Enyart Testifies at Illinois State House for Grand Tower Bill

Press Release

U.S. Congressman Bill Enyart (D-IL-12) testified today on behalf of Illinois State Senate Bill 2721, the Local Government Debt Reform Act, which amends the length of time flood prevention bonds can be used for levee repairs in Grand Tower. Enyart testified immediately after the House bill sponsor, State Representative Mike Bost (R -- 115), brought the bill to committee.

"Mr. Chairman, I'm sure you'll agree that this isn't about federal government or state government regulations, this is about the safety of families, homes, and small businesses. This is about providing a secure environment for natural gas pipelines, power plants, and rail transportation that affect the entire Midwest region of the country," Enyart stated during his testimony at the Counties and Townships Committee hearing. "I urge that Senate Bill 2721 be sent to the floor for a vote, so that government can stop hindering the levee project, and start fixing it," he concluded.

In June of 2013, Enyart was informed of the drain pipe collapse at the Grand Tower levee and has been working tirelessly ever since to ensure repair of the infrastructure. Today, he urged its expediency, "It's time for action for the residents of Grand Tower, and we all need to cooperate to address the real hurdles that face levee improvement," said Enyart. "This bill will provide Jackson County citizens the opportunity to address funding issues at the local level. Let's work together to give this project the attention and expediency that it deserves."

Immediately following the Counties and Townships Committee Hearing, Enyart and Bost were joined by State Senator William Haine of Alton for a press conference.

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