Media

With tax season around the corner, there’s one resource you may not be familiar with: your U.S. Congress member.

The Internal Revenue Service help is handled by the constituent services department at every congressional office.

Roger Hougham, a retired Marine and a farmer from McLean County, said he had been trying to get a $22,250 refund from the IRS for more than three years.

He had just about given up, but then his accountant suggested he contact the office of U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen.

The clock is ticking for lawmakers in the nation’s capitol to find common ground on a new farm bill before the November presidential election.

Last year, lawmakers signed off on extending the current farm bill until September 30, just days before the general election.

However, Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen, who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal, is voting no unless lawmakers include a nutrition program.

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen said he will not support a version of the farm bill that does not include funding for a federal nutrition program.

The Moline Democrat representing the 17th Congressional District told reporters during a tour of Heartland Community College's agricultural complex Wednesday that plans to eliminate funding for the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan in the farm bill are a "non-starter" for him.

Natural Fiber Welding hosted U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen Tuesday afternoon, in the congressman’s effort to highlight sustainable manufacturing jobs.

The company creates items, such as shoes and handbags, out of plant-based materials. The main material is called MIRUM, a plant-based material that is plastic free and isn’t leather, although it looks like it.

The Rockford Democrat toured the facility, learning more about the company and how it creates products. The company collaborates with dozens of businesses, including BMW, Patagonia, and H&M.

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen said he will not support a version of the farm bill that does not include funding for a federal nutrition program.

The Moline Democrat representing the 17th Congressional District told reporters during a tour of Heartland Community College's agricultural complex Wednesday that plans to eliminate funding for the USDA's Thrifty Food Plan in the farm bill are a "non-starter" for him.