Carbondale Reporter

Illinois lawmakers convened the 104th General Assembly with inauguration ceremonies on January 8, following a four-day "Lame Duck" session. State Senator Terri Bryant expressed concerns that the session did not address pressing issues faced by residents. Instead, she criticized Governor Pritzker and his allies for focusing on measures prioritizing noncitizens and criminals.

One measure in question is House Bill 5164, known as the "Name Change Bill," which passed the Senate without Republican support and was approved by the House along partisan lines. Proponents argue it allows non-citizens to change their names through an expedited process after living in Illinois for at least three months. Critics, however, claim it could be exploited by illegal immigrants and criminals due to lack of proof required for eligibility.

The bill also permits judges to seal name change records, which Senator Bryant argues creates a loophole that could benefit individuals with malicious intent. Opponents believe this exacerbates challenges posed by illegal immigration under Governor JB Pritzker’s administration.

The new General Assembly marks a fresh chapter for state government, with new members joining both chambers. Over the next five months, legislators will address a $3 billion budget deficit and make decisions impacting residents statewide. They aim to invest in education, address social challenges, support small businesses, and manage government spending.

State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) plans to file legislation protecting election integrity after discovering voter registration forms were sent to noncitizens by the Pritzker Administration. Concerns arose that recipients might feel pressured to complete all forms despite language barriers potentially leading to incorrect voting applications.

Legislation signed into law by Governor Pritzker created a system where noncitizens receive identical driver’s licenses as citizens, complicating verification processes for county clerks. Legislation from 2017 allows DHS to use aid applications for voter registration but requires verification before reaching election officials.

Senator McClure's proposed legislation would require creating a database of noncitizens with Illinois driver's licenses for clerks' verification purposes.

As Illinois enters 2025, Senator Bryant calls for meaningful reforms and accountability in government plagued by fiscal mismanagement and regulatory overreach. Despite ongoing challenges like high taxes and illegal immigration issues, she emphasizes continued work towards supporting every Illinoisan's daily life.