2021

SPRINGFIELD — In honor of Black History Month, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today kicked off a virtual campaign to highlight and celebrate the achievements of African Americans in Illinois. This year’s national theme is The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity. “We are proud to celebrate Black History Month and honor the unsung heroes doing impactful work quietly within their communities,” Frerichs said. “These leaders are creating jobs, educating our youth, and breaking down barriers to lead to a more equitable Illinois. We must continue to uplift and support…

SPRINGFIELD — A record-shattering $15 billion is invested in the state’s two most popular college savings programs, Bright Start and Bright Directions, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. The balance was $7 billion when Frerichs was first elected in 2015. Changes Frerichs championed, especially the reduction of investment fees, more than doubled the balance and saved families $100 million. “We firmly believe that we must help people help themselves. Making it easier to save for college is a critical part of that mission,” Frerichs said. “We work every day…

SPRINGFIELD — Small non-profits that provide food, housing assistance, and workforce and economic development can apply for funding through the Charitable Trust Stabilization Program, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. “We are excited to kick off the new year with up to $250,000 available to small non-profits,” Frerichs said. “We all are experiencing the impact of the pandemic and this funding will help valuable organizations continue their mission to feed, house, and employ those in need.” The Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund assists small non-profits with annual budgets of $1…

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today issued the following statement regarding the election of Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch as the newly elected Speaker of the 102nd General Assembly: “We witnessed history today when members of the Illinois House of Representatives elected the first African American to lead their chamber,” Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said. “I have worked successfully with the new Speaker to pass legislation to make it easier to save for college and fought alongside him to ensure the life insurance industry pays death benefits after…

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois motorists saved $200,000 in 2020 because Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs and Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White agreed to waive electronic check processing fees to ease the financial burden on Illinoisans during this pandemic. “We are proud to work with Secretary White to waive e-check fees and encourage online transactions to make the payment process safe and convenient to help reduce the spread of Covid- 19,” Frerichs said. “This is a great example of public officials working together to provide relief to motorists during this pandemic.”…