Lake County Gazette

State Rep. Tom Weber (R-Lake Villa) says he hopes his personal sacrifice will set a standard in Springfield.

“I’m hoping that not taking a state pension will serve as an example for every lawmaker in Springfield,” Weber told the Lake County Gazette. “It’s not that I don’t believe people should have benefits; instead, it's more to show many of the promises made by legislators are just unrealistic. Illinois can’t afford any of that right now, given the circumstances. If a private company made some of the same promises Springfield has, they would be out of business by now.”

With the state all but crippled by a still rising debt load and a pension crisis that shows no signs of slowing, Weber said, his stance represents his commitment to service and desire to stand for what he thinks is in the best interest of his constituents.

Tom Weber

“I’m also in favor of terms limits and don’t believe any leader should be in power anywhere near as long as House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) has,” he said. “For the good of the people, I don’t think any politician should come into this with the goal of being in office long enough to receive a pension.”

With Illinois Review pegging the average legislative pension at roughly $60,000 2017, Weber said, the state can no longer routinely take on such financial burden.

“When I’m no longer in office, I don’t think taxpayers should be forced to still be responsible for my financial well-being,” he said.  

Weber easily bested his Democratic rival, Trisha Zubert, in the 64th District in November with nearly 60 percent of the vote.

The 64th House District includes parts of Lake and McHenry counties along with Crystal Lake in the south and the Chain O’Lakes up to the Wisconsin border.