State Representative Ryan Spain (R-73rd District) has been honored by three statewide organizations for his advocacy on behalf of Illinois citizens. ABATE of Illinois, the state’s leading motorcyclist advocacy organization, and the Illinois State Ambulance Association (ISAA) both named Spain a 2025 Legislator of the Year, while the Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) named Spain an inaugural winner of their 2025 Legislative Champion award.
“I’m honored to be recognized by ABATE, the Ambulance Association, and the Credit Union League,” said Spain. “Ensuring good public policy that protects our rights and freedoms is enacted in Illinois is not an individual sport; it is achieved when citizens, organizations, and elected officials work together to solve problems.
“Even though I do not enjoy self-promotion, being recognized for my advocacy means a great deal to me, and I look forward to continuing to work with these organizations and others so Illinois is a place we can all be proud to call home.”
While Legislator of the Year honors are typically determined by a representative or senator’s advocacy and voting record on legislation, Spain is also the co-chair of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). JCAR is responsible for approving or rejecting administrative rules established by state agencies to carry out public policy after legislation has been signed into law. This process is often just as important as the drafting of the laws themselves to make sure they reflect the intent of state statutes and do not infringe on the rights of citizens. Spain’s advocacy on JCAR has received plaudits from many organizations during his time on the committee.
In their recognition of Spain, the ICUL noted his exceptional leadership, dedication, and significant contributions to the credit union movement, alongside that of State Senator Dave Koehler (D-46th District), who was recognized in the State Senate.
“We are truly grateful for Senator Koehler’s and Representative Spain’s leadership in the Illinois General Assembly. We appreciate their knowledge and understanding of issues important to the credit union industry,” said Ashley Sharp, SVP State Advocacy and Legislative Counsel, Illinois Credit Union League. “The strong support of leaders like Senator Koehler and Representative Spain will ensure that credit unions can continue to meet the financial needs of consumers across Illinois.”
ABATE PAC Chairman John “Hunter” Harris said of Spain, “Representative Ryan Spain has been a friend to ABATE from his beginnings in politics, and now is truly a Brother in the fight to protect motorcyclists’ rights and freedoms in Illinois.”
“Representative Spain has been a leader for the ambulance industry for many years,” said Kim Godden, President of the Illinois State Ambulance Association. “His thoughtful guidance has helped our industry receive vital reimbursement and reduce administrative burdens throughout state government. We are proud to recognize him as the Illinois State Ambulance Association Legislator of the Year.”
More information about each organization can be found on their websites, linked here: ABATE of Illinois, Illinois State Ambulance Association, and Illinois Credit Union League.