Congresswoman Robin Kelly has dedicated her career to public service as an advocate for Illinois families. Since being elected to serve the 2nd Congressional District in 2013, she has worked to expand economic opportunity, community wellness, and public safety across the state, championing numerous initiatives to generate job growth, reduce health disparities, and end gun violence.
Congresswoman Kelly is Vice Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee (the main policy-writing body of the House) and serves on the Health, Communications and Technology, and Consumer Protection and Commerce subcommittees. Her Energy and Commerce work is focused on expanding access to healthcare, consumer protection for American families and economic development.
As the daughter and granddaughter of small business owners, I know firsthand how small business ownership can help a family achieve the American Dream.
Small businesses and independent contractors are critical to the strength of the American economy. Creating an economic environment for small businesses to succeed is top of mind in Congress. I am committed to ensuring that small business owners from all backgrounds have the opportunity to grow and thrive in Illinois.
My top priorities for small businesses include:
I proudly supported the American Rescue Plan, a groundbreaking relief fund to elevate Americans and small businesses that suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic. This included the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, helping over 4,000 restaurants, bars, and other food establishments in Illinois stay open during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Affordable healthcare is a top priority for many small business owners and employees. Because of this, I fought to protect the Affordable Care Act that provides small business owners with access to affordable health care and provide tax credits for small business owners that offer employee health insurance coverage.
I understand the importance of hearing firsthand the concerns of small business owners and independent contractors. This is why I established a Small Business Advisory Council to help keep me and my staff informed about the issues small businesses face everyday. I also host roundtables and meetings with small business owners in the Second District to ensure my office can continue to be a resource for small businesses as they grow and contribute to our local community.