McHenry Times

Lawmakers gathered in Springfield on November 12 for the start of the fall Veto Session. The first week ended without significant floor action, but Senate Republicans held a press conference urging Governor Pritzker to avoid raising taxes to address a $3.16 billion budget deficit.

Senate members also paid tribute to veterans as part of their annual Veterans Day recognition. Senator Craig Wilcox represented the Senate Republican Caucus and delivered a speech highlighting the importance of supporting veterans.

In legislative activity, the Senate Executive Committee discussed a bill to ban carbon sequestration injections near sole-source aquifers. Senate Bill 3968, which proposed banning this practice, was held in committee without a vote.

The final three days of the Veto Session are scheduled to begin on November 19 at the state Capitol.

The Veterans Memorial Display has returned to the Illinois State Capitol and is open for visitors until November 25. Hosted by the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus, this annual exhibit honors veterans with photos, stories, and a message wall where visitors can leave notes of gratitude.

A federal judge in East St. Louis recently ruled that Illinois' assault weapons ban is unconstitutional. The law banned certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines but faced legal challenges from gun owners and advocacy groups. On November 8, Judge Stephen P. McGlynn declared it unconstitutional and issued an injunction against its enforcement, which was stayed for 30 days while Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed an appeal.

Senate Republicans have called on Governor J.B. Pritzker to balance Illinois' budget without increasing taxes amid concerns over a projected $3 billion deficit for the next fiscal year. Since taking office, Governor Pritzker has increased state spending by more than 30 percent, reaching $53 billion last year. Critics argue that he turned temporary federal aid into long-term financial commitments.

This financial situation follows recent tax increases totaling nearly $1 billion to fund benefits for non-citizens among other expenses. GOP Senators have emphasized that Illinois residents cannot afford additional tax hikes given their current struggles.

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