Retired Marine Corps Lt. Col. and District 58 state Senate candidate Paul Schimpf of Waterloo recently explained how and why he supports the reforms necessary to move Illinois forward toward a revitalized economy with a responsive government, and away from the failed policies of current politicians and their predecessors.
Specifically, Schimpf said he supports adjustments to workers’ compensation, tort reform and term limits.
“Right now, Illinois has the seventh highest workers’ compensation costs in the country,” he said. “Neighboring states like Indiana and Missouri, who have lower costs, are taking jobs away from Illinois. Changes in the rules of causation will decrease workers’ compensation costs and encourage job creators to remain in Illinois."
On the subject of tort reform, Schimpf explained that Illinois is home to one of the worst lawsuit climates in the nation, ranking 46 out of all 50 states. As an attorney, he said he is aware of how damaging such a system is to the state.
“Common-sense tort reform to eliminate forum shopping will bring costs down and discourage frivolous lawsuits,” he said.
Schimpf also discussed term limits and why he supports the idea that if one wants to continue to stay in office, they must move up in position rather than maintain a position for over eight years, like House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago).
“We can’t truly move Illinois forward without addressing our dysfunctional political class,” he said. “I support term limits and believe they are an integral part of reforming our government that has failed the people of Illinois.”
Schimpf explained that he decided to run for office because he knows he can help foster change to what seems to be a currently broken system run by politicians more concerned with self-interest than the interest of Illinois residents.
“Illinois is home to over 12 million residents, is rich in natural resources, and a leader in agriculture and manufacturing,” he said. “It isn’t our state, but our state’s broken political system, that has created the mass exodus of residents and businesses.”
Established reforms to make the political system work for the people without increasing taxes or taking money away from important institutions, like schools, is important for the revitalization of the state, Schimpf said.
“Keeping the status quo or returning to the failed high-tax, big government policies of the Quinn-Simon Administration are simply not viable options if we want a brighter future for the next generation,” he said. “That is why I am supporting policies that will make Illinois more competitive and her government more responsive.”
The 58th district covers Monroe, St. Clair, Randolph, Perry, Jefferson, Jackson and Union counties.
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