Kane County Reporter

The corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan has been postponed until October 8, 2024. Originally scheduled to begin in April 2024, the trial has been delayed to allow the defense to modify their strategy and tactics in light of a pending decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of "James Snyder v. United States." The delay comes as Madigan faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan, who served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

In response to the news of the trial delay, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie expressed disappointment and called for ethics reform to be passed, stating, "It is disappointing to wait for justice to be served to Mike Madigan and his corrupt associates. Speaker Welch and Democratic leaders: Pass ethics reform now."

In another development related to corruption in Illinois, a federal judge has denied an acquittal or new trial for the four individuals connected with the state's largest utility, ComEd, who were convicted last year. The four individuals, McClain, Pramaggiore, Hooker, and Doherty, were found guilty of corruption and await sentencing. They have requested that their sentencing hearings be put on hold while the U.S. Supreme Court considers a case focused on the federal bribery statute.

Moving on to the state's budget, the report on December 2023 State of Illinois revenues shows that the personal income tax revenue stream remains strong, for now. However, the report also highlights that Illinois continues to fall short of states with higher employment totals, indicating a comparatively weak economy and poorer prospects for consumer spending in the state.

Despite this, Illinois personal income tax receipts have seen a growth of 15.9% in December 2023, partly matching the state's sharp increases in spending. This growth is attributed to accounting changes at the Department of Revenue, resulting in a reallocation of over $1 billion into the personal income tax line.

In the realm of child welfare, a new director has been named for the embattled Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Heidi Mueller, currently the director of Juvenile Justice, will head DCFS, replacing Marc D. Smith. The change in leadership is seen as a step in the right direction, but House Minority Leader Tony McCombie emphasizes that it will not solve the systemic problems within the department. Efforts for meaningful reform and accountability will continue.

Lastly, a new law has been enacted in Illinois to empower parents of children with special needs. Senate Bill 188 allows parents easier access to the health records of their children, closing a previous loophole that posed challenges when making critical medical decisions. The law ensures that parents can make informed decisions and provide the best care for their children.

In other news, State Representative Dan Ugaste will be hosting a Constituent Coffee event on January 12 at Arcedium Coffeehouse in St. Charles. This event provides an opportunity for constituents to express their views on issues in the state of Illinois.

Overall, these developments highlight ongoing efforts to address corruption, improve the state's budget, protect children in the child welfare system, and empower parents of children with special needs in Illinois.

To find out more, go to this link: https://repugaste.com/2024/01/10/news-from-state-representative-dan-ugaste-january-10-2024/