State Representative Paul Jacobs, a resident of Pomona, has spent over four decades helping Southern Illinois residents see the world more clearly—literally. As an optometrist, Dr. Jacobs has been a trusted figure in communities across the region. He has provided essential eye care and improved lives, one patient at a time.
"Optometry taught me the importance of precision and care, qualities I bring to my work in the legislature,” Rep. Jacobs said. “When I’m crafting policy or examining a patient, attention to detail matters."
Rep. Jacobs' journey into public service began in 2020 when he was elected to represent the 115th District. Following redistricting, he now serves the 118th District, covering Alexander, Pulaski, and Union Counties, along with parts of Jackson and Williamson Counties. His commitment to ethical reform and fiscal responsibility stems from his deep-rooted values as a lifelong Christian conservative.
Beyond his medical career, Dr. Jacobs and his wife, Rhoda, have nurtured their entrepreneurial spirit by founding Von Jakob Vineyard in Alto Pass. "The vineyard is a way to connect with the community and celebrate the beauty of Southern Illinois," Rep. Jacobs said.
As a Navy veteran, Dr. Jacobs brings discipline and integrity to his legislative work, serving on committees such as Health Care Availability and Access, Health Care Licenses, and Veterans’ Affairs. His dual roles as a physician and policymaker allow him to address healthcare challenges from a unique perspective.
Some of Rep. Jacobs legislation includes:
- HB1333: This bill looks to repeal the Reproductive Health Act and reinstates the Illinois Abortion Law of 1975. It defines "viability" to include when a fetal heartbeat is detected and creates new laws banning partial-birth abortions and allowing medical professionals to refuse to perform abortions. It restores previous language in various laws that was changed by the Reproductive Health Act.
- HB1340: This bill would require facilities performing abortions to offer women seeking an abortion after 8 weeks of pregnancy the chance to view an ultrasound of the fetus. Exceptions are made for medical emergencies. The bill looks to provide more information to women before they proceed with an abortion.
Rep. Hauter's contributions go beyond the operating room. As a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria, he mentors aspiring physicians, sharing his knowledge and passion for healthcare. His leadership roles in organizations like the Illinois Society of Anesthesiologists highlight his commitment to advancing the medical field.
Elected to the Tazewell County Board, Rep. Hauter has a proven track record in governance, serving on the Health Services and Property Committees. His appointment to the state’s Rare Disease Commission and membership in the Children’s Health Caucus reflect his focus on addressing complex health challenges.
Some of Rep. Hauter’s legislation includes:
Freeburg and Millstadt. He brings his 16 years of experience as a medical professional and business owner to the Illinois General Assembly.
Dr. Schmidt finds every possible way to keep costs down in his medical practice so he can pass savings to his patients, allowing more people increased access to needed healthcare services. He brings that same sensibility to his role as a legislator, championing legislation that cuts costs, lowers taxes and keeps money in the pockets of hard working Illinoisans.
Elected to the Tazewell County Board, Rep. Hauter has a proven track record in governance, serving on the Health Services and Property Committees. His appointment to the state’s Rare Disease Commission and membership in the Children’s Health Caucus reflect his focus on addressing complex health challenges.
Some of Rep. Hauter’s legislation includes:
- HB1141: This bill would ensure that health insurance policies in Illinois cover anesthesia services for any procedure, regardless of how long the anesthesia is needed.
- HB2351: This bill focuses on improving Illinois' health care workforce. It creates funding and support for medical residency programs, especially in areas with a shortage of doctors. The State Healthcare Workforce Council will oversee the program and help address workforce needs.
- HB2769: This bill would streamline the licensing process for doctors in Illinois. It would require the state to review and issue medical licenses and controlled substances registrations at the same time.
Dr. Schmidt finds every possible way to keep costs down in his medical practice so he can pass savings to his patients, allowing more people increased access to needed healthcare services. He brings that same sensibility to his role as a legislator, championing legislation that cuts costs, lowers taxes and keeps money in the pockets of hard working Illinoisans.
Rep. Schmidt's commitment to lowering taxes complements Rep. Jacobs' focus on ethical reform and fiscal responsibility and Rep. Hauter's emphasis on specialized healthcare initiatives and emergency medical services. Together, they represent a powerful force for positive change, advocating for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of Illinois residents.
Despite their different medical specialties, all three Representatives share a common goal: to leverage their medical expertise to create a healthier Illinois. Their unique perspectives as healthcare providers enable them to address issues such as healthcare accessibility, medical education, and public health policy with a depth of understanding that few legislators possess.
In an era where healthcare challenges are increasingly complex, the leadership of Representatives Paul Jacobs, Bill Hauter and Kevin Schmidt give us hope. As they continue to serve their constituents, their work shows the vital connection between health and governance, paving the way for a healthier Illinois.