Illinois State Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Lake Barrington)
State Government: Agencies/Departments/Divisions | Elected State Legislators
Recent News About Illinois State Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Lake Barrington)
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2024 Cicadas Emergence: What to Expect and When
Periodical cicadas are set to make a rare appearance this year, with two broods emerging simultaneously after more than two centuries. According to a report by NBC Chicago, these cicadas are expected to rise from the ground as early as this month.The upcoming emergence of the cicadas has prompted curiosity and anticipation among the public. As one entomologist at the Morton Arboretum, Lydia Scott, stated, "It's a pretty rare event to have two different broods emerge in the same year." This convergence of broods will provide a unique opportunity to witness a natural...
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Illinois Struggles with Economic Challenges, Calls for Tax Relief to Boost Growth
Illinois continues to face economic challenges, with a recent report highlighting the state as having one of the worst economies. The report underscores the need for urgent measures to improve the economic landscape in Illinois.A key recommendation put forth is the reduction of tax burdens on families and businesses within the state. An unidentified source emphasized this point, stating, "We need to reduce tax burdens on families and businesses to compete with our fellow states and make Illinois a destination for growth."The call for tax relief aims to enhance...
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Rep. McLaughlin Speaks on House Bill 5345 – Removing the Tip Incentive Pay Structure
House Bill 5345 – a Bill to Remove the Tip Incentive Pay Structure was passed by Illinois House Democrats this week. Rep. McLaughlin took to the floor to discuss the harmful ramifications this bill will cause.During a dinner in Springfield this week, Rep. McLaughlin and some of his fellow Representatives encountered servers who were vehemently against the bill. Rep. McLaughlin expressed the sentiment of the serving personnel, businesses, and patrons affected by the bill by stating, "Serving Personnel do not want this. The Businesses do not want this and the Patrons whose...
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Chicago Museums Offer Free Admission to Illinois Residents in April
Chicago residents have a special treat this month as museums across the city are offering free admission days to Illinois residents. The initiative allows locals to explore a variety of cultural and educational institutions without the burden of an entrance fee.Among the museums participating in this offer are the Field Museum, Swedish American Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago History Museum, and Shedd Aquarium....
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Illinois State Police Celebrates 102 Years of Integrity, Service, and Pride
The Illinois State Police is being honored for 102 years of "Integrity, Service, Pride." The dedicated state troopers are recognized for their daily efforts in keeping Illinois communities safe and ensuring the well-being of residents and travelers. In a message from the Illinois State Police, they express gratitude and recognition for the commitment shown by their members."April 1st is ILLINOIS STATE TROOPER DAY. We honor the dedicated Men and Women of the ISP who are unwavering in their commitment to uphold the standards of Integrity, Service, and Pride; and serve our...
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McLaughlin Questions Deputy Gov. Manar on State Funding for LGDF and Education
Representative Martin McLaughlin and Deputy Governor Andy Manar engaged in a discussion regarding State Contributions to LGDF and School Funding during the General Services Appropriations Committee Hearing held on March 20, 2024.During the hearing, Representative Martin McLaughlin raised questions about the allocation of state funds to the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) and education. In response to his inquiries, Deputy Governor Andy Manar provided insights and information on the state's financial commitments.Representative McLaughlin expressed his concerns,...
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Illinois National Guard Commander Major General Rich Neely Set to Retire After 40 Years of Service
Major General Rich Neely, the Commander of the Illinois National Guard, will officially retire after 40 years of service this May. Governor JB Pritzker announced Neely's retirement, thanking him for his dedication and service to the nation and the state of Illinois. In a statement, Governor Pritzker expressed his gratitude, saying, "Major General Rich Neely has been an exceptional leader for the Illinois National Guard, and his dedication to our state and country is truly commendable."Neely's retirement marks the end of a distinguished military career that has spanned...
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Primary Election Day in Illinois
Today, Illinois residents are heading to the polls for Primary Election Day. The Caucus Blog reminds us that "March 19 is Primary Election Day in Illinois."Voters in the state will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of important races. According to The Caucus Blog, voters will not only be able to have a say in the selection of presidential nominees and their delegates but also cast their votes for party nominees for the U.S. House, Illinois House, certain Illinois Senate seats, as well as various elections for Illinois’ judiciary, and local government...
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Rep. McLaughlin Breaks Down Illinois’ Real Credit Score
Illinois State Representative McLaughlin recently shed light on the state's financial situation during a discussion on the real credit score of Illinois. Along with House Republicans, McLaughlin addressed the challenges arising from the state's stagnant economy and high taxes.The event aimed to analyze and discuss the factors contributing to Illinois' economic struggles and its impact on residents. McLaughlin emphasized the importance of understanding the state's credit score as a crucial indicator of its financial health.In his remarks, McLaughlin stated, "Illinois’...
