Dupage Policy Journal

The First Annual Disability Resource & Job Placement Expo, sponsored by Senator Seth Lewis along with State Representatives Jennifer Sanalitro and Amy Grant, was held on September 18 in Carol Stream. The event brought together more than 300 members of the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community, caregivers, and family members at the Fountainview Recreation Center. Over 60 organizations provided guidance, information, and job placement opportunities.

The expo included workshops on transit options and reduced fare programs, a disabled workers trainee program through Illinois’ Department of Central Management Services, and a session on computer technology for home, school, and work for IDD community members.

Senator Lewis commented on the event's success: "I am thrilled beyond measure by the success of the First Annual Disability Resource & Job Placement Expo I sponsored with State Representatives Jennifer Sanalitro and Amy Grant. This comprehensive event, tailored to the needs of the IDD community, was held on September 18 in Carol Stream and it exceeded all of our expectations."

In other community initiatives, Senator Lewis announced a document shredding and food drive event scheduled for October 25 at Wheaton Park District’s Rice Pool Waterpark Lot. Participants are encouraged to bring sensitive documents for secure destruction as well as non-perishable food items or toiletries for donation to a local pantry.

Additionally, Lewis invited families to submit stories and photos of veterans for inclusion in the annual Veterans Day Wall of Honor display at the Illinois State Capitol from October 28 to November 13. Submissions are due by October 24.

Senator Lewis also met with Sierra Club advocates to discuss legislative priorities related to environmental protection. He stated: "I always enjoy conversations with different constituent groups because these meetings provide a wonderful platform for the respectful exchange of ideas."

During a visit to DuPage County Animal Services (DCAS), Lewis learned about animal welfare efforts including DCAS’s “Fetch a Friend” program that allows volunteers to take adoptable dogs out for day trips. DCAS works closely with DuPage Animal Friends to provide additional support beyond its operating budget.

On tax relief measures, Illinois families may qualify for education expense credits up to $750 per household if they meet certain criteria such as tuition or book rental expenses paid directly to schools. Educators can claim up to $500 each year through an instructional materials credit; joint filers who are both educators may receive up to $1,000.

Legislation supported by Senator Lewis was signed into law creating the Care for Retired Police Dogs Grant Program. The grant provides up to $1,500 annually per eligible retired police K9—funded entirely through sales of Illinois’ new K-9 Memorial License Plate—to cover veterinary costs after service.

To address rising utility bills across Illinois households not qualifying for traditional low-income assistance programs but still struggling financially, Senate Bill 2687 proposes rebates via a new Home Utility Relief Act funded at $500 million over two years.

Applications opened October 1 for this winter’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps income-eligible residents pay energy bills or reconnect services. Expanded eligibility now includes households earning up to 60% of state median income; applications will be accepted until August 15 or until funds run out.

Three local organizations received Adult Volunteer Literacy Grants totaling $260,000: World Relief Chicagoland in Carol Stream ($104,000), Metropolitan Asian Family Services in Roselle ($52,000), and Literacy DuPage in Wheaton ($104,000). These grants support adult literacy programs aimed at improving reading, writing, math skills—and broader workforce participation—in area communities.

Illinois taxpayers with outstanding liabilities from June 30, 2018 through July 1, 2024 can have penalties and interest forgiven if debts are paid between October 1 and November 17 under an amnesty period offered by the Department of Revenue.

Tourism figures released by state officials show that Illinois welcomed approximately 113 million visitors in 2024—an increase over previous years—generating $48.5 billion in spending statewide according to Tourism Economics data. The tourism sector contributed $4.7 billion in tax revenue while supporting more than 280,000 jobs as it continues recovering from pandemic impacts.

Lewis has served as Republican senator representing Illinois' 24th Senate District since his election in 2023.