Carbondale Reporter

The Illinois General Assembly has passed Governor JB Pritzker's budget, which includes nearly a billion dollars in new taxes and sets a record for government spending at over $53 billion. This represents an increase of almost $13 billion, or 32%, since Pritzker took office. The surge in spending was driven by temporary emergency COVID funds and higher-than-expected state revenue. Critics argue that the budget creates new programs and increases permanent spending, including around a billion dollars annually on programs for non-citizens, such as top-tier healthcare. Senate Republicans have expressed concerns about using temporary funds for permanent expenses.

State Senator Terri Bryant criticized the Governor, stating he should prioritize the people of Illinois rather than funding his political agenda.

In other legislative news, the Senate passed House Bill 681 to reform the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (PRB) following controversy and a recent tragedy involving an offender released by the board. The bill introduces reforms aimed at enhancing victim protections, improving transparency, setting new qualification standards for board members, and creating a task force to examine PRB-related issues. Senator Bryant highlighted the need for these reforms to improve public safety and ensure victims' voices are heard.

On May 22, a Springfield Circuit judge issued a temporary injunction blocking Senate Bill 2412, a controversial election law signed by Governor Pritzker earlier this month. Critics claim the law is intended to protect vulnerable incumbents and limit voter choice. The injunction followed a lawsuit alleging violations of constitutional voting rights. Republican lawmakers had opposed the legislation, calling it a power grab by Democrats that would undermine public trust in elections. Senator Bryant expressed hope that the ruling would help ensure fair representation for Illinois citizens.

Additionally, the Senate Republican Caucus unveiled its annual Memorial Day Wall of Remembrance at the Illinois State Capitol Rotunda. The display honors men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military with photos and stories. Visitors can share their own memories or express gratitude through notes posted on the wall from May 23 to June 7 during regular Capitol business hours.