Kane County Reporter

Members of the Illinois House and Senate Republican caucuses have called on Governor J.B. Pritzker to veto Senate Bill 328, which they argue benefits trial lawyers at the expense of jobs and economic growth. They also filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County court, claiming the bill violates the Illinois Constitution’s Three Readings Rule. The legislation would allow out-of-state businesses to be sued in Illinois courts for incidents unrelated to the state.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie stated, “We are answering the call of job creators, good government watchdog groups, and most importantly, our constituents, to stand up for transparency and against this job-killing legislation.” Senate Republican Leader John Curran added that the process used by Democrats to pass the bill was unconstitutional.

The Republicans' concerns echo those of national and state business groups who oppose similar legislation. State Representative Travis Weaver emphasized that there was no urgency to pass SB 328 without following constitutional procedures.

In another development, Governor Pritzker signed a $55.2 billion budget into law for Fiscal Year 2026. Deputy Republican Leader Norine Hammond criticized it as irresponsible due to new taxes and fund diversions. Deputy House Minority Leader Ryan Spain highlighted issues with transparency during its passage.

State Representative Dan Ugaste commented on the budget's reliance on one-time revenues and tax hikes without providing property tax relief. He noted that such measures could lead families to leave Illinois due to financial strain.

In criminal law news, a former teacher accused of sexual abuse could not be held pre-trial under provisions of the SAFE-T Act. A judge remarked on being constrained by the act despite the severity of the case.

Additionally, FanDuel announced an extra fee for sports wagers placed in Illinois as a response to HB 2755's tax increases enacted by Democrats.