McHenry Times

A recent Bloomberg News report highlighted a significant surge in the migrant population heading towards Illinois in the United States. The report indicated an astonishing 821% increase in migrants listing an Illinois address for immigration court cases between 2021 and 2023.

Governor JB Pritzker has been vocal about his commitment to providing services for migrants, aiming to make Illinois the "Most Welcoming State in the Nation" for non-citizens. Illinois stands out as one of only two states offering free healthcare for non-citizens and various other taxpayer-funded services. The state's expenditure on non-citizen programs has surged from just a few million dollars per year to approximately $1 billion per year in the past two years under Governor Pritzker's administration.

In response to the Governor's proposed tax increases to fund migrant services, a petition opposing the $1 billion tax hikes has been initiated. The petition aims to redirect focus towards programs benefiting Illinois citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as veterans, the disabled, and seniors.

The Legislative Audit Commission recently scrutinized the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's handling of the Business Interruption Grant Program, designed to aid small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The audit revealed that $11 million was erroneously paid to ineligible participants due to DCEO's deviation from the eligibility criteria set by the General Assembly. Furthermore, the decision to engage external partners for fund distribution led to escalated costs, with concerns raised over a $5,000 campaign donation made to a former DCEO Assistant Director.

Woodstock officials recently visited Springfield to engage in discussions on state and local issues with Senate Republican Leader John Curran. The meeting provided a platform to exchange ideas and concerns, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between state and local authorities.

Visitors interested in touring the Springfield Capitol during legislative sessions are encouraged to notify Senator Wilcox's office in advance to facilitate scheduling of meetings and interactions. Scheduled visits can be arranged by contacting the office at (217) 782-8000 or via email at wilcox@ilsenategop.org.