Carbondale Reporter

Governor J.B. Pritzker's proposed budget faces a potential $1.2 billion shortfall, according to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA). The commission's revenue forecast indicates that the governor's projections may be overly optimistic. Even with $490 million in new revenues pending approval from the Illinois General Assembly, COGFA anticipates a $740 million gap compared to estimates from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget.

State Senator Terri Bryant has voiced concerns over these figures, emphasizing the need for a more realistic fiscal plan for Illinois. "Illinois deserves a fiscal plan that addresses the state’s challenges without relying on unreliable revenue projections or additional tax burdens on its residents," she stated.

In another development, Illinois lawmakers are addressing the state's growing fentanyl crisis through new legislation. State Senators Sally Turner and Sue Rezin have introduced four bills aimed at curbing fentanyl trafficking and improving public safety measures. Coroner Kathleen Yoder joined them in announcing these proposals, highlighting the challenges posed by potent illicit fentanyl mixtures.

The legislative package includes Senate Bill 280 and Senate Bill 1569 led by Senator Turner, which propose increased penalties for fentanyl-related offenses. Senator Rezin has introduced Senate Bill 113 and Senate Bill 1283 to address pretrial release conditions for traffickers and reclassify fentanyl-related deaths as poisonings.

On another front, Illinois voters have expressed their preference to retain the current state flag following a public redesign contest that saw significant participation. Despite this clear outcome, lawmakers will still decide whether to keep or change the flag design. Senator Bryant believes that legislators should respect public opinion by maintaining the existing flag.

Additionally, Darby Hills was sworn in as State Senator for Illinois' 26th District on February 28th. Hills brings experience from her roles as Barrington Hills Village Board trustee and founder of Barrington Children's Charity. "I’m honored to represent the 26th District in the Illinois Senate," said Hills. She plans to focus on policies benefiting families while serving on several committees including Child Welfare and Commerce.

Senator Hills encourages constituents to reach out with questions or concerns as she commits herself to being an accessible representative for her district.