Carbondale Reporter

With energy costs on the rise, Senate Republicans in Illinois have proposed a legislative package to address increasing electricity bills. According to utility filings, Ameren and ComEd customers are facing significant hikes in their monthly bills due to recent energy grid capacity auctions. The Republican plan includes three Senate Bills aimed at enhancing energy reliability and affordability.

State Senator Terri Bryant emphasized the need for reform, stating that "continued inaction by Democratic lawmakers" is unacceptable. The proposal involves creating a task force to assess state policies' impact on energy prices, repealing the forced closure date for coal and natural gas plants, and expediting permits for new power plants.

In another development, Illinois Senate Republicans have urged Governor JB Pritzker to maintain funding for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). They sent a letter requesting the restoration of a $32 million cut to Direct Support Professional service hours. The letter highlighted concerns about staffing shortages and potential risks of institutionalization for individuals with disabilities.

Amidst budgetary challenges, Illinois Democrats are exploring over $6 billion in potential tax hikes as they face a significant deficit. Proposals include taxes on digital advertising and capital gains. Senate Republicans have criticized these measures, advocating instead for fiscal responsibility.

Meanwhile, the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus unveiled the 2025 Memorial Day Wall of Remembrance at the State Capitol. This tribute honors fallen service members from Illinois and will be open to public viewing until June 6.

Legislation supporting young farmers has passed the General Assembly. Senate Bill 2372 establishes the Farmland Transition Commission within the Department of Agriculture to address challenges faced by aspiring farmers aged 25 to 40.

House Bill 1226 aims to eliminate discriminatory driving test requirements for older drivers in Illinois. The bill proposes changes to current rules requiring frequent behind-the-wheel tests for seniors aged 79-87.

Additionally, Senate Republicans passed the TICK Act led by Senator Darby Hills to tackle alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), an allergy caused by tick bites. House Bill 1754 mandates tracking AGS cases and raising public awareness through healthcare provider training.