Carbondale Reporter

Democrats in the Illinois General Assembly have passed a series of bills during the fall Veto Session that have drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers, including State Senator Terri Bryant.

One of the measures, referred to as the “Energy Omnibus Bill,” removes caps on energy rate increases. Critics say this could result in an $8 billion rise in power bills for Illinois residents. The legislation also allows large battery storage facilities to be built within 150 feet of homes or farms without input from local governments.

State Senator Terri Bryant commented on the bill’s impact: "Families across Illinois are already being crushed by rising costs, and instead of offering real relief, this proposal makes things worse." She added, "By removing these protections and giving unelected agencies unlimited power to raise rates, the legislation will make energy more expensive and less reliable for Illinois families."

Another measure advanced by Democrats is Senate Bill 1911, which would “decouple” Illinois from federal tax relief efforts aimed at supporting businesses. This move has been described by opponents as a tax increase on businesses and manufacturers. Republican lawmakers argue it could harm job creation and investment at a time when Illinois faces high unemployment rates compared to other states.

Senator Bryant criticized this approach: "Governor Pritzker and his allies are prioritizing short-term revenue over long-term economic stability." She continued, "Instead of creating jobs and helping families get ahead, Democrats are choosing yet another tax hike that raises costs, drives away opportunity, and makes it even harder for Illinois families to succeed."

Senate Bill 1911 now awaits the governor’s signature.

Additionally, Senate Bill 2111—a public transit bill intended to address issues with Chicago’s transit system—was passed after extended debate. The legislation redirects some state motor fuel sales tax revenue toward Chicago transit funding. Opponents argue this diverts critical resources from downstate infrastructure projects.

Senator Bryant opposed Senate Bill 2111: "This plan raises costs for families who can least afford it and takes more from our communities to cover for Chicago’s spending problems."

Bryant was elected as a Republican to represent Illinois’ 58th Senate District in 2021, succeeding Paul Schimpf.

Senate Bill 2111 also heads to Governor Pritzker for consideration.