McHenry Times

State lawmakers reconvened in Springfield last week for the initial days of the annual fall Veto Session. During the 2025 spring session, a total of 436 bills passed both chambers of the General Assembly and were sent to the Governor. Of these, four bills received vetoes: two full vetoes, one reduction veto, and one amendatory veto. No action was taken on these measures during this session, but legislators are scheduled to return to the Capitol on October 28, which could provide another chance to address these or other legislative items.

A committee hearing in Springfield last week featured new proposals aimed at addressing the public transit fiscal shortfall in Illinois. The region affected includes Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. Democratic lawmakers leading the discussion have suggested that $1.5 billion in additional revenue is needed for transit funding.

Proposals discussed include a $1 surcharge on all tolls; a $1 delivery charge for orders over $100; a 25-cent increase in CTA fares for Chicago trains and buses; a 10% tax on rideshare trips within the Chicago Transit region; event ticket surcharges of $5-$10 at venues seating more than 10,000 people; a one-time daily 25% toll surcharge; a three-cent per kilowatt-hour tax on electric vehicle charging at public stations; an expanded real estate transfer tax for collar counties; new taxes on services such as haircuts and oil changes; a payroll tax for workers in Chicago; increased speed camera use in the RTA Region; new taxes on vehicle sales; and higher RTA sales taxes within the region.

Senator Craig Wilcox commented on these proposals: "I feel strongly that the ultimate transit solution must not place the majority of the new financial burden on suburban and downstate Illinoisans, but as I review the latest proposal, it is clear that those living outside of Chicago and Cook County are being expected to take on the brunt of the costs."

Legislation related to transit funding could be considered during the second week of veto session (October 28-30) or early next year.

In recognition of Veterans Day this November, Senator Wilcox announced he will partner with State Senator Darby Hills for a free Veterans Appreciation Luncheon & Expo. The event will take place Saturday, November 15 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Knights of Columbus Hall in Lake Zurich. Veterans and their families are invited for lunch and access to resources about veterans’ programs. Wilcox stated: "If you are a veteran or a family member of a veteran, I sincerely hope you will join us for this event."

Illinois is facing fiscal pressures with projections showing a $267 million deficit for fiscal year 2026. According to recent reports from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB), if current trends continue without significant changes, this shortfall could expand to $2.2 billion by fiscal year 2027.

Republican lawmakers have criticized Governor JB Pritzker’s approach to state spending since he took office—spending has increased by nearly 40 percent—arguing that reliance on temporary revenue sources has put Illinois’ finances at risk. Senator Wilcox said: "The growing deficit is the latest example of the dangers of overspending and misplaced priorities in Springfield. I believe the state must rein in spending, focus on fiscal responsibility, and protect working families from the long-term consequences of continued budget mismanagement."

October marks Manufacturing Month in Illinois—a campaign highlighting manufacturing’s role in Illinois’ economy. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association reports that over 662,000 people work directly in manufacturing statewide with an annual economic impact estimated at $580 billion—the largest sector in Illinois’ economy and among its fastest-growing industries.

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity notes that Illinois ranks fourth nationally for manufacturing employment with more than 14,000 companies operating across various sectors.

Earlier this month saw an eight-day bus tour called Makers on the Move organized by industry groups to showcase manufacturers throughout Illinois.

Wilcox was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 32nd Senate District in 2018 after succeeding Pamela Althoff.