During the Thanksgiving season, Senator Don DeWitte extended warm wishes to constituents, encouraging them to appreciate their blessings. In his message, he emphasized the importance of gratitude for health, friendships, and simple joys.
Senator DeWitte recently participated in discussions about "Pay with Dignity" legislation affecting developmentally disabled individuals at Valley Sheltered Workshop in Batavia. He expressed concerns about potential job losses due to increased costs associated with meeting minimum wage requirements.
As the Illinois veto session concluded on November 21, Senator DeWitte warned of possible tax hikes and budget sweeps aimed at addressing a projected $3.2 billion budget deficit. He criticized Governor Pritzker's fiscal policies, citing a 30% increase in state spending under his administration and the approval of a $53 billion budget that includes significant tax hikes and spending on services for noncitizens.
DeWitte expressed apprehension over further budget sweeps affecting local government funds critical for essential services. He noted that his previous efforts to eliminate the grocery tax were blocked, leading to financial challenges for nearly 200 non-home rule municipalities.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts higher heating bills this winter due to rising natural gas and electricity costs. Illinois households could see monthly increases of $10 to $15 in natural gas bills. Residents are encouraged to manage costs by sealing drafts and using programmable thermostats. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is available for eligible families needing assistance with energy bills.
Thanksgiving dinner costs have risen significantly since the pandemic despite some relief in turkey prices. The average cost for a Thanksgiving meal in Illinois is reported at $62.84 for ten people. Families are advised to look for special deals and compare store-brand options for savings while being cautious of "shrinkflation."
Safety remains a priority during Thanksgiving as cooking fires peak on this holiday. The National Fire Protection Association advises staying vigilant while cooking and having emergency measures ready. With many traveling during this period, road safety tips include ensuring vehicle readiness and avoiding distractions.
In labor news, Illinois workers now have an improved method to claim unpaid wages through I-CASH, thanks to collaboration between the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office and the Department of Labor (IDOL). This initiative aims to simplify recovery of unclaimed wages by extending claim timeframes and offering additional resources.
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