Blurb about why Forefront rocks, caption for photo

Forefront plays a very hands-on role with policy and advocacy at the state level, employing registered lobbyist(s), aiming to pass proactive legislation and defend the sector when needed. This is vital, because 1) foundations do not have other coordinated representation with state officials and 2) Forefront is uniquely positioned to convene all types of nonprofits on issues that affect everyone regardless of their service area. On specific policy proposals, Forefront may serve as a champion, supporter, or convener. Staff center racial equity and use the decision-making filter to determine our position and role. We employ multiple tactics, including direct lobbying, calls-to-action, leveraging partnerships with other statewide organizations, and elevating the expertise of others to help keep our sector informed. Forefront’s policy team works closely with our philanthropic and nonprofit members, our Policy Committee, and other key stakeholders around the state to develop and/or identify proposals moving through the General Assembly every spring that impact our sector. Policy Priorities listed below are ones for which Forefront is a champion. Items on the Watch List are those that are championed by other organizations that we actively support or oppose, depending on how they affect the sector.

For more information, contact our team at PublicPolicy@MyForefront.org.

Jump to: Policy PrioritiesWatchlistState Lobbying RulesRelated Resources

 Policy Priorities

 

Illinois Gives Act – HB 1241 / SB 172

 


Workforce Development Through Charitable Loan Repayment – HB 4736 / SB 3273

 


Community Partner Fair Contracting Act – HB 5064 / SB 3457

 

 


Nonprofit Lobbying Fee Waiver – SB 1349 / HB 4266

 


State Budget

 

 Watch List

Forefront works closely with other nonprofit and philanthropic sector stakeholders, and supports legislation that is championed by key partners when it aligns with Forefront’s policy platform, commitment to racial equity, and sector interests. Conversely, at times we monitor or oppose legislation that may negatively impact the social impact sector. Here are bills we are watching currently. 

 

Nonprofit Investment Pool – HB 4908 / SB 3157

 

Diversity in Nonprofit Boards – SB 2930 / HB 4595

Business Diversity Task Force – HB 4566

Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act – HB 1530 / SB 1234

 

 

 State Lobbying Rules

The Secretary of State regulates state and local government lobbying (with the exception of Chicago). Please review our summary of Lobbying Rules for detailed information about maintaining compliance. 

 Policy Accomplishments

2022-23

 

Audit Threshold – HB 1197 / SB 72 – Enacted (P.A. 103-0121 – effective 1/1/24)

 

2021-22

 

Charitable Trust Fund – HB4544 – Enacted (P.A. 102-699, effective 4/19/22)


Support Post-Graduation Scholarship Programs – HR26 – Adopted (4/23/21)


Illinois Nonprofit Security Grant Program – HB4438 / SB3740 – Included in FY 23 Budget

 Related Resources

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