Lake County Gazette

Illinois House Republicans have introduced a series of legislative measures aimed at enhancing the lives of seniors across the state. Representatives Ryan Spain, Jeff Keicher, Kevin Schmidt, Tom Weber, and others have focused on key issues affecting older adults, including healthcare, housing, financial stability, and driver safety.

Rep. Ryan Spain has been a prominent advocate for seniors. He has sponsored or co-sponsored several pieces of legislation such as SB2936 to abate property taxes on renovated multi-unit residential housing and SB275 to extend driver's license renewals to every eight years for senior drivers. Spain also supports HB4072 to ease check-in requirements for caregivers and HB5027 to boost funding for mental health services.

“Our seniors have given so much to our communities, and it’s our duty to ensure they’re protected and supported,” said Rep. Spain. “We’re committed to passing legislation that makes a real difference in their lives.”

Spain also hosts "Medicare 101" events aimed at educating seniors about Medicare complexities.

Rep. Jeff Keicher has addressed issues affecting older drivers with HB4431, which challenges the Illinois mandate requiring drivers aged 75 and older to retake a driving test upon license renewal.

“Seniors deserve to live with the respect and dignity they’ve earned,” Rep. Keicher stated.

Keicher has also held events focusing on fraud protection and community engagement with seniors.

Rep. Kevin Schmidt has sponsored legislation like HB1219 allowing seniors to deduct Medicare premiums from their annual household income, facilitating tax relief qualification under the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption. He supports other bills addressing property tax relief for veterans (HB3538) and lowering food costs (HB2336).

“Supporting our seniors isn’t just about policy—it’s about recognizing their invaluable contributions,” said Rep. Schmidt.

Schmidt is active in senior living facilities within his district and holds fraud protection events regularly.

House Republicans have shown support for HR24 opposing any taxation on retirement income, reflecting their commitment to easing financial burdens on retirees.

Additional senior-focused legislation includes HB2094 by Sanalitro aimed at protecting homeowners from deceptive mortgage refinancing advertisements; HB3202 mandating coverage for medically necessary at-home saliva cancer screenings; and HB3172 by Hammond removing barriers for insulin administration in assisted living establishments.

Collectively, these efforts underscore House Republicans' dedication to safeguarding the rights, health, and financial well-being of Illinois' senior population.