Lake County Gazette

Senate Republicans Push for Extension of Invest in Kids Act

During the recent veto session, Senate Republicans led by Senator McConchie continued their efforts to support the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program, which has had a profound impact on the lives of nearly 10,000 children. The program, which provides low-income scholarships, has received over $308 million in private donations since its inception in 2017. Senator McConchie and the Senate Republican Caucus held a press conference urging Governor Pritzker and his allies to save the program and ensure that it continues to benefit struggling students. However, their calls went unanswered as the Senate Democrats took no action during the session.

Because of this inaction, the Invest in Kids program is set to expire on January 1, 2024, potentially disrupting the education of many students. Senator McConchie expressed disappointment in the Senate Democrats' refusal to address the issue, attributing it to their allegiance to special interest groups, particularly the Chicago Teachers Union. He stated, "They are more concerned about appeasing special interest groups that fund their campaigns instead of standing up for low-income children crying out for a chance at a better future."

Despite this setback, the Senate Republicans remain committed to fighting for the program during the next year's spring session. They will continue their efforts to ensure that low-income children have access to quality education and the opportunity for a brighter future.

Lawmakers Pass Bill Paving Way for Next Generation of Nuclear Reactors

In a significant move towards a more robust and reliable power supply, state lawmakers passed legislation to end the moratorium on new nuclear reactor construction. House Bill 2473 lifts the ban on next-generation nuclear reactors, allowing for the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) beginning on January 1, 2026. This legislation not only permits the construction of new reactors but also directs the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Office of Homeland Security to establish rules for reactor decommissioning, environmental monitoring, and emergency preparedness.

Additionally, House Bill 2473 authorizes the Governor to commission a study to research the state's role in guiding the development of new nuclear technology. The bill received overwhelming support, with a 44-7 vote in the Senate and a 98-8 vote in the House of Representatives. It will now be sent to the Governor's desk for consideration.

Senate Extends Law to Hold Repeat Gun Offenders: House Refuses to Take Action

Senator McConchie supported a criminal penalty enhancement aimed at keeping felons convicted of gun crimes behind bars and off the streets. However, House Bill 1440, which sought to extend this penalty enhancement, appears to have stalled in the House of Representatives. As a result, the penalty enhancement is set to sunset at the end of this year. Senator McConchie expressed concern that allowing violent gun criminals to be back on the streets sooner will make the state less safe.

In conclusion, the recent veto session saw Senate Republicans advocating for the extension of the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program, pushing for the development of new nuclear reactors, and supporting measures to hold repeat gun offenders accountable. However, their efforts were hindered by the inaction of the Senate Democrats and the House of Representatives. Despite these setbacks, Senator McConchie and the Senate Republicans remain committed to fighting for the programs and policies that benefit the people of Illinois.

Click this link to access more information: https://senatormcconchie.com/2023/11/15/veto-verdicts-unwrapped/