McHenry Times

Following Governor J.B. Pritzker's recent budget address, Illinois Senate Republicans have expressed strong opposition to the proposed $55.4 billion spending plan, labeling it as unrealistic and burdensome for taxpayers. Senator Craig Wilcox emphasized that if approved, this would represent a 37% increase in state spending since Pritzker took office, significantly outpacing average family income growth.

Concerns were heightened when Governor Pritzker announced the discovery of over $2 billion in additional revenue without providing an official economic report to substantiate this claim. "I can only assume the new money is a reflection of recent data related to an improved economic outlook under President Donald Trump," said Wilcox.

The budget proposal also includes tax increases on businesses and revives a progressive tax plan (SJRCA 04), which could facilitate future income tax hikes if revenue projections fall short. Wilcox criticized these measures, stating, "Governor Pritzker’s refusal to rein in spending shouldn’t come at the expense of hardworking Illinoisans."

Economic challenges remain significant for Illinois under Governor Pritzker's administration, with nearly 60,000 jobs lost since he took office and a notable rise in manufacturing layoffs in 2024. Wilcox argues that increased government spending is not the solution.

Governor Pritzker's speech also included controversial remarks referring to President Trump and Republicans as “Nazis.” Additionally, property tax relief was not addressed during his address. Wilcox commented on this omission: "It is obvious that Governor Pritzker is more focused on expanding government than addressing residents’ most pressing concerns."

In response to the budget address, Wilcox released a statement highlighting his disappointment: “Today we heard a lot of vague promises but not a lot of substance when it comes to filling the billion-dollar budget hole Governor Pritzker and his Democrat allies created." He further added that the proposed budget represents an unsustainable financial burden for taxpayers.

Meanwhile, Senator Wilcox has scheduled a mobile event for April 16 in McHenry concerning REAL ID compliance ahead of the May 7 deadline. The event aims to assist residents with obtaining their updated driver's licenses required for domestic air travel after this date.

Furthermore, Illinois seniors are encouraged to apply for property tax deferral through the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program by March 1. This initiative allows eligible seniors to defer up to $7,500 annually on property taxes.

Lastly, fire departments across Illinois have until February 28 to apply for grants from the Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program managed by the Illinois State Fire Marshal's office. A total of $5 million is available through this program aimed at supporting fire station construction or rehabilitation efforts statewide.