Kane County Reporter

Illinois is grappling with a $3.2 billion budget deficit, prompting legislative efforts to increase transparency in spending on programs for non-citizens. Senate Bill 1699, co-sponsored by Senator Don DeWitte, mandates annual reports detailing expenditures on migrant and illegal immigrant programs. The bill aims to ensure accountability and protect taxpayers.

Governor JB Pritzker has significantly increased funding for non-citizen programs since taking office, allocating over $1 billion annually for healthcare, legal services, drivers licenses, and housing. He has also issued 30 monthly emergency declarations in the past two and a half years, using executive authority to redirect taxpayer funds without legislative oversight. Despite inquiries from Senate Republicans, detailed cost information remains undisclosed.

SB 1699 requires the Illinois Department of Human Services and other relevant state agencies to report annually to the General Assembly on state spending for non-citizens. Reports will include total amounts spent, specific appropriations, impacted families' numbers, funding sources, and awarded contracts for services such as healthcare and housing. These reports will be available online for public access.

Senator DeWitte expressed gratitude to residents of Kane and McHenry counties for participating in the "Valentines for Seniors" card drive. Community outreach events are planned throughout 2025.

In Springfield last week, Senator DeWitte met with representatives from the McHenry County Council of Government (MCCOG) during their annual lobby day to discuss legislative priorities including protecting Local Government Distributive Fund receipts.

The Illinois Department of Revenue reminds taxpayers of key tax credits available when filing 2024 returns. These include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit (VEW), Education Expense Credit, and Property Tax Credit.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Illinois challenging its sanctuary laws like the TRUST Act which they claim hinder federal immigration enforcement efforts under the Trump Administration's policies.