CELEBRATE OUR OFFICE OPENINGS!
We are excited to invite you to join us for a series of open houses on Wednesday, June 11! We are teaming up with Senator Chris Balkema and Representative Jason Bunting to host events in Pontiac, El Paso and Dwight all in one day—with the hope of meeting as many of you as possible.
These open houses are a great opportunity to connect, ask questions, and pick up materials about state resources and services that might be helpful to you or your family. We’ll have light snacks, coffee, and friendly faces ready to welcome you.
We hope you’ll stop by one of the locations—we’d truly love to see you there!
STATE BUDGET REACTION
This year’s state budget process left a lot to be desired. At the end of the day once again financial impacts on our state that will be felt for a generation were passed under the cover of darkness with few in the public viewing and very limited discussion from your Republican representatives being allowed. This is not the way a $55.2 billion budget should be vetted. Read more of my thoughts on my Facebook page. (1) Facebook
The Illinois Chamber Responds to FY26 Budget: Tax Hikes Undermine Growth. To read the full statement, click here: Illinois Chamber Responds to FY26 Budget-colon- Tax Hikes Undermine Growth.pdf
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) released the following statement after the General Assembly adjourned the spring 2025 legislative session: Facebook
The 104th Illinois General Assembly adjourned its 2025 Spring Legislative Session. Throughout the session, the Illinois Municipal League fought to protect local revenues, preserve municipal authority and push back against harmful mandates and preemptions.
We’re proud to share our 2025 End of Session Summary, highlighting key legislative outcomes for municipalities across Illinois. Read the Summary here: file.cfm
LAW ENFORCEMENT
The SAFE-T Act strikes again. This week, two people charged with first-degree murder for the death of their 2-year-old child could not be held pre-trial because of provisions in this misguided law. The SAFE-T Act puts Illinois communities at risk. We can’t continue to put the rights of criminals ahead of victims. HOMER GLEN COUPLE CHARGED WITH… – Will County Sheriff’s Office | Facebook
AROUND THE DISTRICT
Pontiac shines as a wallet-friendly retirement destination with its vibrant murals and classic Americana atmosphere. This charming town boasts a cost of living that’s remarkably below the national average. Read more here: 11 Towns In Illinois Where You Can Live Large On A Small Retirement Budget
NEW LAWS
Most new laws take effect at the beginning of the year, but there are several that begin on July 1. More information available here: New laws and tax changes to take effect in Illinois on July 1, 2025 | WGN-TV