Update from Extension Partners

Here is the latest information released this week. Send a note to ieafcslife@gmail.com if you want a copy of the fact sheet.

Legislative Update - May 11, 2011

Just a Reminder.........

Again the rumor is out there that Extension Partners and/or I have been directly involved in the decisions regarding the Extension reorganization.  So we will clearly state again that neither Extension Partners or I were involved in any way with the decisions regarding reorganization.  Nor did Extension Partners or I endorse or take any other position on the reorg.  Extension Partners continues in their mission to secure funding for Extension Programming, and especially for local Extension Programs.

Funding Alternative.........

A casino proposal supported by a coalition of downstate legislators - Democrats and Republicans - is gaining momentum.  Line items in the Department of Ag's budget would benefit if the casino legislation is passed.  Extension County Board Match line would appear to be a beneficiary to the tune of a couple million dollars. There is NO BILL NUMBER at this time, but we will let you know as soon as the proposed legislation takes form.  At that time we will provide you a list of legislator names to contact for their support.

ACTION PLAN 

1. Attached find the first 2011 "Did You Know" fact sheet.

2.  Use the back side of the sheet to create your local "Did You Know" sheet.  Did you know there are xxxxx number of 4-H clubs in xxxx county?  I'm sure you will come up with lots of great ideas.

3.  Visit your local Legislator's office and County Board offices to drop off the information.  If you can't drop it off, fax it, or scan and email.  I will be dropping the sheet off at all the legislators' Springfield offices.(The documents were created in Word so you should be able to manipulate them to suit your needs and email the files directly. In my experience, however, fax is more effective.J.H.)

Time frames.........

The House is hoping to have all of their budget bills passed out of committees by the end of this week. Then the process of the Senate and House trying to reach an agreement on a budget begins.  The rumor is that Speaker Madigan would like to have a budget agreement by May 20/21st. so they can move on to the district remap issue.  The deadline may be wishful thinking, and rumors are surfacing about overtime session......!

Next week is crucial.........perfect timing for 4-H Legislative Connection!  Join 4-Hers and volunteers at the Capitol May 17, 18, & 19.  Contact your local Extension office for details

Keep the calls, letters and visits going!

Thank you so much for all your work!

Pam Weber

 

PS from Jeanne: If you are receiving this update indirectly, that's great. But if you are not already a member of Extension Partners, please consider joining us. Annual dues are just $35 for individuals and can be mailed to Extension Partners, PO Box 5531, Bloomington, IL 61702-5531. Thanks for your support and interest!