Kane County Reporter

Illinois House Democrats have passed a $55.2 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026, marking a $2 billion increase from the previous year. This development continues the trend of rising state expenditures under Governor J.B. Pritzker, who took office in 2019 when the budget was $40.3 billion.

Governor Pritzker had previously stated in his Budget Address that any proposals to increase spending should be accompanied by suggestions for cuts. However, the newly approved budget includes $1 billion in tax hikes and fund sweeps to accommodate new spending initiatives and projects favored by Democrats.

Republicans expressed frustration over being excluded from the budget negotiation process, which they argue has been conducted behind closed doors without their input. House Minority Leader Tony McCombie criticized the focus on "politician pay raises" and "pork projects," while Deputy House Republican Leader Norine Hammond described the budget as "irresponsible."

The fiscal plan relies on one-time revenues alongside tax increases and fund sweeps to support its provisions. Critics point out that it does not offer property tax relief or cuts for working families but allocates funds towards welfare benefits for undocumented immigrants.

In another significant development, federal prosecutors are seeking a 12.5-year prison sentence and a $1.5 million fine for former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan following his conviction on corruption charges earlier this year. Madigan's sentencing is scheduled for June 13.

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie commented on Madigan's situation, stating that his fall from power is a consequence of decades of corruption, while Deputy Republican Leader Ryan Spain emphasized the need for ethics reform within Illinois government.

Additionally, implementation of a controversial 'swipe fee' law has been delayed by one year due to potential complications with sales tax transactions involving credit card use at retailers and restaurants.

Meanwhile, no legislative action was taken regarding Chicagoland's public transit crisis despite looming financial challenges faced by agencies like Metra and CTA. A Senate bill proposing over $1 billion in new funding through various taxes did not advance in the House before adjournment.

As transit agencies prepare their budgets amidst projected shortfalls, discussions about governance reforms continue among lawmakers amid concerns about increasing revenue in an already challenging fiscal environment.

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