$800 million budget hole
Our scheduled session day today was canceled by the Speaker. We have TWO weeks left until our scheduled adjournment and so far House Republicans have not been allowed to participate in discussions on putting together a budget proposal in the House.
This week, the Governor was forced to acknowledge that the “balanced” budget he proposed earlier this spring will likely be $800 million out of balance. That shortfall, due largely to push-back on multiple tax increases the Governor has proposed and was counting on to cover increased spending, was confirmed by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA).
This week the Governor sent a memo leveraging support for his tax increases by threatening budget cuts. You can read more about it here.
Cuts would certainly be the responsible way to go, but it’s clear we haven’t heard the last of the Governor’s proposed (or alternative) tax increases as a way to fill their budget hole. I’ll keep you posted.
Ferrero expands its Bloomington plant
A good piece of economic news for our region…The European-based global confections conglomerate Ferrero has expanded its Bloomington footprint into its first North American chocolate process plant.
The new factory is tooled to generate a wide variety of chocolate products for wrapped goods of all sorts. Ferrero sells candy and confectionery goods, under a wide variety of brands and names, in more than 170 countries.
Groundbreaking took place in early November 2022, and the plant’s official opening came earlier this week.
Claim your cash!
I’m teaming up with the Treasurer’s Office to help residents of the 105th District see if you have any unclaimed cash with the State, and if so, help you get it into your wallet. You may have funds from a forgotten bank account, stock dividends or some other source that belongs to you. Mark your calendar and join us on June 4th to Claim Your Cash!
At the Capitol
We laced up our sneakers in Springfield this week to raise awareness for the fight against cancer and to show our support to all those impacted by this terrible disease. Thank you American Cancer Society of Illinois for your continued life-saving work! #SuitsandSneakersIL
Thanks to Illinois Energy Association for “Bringing the Tour” to us at the Capitol! Ameren Illinois, ComEd/Excelon showcased their Mobile Command Equipment that improves restoration times for customers after major storms. The bucket truck ride was definitely a highlight!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Happy Mother’s Day Sunday to all of the incredible mothers who do so much for others! Make sure to show your appreciation for the mothers in your life Sunday and every day!