[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 120 (Thursday, September 12, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H5532]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PARTNERING FOR ILLINOIS' ECONOMIC FUTURE

  (Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to talk about the most 
pressing issues facing my region of Illinois, and that's creating good-
paying jobs and growing the economy. That's why, last month, I launched 
Partnering for Illinois' Economic Future. The goal of this initiative 
is to bring together regional leaders from across economic sectors--
from business, educational institutions, and community organizations.
  We gathered to discuss ways to increase collaboration, to create jobs 
and bolster the region's economy and manufacturing sectors. We held 
regional meetings in Rockford, Peoria, and the Quad Cities in 
conjunction with the University of Illinois. We will also be holding a 
District-wide economic summit later this fall.
  Before we do this, I want to hear directly from the hardworking 
people of my region to get their thoughts on how best to create 
economic opportunity for all. The insight and input from my 
constituents, combined with the information we collected from the 
regional meetings, will help us develop solutions that will benefit all 
of our communities.

                          ____________________