Legislators in Illinois are preparing to return to Springfield this month for the start of the 2026 regular session. The Senate will reconvene on Tuesday, January 13, while the House is set to return a week later on Tuesday, January 20. Although there are several weeks where both chambers will be in session at the same time, their calendars differ.
Senator Craig Wilcox is finalizing his legislative agenda for the year and notes that all substantive bills must be introduced by Friday, February 6. He invites constituents to share ideas for legislation that could address community issues.
Wilcox has also launched his sixth annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive. The initiative encourages students from schools, church groups, scouting organizations, and other local groups to create homemade cards and drawings for seniors living in assisted living centers, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities across the 32nd Senate District. Cards can be dropped off or mailed to Wilcox’s Woodstock office until February 6. Those unable to deliver cards during office hours can call (815) 455-6330 to arrange a pickup.
For more information about participating in the card drive, individuals can contact Abby at amccarthy@sgop.ilga.gov or call Senator Wilcox’s office.
Wilcox recently published an opinion piece with Shaw Media and Northwest Herald outlining his New Year’s wish list for Illinois. In it he wrote:
“As Illinois turns the page to a new year, we are presented with a fresh opportunity to recalibrate our priorities and recommit to the principles that make our state safe, stable, and prosperous. My wish list for 2026 is rooted in a simple idea: Illinois should put its own citizens first and refocus efforts toward responsible leadership and prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
First and foremost, Illinois must restore a sense of fiscal responsibility. Decades of overspending, misplaced priorities, and short-sighted budgeting have left our state burdened with debt and taxpayers stretched thin. A new year gives us a chance to take an honest look at how we allocate resources. Every dollar should be measured against a clear question of whether the proposed spending improve the lives of Illinois citizens. Too often the answer has been no, as funds are diverted toward expansive programs that serve non-citizens and a liberal agenda, while critical services for taxpayers, especially those who have worked, served, and sacrificed for this state, struggle to stay afloat. It’s time to reverse that imbalance.
Public safety also belongs at the top of our priority list. The men and women in blue who protect our communities deserve not only our gratitude, but the tools, staffing, and support necessary to do their jobs effectively. Restoring respect for law enforcement and ensuring that state policy strengthens rather than undermines their mission is essential if we want safer streets and stronger neighborhoods.
Hand in hand with public safety is renewed cooperation and coordination between state and local governments and federal immigration authorities. Illinois cannot remain an outlier on this issue. Meaningful collaboration with ICE helps ensure that dangerous criminals are not released back into our communities and that our immigration laws are enforced consistently and responsibly. This is not about politics. It is about safety, common sense, and removing criminal illegal immigrants from our state and country.
The Majority Party in Illinois has forgotten that the primary purpose of state government is to take care of citizens who otherwise cannot take care of themselves. This includes seniors, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The legislature must stop short-changing programs and services for these vulnerable populations and redirect state resources toward the state’s primary mission of providing for those who need help the most.
A new year brings new hope. Let’s make the changes Illinois citizens have long been asking for, and that begins with responsible spending, safer communities, and a renewed commitment to the citizens who call this state home.”
The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) has updated its Online Fare Portal with features designed to simplify rider applications such as allowing eligible riders to switch fare programs without starting over; checking application status online; updating personal information directly through the portal; opting into electronic communications; among others.
Additionally, high school students planning on attending an Illinois college or university may apply for one of seven $2,000 scholarships offered annually by Township Officials of Illinois until March 2.
Wilcox was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois’ 32nd Senate District in 2018 after succeeding Pamela Althoff.
