Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Dave Severin has criticized recent legislative actions by Illinois Democrats during the 2025 Veto Session, claiming that new measures will increase costs for taxpayers and energy customers. Severin described the session as "one of the most expensive and destructive legislative gatherings ever."

“From a massive RTA and CTA bailout that raids the downstate road fund. to legislation that guarantees higher electricity bills for residents and businesses, to the expansion of failed and dangerous Sanctuary State policies, Illinois Democrats and Governor Pritzker put their foot on the gas, driving Illinois government further toward the radical left,” Severin said. “I voted against the abusive policies that target taxpayers, energy customers, and law enforcement officials. Unfortunately, a lot of bad public policy made it to the Governor’s desk last week.”

Several major bills advanced to Governor J.B. Pritzker's desk in the final week of session:

SB 25 addresses electric battery storage. Severin referred to it as a “Green New Giveaway” and argued it would guarantee profits for battery storage companies while increasing electricity rates for both residential and business customers. He expressed skepticism about claims that this measure would ultimately save money or improve grid reliability, stating: "The truth is, nothing will ever be able to replace the reliability and the affordability of the energy provided by coal-fired power plants that have been taken offline by radical environmental policies passed in recent years. I voted NO."

SB 2111 provides financial support for Chicago-area transit agencies. Severin opposed what he called a bailout for the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), saying it redirects funds from downstate roads while raising taxes and tolls. According to him, changes in funding formulas now send 85% of state sales tax collected on gasoline to Chicago-area mass transit, leaving only 15% for downstate transit projects.

On SB 1950 concerning physician-assisted suicide, Severin reiterated his opposition: “I believe in the sanctity of life. I believe in the power of prayer in healing. I do not think allowing physician-assisted suicide is the right direction for healthcare in our state.”

HB 1312 expands sanctuary state policies by establishing a civil cause of action against those who violate others’ constitutional rights—an approach Severin says targets ICE agents and law enforcement officers involved with deportations. He stated: “I believe this is an unconstitutional bill that will hurt morale in our law enforcement community, hurt recruitment, and cause people to retire or choose other professions. I voted NO.”

Severin was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 116th House District in 2023 after replacing David Friess.

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