McHenry Times

Lobby days at the Illinois State Capitol continue, with recent events focusing on Second Amendment rights and advocacy for older adults. Last week, gun owners from across the state gathered in Springfield for the Illinois Gun Owners Lobby Day (IGOLD). The event began at the Springfield Convention Center and included a march to the State Capitol, culminating in an outdoor rally near the Abraham Lincoln statue.

Senator Craig Wilcox commented on recent legislative efforts by Democrats targeting lawful gun owners. "Attacks by legislative Democrats on lawful gun owners continue in this state," he stated. He highlighted House Bill 4045 and Senate Bill 2652, which aim to ban certain handguns already prohibited under existing laws. Wilcox emphasized that these bills lack provisions to enhance penalties for criminals using such firearms.

In addition to IGOLD participants, a group from AARP visited Springfield to discuss priorities affecting older adults. Senator Wilcox expressed satisfaction with their dialogue: "We had a great conversation about their legislative priorities."

Governor JB Pritzker's proposed tax increases have also drawn criticism from Republicans as the legislative session nears its end. Despite ongoing budget challenges, Democrats are pushing for $6 billion in new taxes. Senator Wilcox argued against these measures: "These tax hikes will gut family budgets." He warned that middle-class families and retirees would bear the brunt of these financial burdens.

The annual Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Awards Ceremony took place on May 13, honoring firefighters who died in service. The ceremony was held at the Illinois State Capitol's Firefighter Memorial before moving to the Bank of Springfield Convention Center.

In transportation news, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced $400 million in funding for local projects aimed at improving roads and transit systems statewide. Applications are open until June 1, 2025. IDOT is hosting Special Programs Assistance Conferences to guide applicants through available funding options like the Economic Development Program and Safe Routes to School initiative.

Senator Wilcox has scheduled several community outreach events this summer, starting with an ICASH Unclaimed Property Event on June 26 in Fox Lake. Other events include discussions at local breweries and a document shredding event in Woodstock.

Finally, spots remain available for a household hazardous waste collection event co-sponsored by McHenry County on June 7 at Prairie Ridge High School in Crystal Lake. Pre-registration is required for those wishing to safely dispose of items such as oil-based paints and pesticides.