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McLaughlin Meets with Law Enforcement in Springfield
Springfield, Mar 6 2024 - In a recent meeting, Senator McLaughlin expressed his unwavering support for the law enforcement community. During the gathering, the Senator emphasized, "I am always honored to support our law enforcement community. They are dedicated, law-abiding people who leave their own families at home, while they go to work to protect ours – every day and night."The meeting served as a platform for discussions on various issues affecting law enforcement in Springfield, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by those dedicated to upholding the law...
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McLaughlin Hosts Press Conference with Local Mayors
State Representative Martin McLaughlin, alongside a group of suburban leaders, spoke out against Governor J.B. Pritzker's proposal to eliminate the state's 1% grocery tax. The leaders expressed concerns that such a move would strip their communities of essential funding for public safety, roads, and various services. McLaughlin, a Republican and former village president of Barrington Hills, emphasized the significance of the grocery tax revenue for local programs, stating, "The grocery tax receipts never actually get to the governor’s desk, or to Springfield. They remain in...
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Illinois Corruption Erodes Public Trust
Illinois Corruption Erodes Public TrustThe trust of the public in its leaders is crucial for the smooth functioning of a democracy. As stated by an unnamed source, "Democracy depends on the public’s trust of its leaders. When that trust is shattered it could take years, if ever, to put the pieces back together."In a recent episode of Capitol Crimes, various corruption scandals in Illinois were highlighted, showcasing the erosion of trust in the state's government. The program also shed light on the efforts being made by some Illinois lawmakers to restore faith in the...
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Rep. McLaughlin, Local Mayors Host Press Conference on Grocery Tax Proposal
State Representative Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) is set to host a press conference at the Barrington Hills Village Hall on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 2 pm. Rep. McLaughlin will be joined by local mayors from Libertyville, Algonquin, and Cary to discuss the local fiscal impact of the Governor’s proposed elimination of the grocery tax.During the press conference, Rep. McLaughlin will emphasize the importance of local control and address the potential implications of the Governor's proposal on the communities. In a statement regarding the event, Rep. McLaughlin...
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Our National Anthem at Sporting Events Started Here in Illinois
The Caucus Blog reported that the tradition of playing the National Anthem before sporting events originated during the World War I era and specifically started in Illinois. This historical connection between the National Anthem and sporting events dates back to significant events in American history.
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Illinois House Bill 1634 Hearing on California Emission Standards
Illinois lawmakers are currently deliberating a new bill that has sparked controversy among political circles. The proposed legislation, House Bill 1634, has drawn attention for its implications on state sovereignty and environmental regulations. According to a statement, "A new bill proposed by Democrats would force the Illinois EPA to adopt California emission standards for trucks and surrender state sovereignty to California bureaucrats instead of Illinois lawmakers."The House Energy & Environment committee has scheduled a hearing on this contentious bill today at 4:00...
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Illinois Launches Made in Illinois Grant Program to Support Local Manufacturers
Illinois has recently announced the launch of the Made in Illinois Grant program, aimed at supporting local manufacturers. According to an anonymous source, "Applications for the Made in Illinois Grant program are open now until March 31 for eligible Illinois manufacturers."The program, which has allocated $1 million in funds, is designed to provide financial assistance to manufacturers in Illinois. Eligible manufacturers are encouraged to apply before the deadline to take advantage of this opportunity.For more information and to access the application, interested...
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This Week in Springfield!
Local leaders from the McHenry County Council of Governments (McCOG) met with State Representatives in Springfield to discuss various topics. Among the attendees were Algonquin Mayor Debby Sosine, Cary Mayor Mark Kownick, Mayor Richard Mack of Ringwood, and Chalen Daigle from McCOG. The meeting also included Minority Leader McCombie and Representatives Tom Weber, Jeff Keicher, Steve Reich, and Joe Sosnowski.The discussions focused on restoring the Local Government Distributive Fund allocation to 10% and addressing regional priorities. The presence of these local leaders...
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McLaughlin on lack of statement on Israel: ‘It’s completely shocking to witness many Democrats openly falling in line with the Progressive pablum’
State Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) is questioning the state's Democrats for their lack of enthusiasm in supporting the Israeli effort in the wake of Oct. 7’s terrorist attack.
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McLaughlin Calls out Democrats’ Silence on the House Floor
State Representative Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) expressed his disappointment in the silence of the majority party on the House floor during the Veto Session in Springfield. In his statement, Rep. McLaughlin called out the Democrats for their failure to condemn the Hamas terrorist organization for their violent and murderous acts against innocent Israelis and Americans.During the session, Rep. McLaughlin observed the absence of any statement from the majority party addressing the heinous actions of Hamas. He expressed his astonishment at the number of...
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Illinois House Reconvenes in Springfield for Veto Session
The Illinois House of Representatives has reconvened in Springfield today to begin their fall veto session. This session, which is expected to last for the next few weeks, will address a number of important issues for the state of Illinois.According to a report from WBEZ, there are several key topics that may come up for discussion and action during this session. One of the main issues that will be on the table is the budget. Illinois faces a significant budget deficit, and lawmakers will need to work together to find solutions to address this financial challenge.In...