Kane County Reporter

Governor J.B. Pritzker's recent budget proposal has sparked significant debate among Illinois lawmakers. The $55.4 billion spending plan, which is the largest in state history, has been criticized by Senate Republicans as unrealistic and burdensome for taxpayers. Senator Don DeWitte expressed concerns over the proposed 37% increase in annual state spending since Pritzker took office, arguing it far exceeds the growth of average family incomes.

Adding to the controversy, Governor Pritzker announced a discovery of more than $2 billion in additional revenue just before his budget address. This announcement came after a projected $3.2 billion deficit was reported weeks earlier by his budget office. "For months, we have been told this will be a lean budget year because we’re facing a $3.2 billion budget hole," said Senator DeWitte. "Yesterday, miraculously, Governor Pritzker announced that the actual deficit will be only $1 billion because they ‘found’ $2 billion."

The governor's plan also includes tax hikes on businesses and revives a progressive tax plan (SJRCA 04), raising concerns about potential impacts on consumers and future income tax increases if revenue projections fall short.

Economic issues remain prominent under Governor Pritzker's administration with Illinois experiencing job losses and high unemployment rates since he took office in 2019. In 2024 alone, there was a notable increase in manufacturing layoffs.

In addition to these economic concerns, Senator DeWitte noted the absence of property tax relief from the governor’s speech and suggested that Governor Pritzker might be prioritizing political ambitions over addressing residents' pressing needs.

In other news from Springfield, Senator DeWitte received the Friend of Agriculture Award from the Activator Program of the Illinois Farm Bureau for his advocacy efforts on behalf of farmers.

Additionally, Illinois residents are reminded that May 7 is the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID necessary for domestic flights and access to certain federal facilities.

Seniors are encouraged to apply for property tax deferrals through the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program by March 1st at their local County Assessor’s Office.

Lastly, fire departments across Illinois can apply for grants up to $350,000 under the new Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program until February 28th.