Rebuilding a business after a natural disaster can be a challenge. Insurance money will often cover some, but not all of the cost to fix a damaged building. That's why a pair of lawmakers wants to give a tax break to businesses hit by severe storms.
Senator Dave Koehler, a Democrat from Peoria, says while last November's tornado in nearby Washington resulted in mainly residential damage, he wants a law to prevent businesses from having to close.
"Small business is the backbone of the economy. We're trying to be proactive and anticipate what the obstacles might be for a business to rebuild."
The proposal would provide a property tax break that gradually decreases over 15 years. Koehler says it will not limit the amount of money going to local taxing bodies, like schools.