Lori Reimers has focused on government relations for nearly 20 years with an extensive background in Illinois politics and the legislative process, in addition to a unique skill set in public relations, including media and grassroots development. Her key accomplishment is establishing effective relationships among interested groups – lawmakers, agency leaders, trade associations, companies, and organizations – to foster positive environments and effectuate.
Throughout her career, Reimers has successfully represented clients on legislative and policy issues before the General Assembly and administration; initiated, drafted, and promoted legislation on behalf of clients, including testifying before legislative and regulatory committee hearings; served as a liaison with trade associations and coalitions, often leading negotiating discussions; established strong working relationships with executive agencies and staff to promote administrative initiatives and advance statewide policy; developed and coordinated legislative events including Legislative Days at the Capitol and in-depth government-immersion educational programming; written and presented informative programs to clients and organizations on a variety of government topics.
In her work in media relations, Reimers has served as the chief media contact, preparing and distributing press releases to appropriate news outlets, conduction interviews and responding to media inquiries on behalf of clients, and coordinating proactive media events. Her work has been featured in both statewide and national media via television, newsprint, and radio, while she has also appeared as a guest commentator with legislators on cable television. She has been fortunate to expound on those skills in her personal work in the community as well.
Reimers believes strongly in the value of utilizing local grassroots-based lobbying and has had significant success in coordinating and managing an effective network to promote change inside and outside the capitol building. Her work in creating opportunities for local organization representatives to build and improve relationships with key officials has proven invaluable to her clients.
Reimers began her career in state government as a committee and budget staff member for the Illinois House of Representatives Republican Caucus, analyzing legislation and appropriation bills assigned to the Constitutional Officers and State Government Administration Committees. She also coordinated several political campaigns for Illinois House seats. After leaving Capitol staff, Lori served as Legislative Liaison for the Illinois Department of Revenue, analyzing legislation, testifying before committees, and answering constituent inquiries for state and federal officials. She then worked with a private lobbyist before becoming the Director of Government Relations and Public Information Officer for the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, the state agency responsible for administering and promoting student financial aid programs. Lori served ISAC for sever years prior to joining State Farm’s Public Affairs Department in 2006. In her work as a State Farm Government Affairs Specialist, Lori was responsible for working with State Farm agents and associates in establishing relationships with government officials, promoting education and involvement in the government and political processes, and working with the Illinois General Assembly in advocating for the insurance industry. She has earned her CLU, ChFC, and FLMI insurance education designations.
Lori received a Bachelor of Arts degree in history at Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois and a Master of Arts degree in historical administration at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. She lives in Springfield with her husband Scott and children Sophie and Andrew.