Kane County Reporter

Last week, Governor J.B. Pritzker announced his intention to seek a third term in office. Illinois does not impose term limits on governors, making Pritzker the first to pursue a third term since the 1980s. Pritzker, first elected in 2018 and serving as governor since 2019, has overseen an increase in state spending by nearly $15 billion, representing about a 40% rise over six and a half years. Under his administration, Illinois is noted for having one of the highest tax burdens nationally and one of the highest unemployment rates in the Midwest. He has also directed billions of dollars towards funding for illegal immigrants.

In other news from the district, Senator Don DeWitte expressed gratitude to those who participated in a document shredding event and food drive co-hosted with State Rep. Dan Ugaste. The event successfully filled a shredding truck and collected non-perishable food items for local families.

Senator DeWitte’s events calendar includes several outreach activities:

- July 15: Traveling Office Hours at Lake in the Hills Village Hall.

- July 9: Traveling Office Hours at Gail Borden Public Library District (South Elgin Branch).

- August 6: Traveling Office Hours at Algonquin Public Library.

- August 19: ICASH Unclaimed Property Event at Gail Borden Public Library District (South Elgin Branch).

- September 4: Senior Fair in Carpentersville.

- September 16 or TBA: Senior Fair in St. Charles.

- October 14: Senior Fair in Crystal Lake.

Additional events are regularly updated on Senator DeWitte's website.

As Independence Day approaches, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the State Fire Marshal’s office are urging residents to follow fireworks safety guidelines and state regulations. Only licensed professionals may handle display fireworks under the Illinois Explosives Act. The IDNR manages licensing and storage certification for explosives, while the State Fire Marshal regulates consumer fireworks allowed by local ordinance.

Officials highlighted that during the most recent reporting period there were "156 injuries and one death" related to fireworks use. Mortars, roman candles, bottle rockets, and sparklers were identified as leading causes of these injuries.

Residents are advised to attend licensed public displays rather than attempting personal use of fireworks. For emergencies or violations reports, contact IDNR at 217-782-9976 or OSFM at 217-785-0969.