Lake County Gazette

The 2024 Spring Session of the Illinois Senate concluded late last month, following nearly six months of legislative activity. The session saw the passage of 465 bills, culminating in a late-night vote on the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. This year's budget, at 3,389 pages and $53.1 billion, is the largest in Illinois history.

Governor Pritzker signed the state budget into effect on June 5. State Senator McConchie criticized the budget for its perceived failure to prioritize key areas such as families, schools, and support for the developmentally disabled community. He noted that since Governor Pritzker took office in 2019, state spending has increased by $13 billion or 32%. "This budget faced bipartisan opposition... instead of investing in families...the Governor is punishing taxpayers with $1 billion in new taxes," McConchie stated.

McConchie expressed concerns about future fiscal challenges, highlighting a projected $730 million shortfall for transit agencies and ongoing issues related to the migrant crisis. With federal COVID-19 funds depleted, he fears additional tax burdens may be placed on residents.

In other developments, a Springfield judge ruled against a new election law passed earlier this month by Democrat lawmakers. The law was deemed unconstitutional as it "impermissibly burdens" candidates adhering to previous regulations from participating in upcoming elections. Critics argued that Senate Bill 2412 aimed to protect incumbents and limit voter choice.

Additionally, the Senate passed House Bill 681 to reform the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (PRB). This legislation includes enhanced protections for victims and establishes new qualification standards for board members. Despite bipartisan support in the Senate, Governor Pritzker's office has publicly opposed this bill.

Senator McConchie also highlighted several bills he sponsored during the session:

- SB 275: Extends license expiration dates from four to eight years.

- SB 998: Removes FAFSA form requirements for high school graduation due to federal rollout issues.

- SB 3323: Mandates accessible EV chargers.

- SB 2751: Prohibits permit fees for home modifications needed by disabled veterans.

- SB 2740: Requires handicap parking spaces in condominium buildings.

For further details or inquiries about these legislative activities, constituents are encouraged to contact Senator McConchie's office directly.