on its website to help vehicle owners determine the appropriate fees.

Compliance: The Secretary of State’s office is responsible for ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations related to vehicle registration. This includes verifying insurance coverage and enforcing penalties for failure to register or renew a vehicle registration. Vehicle owners who fail to renew their registration on time may be subject to late fees, fines, or other penalties.

By following the license plate registration and renewal process in Illinois, vehicle owners can ensure that their vehicles are properly registered and comply with state laws and regulations. This helps to promote road safety and ensures that all vehicles on the state’s roads are properly licensed and insured.

Explanation of how the office uses license plate fees to fund various state programs and initiatives

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office uses license plate fees to fund various state programs and initiatives, with the majority of the funds going towards the Road Fund to support the maintenance and construction of roads, bridges, and highways throughout the state. A portion of the fees are also allocated to support critical programs such as environmental protection, public safety, and education.

The environmental programs, including the Illinois Clean Air Act and the Illinois Clean Water Act, receive funding from license plate fees to help promote a cleaner and healthier environment for Illinois residents. Public safety programs, such as the Illinois State Police and the Secretary of State Police, also receive funding to ensure the safety and security of Illinois residents. Additionally, education programs, such as the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy and the Illinois Veterans’ Scholarship Program, receive support from license plate fees to promote academic achievement and support students across the state.

By utilizing license plate fees to fund these important programs, the Secretary of State’s office is able to make a positive impact on the lives of Illinois residents and communities. The funds help to provide crucial support for programs that benefit the state in numerous ways, from promoting environmental sustainability to improving public safety and education. The office is dedicated to utilizing these funds in the most efficient and effective manner possible, ensuring that the programs and initiatives supported by license plate fees have a meaningful and lasting impact on the state of Illinois.

Recap of the importance of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office in the state government

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is an essential component of the state government, responsible for a broad range of duties and responsibilities. The office is responsible for overseeing critical functions, such as preserving and maintaining state records and archives, administering elections, registering vehicles, and supporting business development, all of which significantly affect the lives of Illinois residents. Additionally, the office operates crucial programs, including the organ donor registry and license plate registration process, that promote public health and safety.

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office also plays a crucial role in supporting the state’s economy and infrastructure by administering business services, funding environmental and educational programs, and maintaining the state’s roads and highways. The office’s duties and initiatives have helped shape the state’s history and cultural heritage, and its work continues to have a significant impact on the lives of Illinois residents today.

Call to action for Illinois residents to engage with the office and utilize its services

Illinois residents can play an active role in supporting the work of the Illinois Secretary of State’s office by utilizing its services and engaging with its programs. Here are some ways that Illinois residents can get involved:

1. Register as an Organ Donor: Illinois residents can register as organ, tissue, and eye donors through the Secretary of State’s organ donor registry program. By doing so, residents can make a significant impact on the lives of others and help to meet the critical need for organ and tissue donations in the state.
2. Renew Vehicle Registration: Illinois residents can ensure that their vehicles are properly registered and insured by renewing their vehicle registration with the Secretary of State’s office. This helps to promote road safety and support the maintenance of Illinois’ roads and highways.
3. Utilize Business Services: The Secretary of State’s office offers a variety of business services, including business registration and trademark registration, which can help to support entrepreneurship and business development in the state.
4. Explore Historical Records and Archives: Illinois residents can explore the state’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting the Secretary of State’s archives and reviewing its historical records and artifacts.

By engaging with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and utilizing its services, Illinois residents can make a difference and support the state’s priorities and initiatives. By doing so, they can help to ensure that Illinois remains a safe, prosperous, and vibrant place to live and work for generations to come.