Kane County Reporter

State lawmakers returned to Springfield last week for the first part of the annual fall Veto Session. During the 2025 spring session, 436 bills were approved by both chambers of the General Assembly and sent to the Governor for final action. Of these, four bills received vetoes: two total vetoes, one reduction veto, and one amendatory veto. No action was taken on these bills last week, but lawmakers are scheduled to return on October 28 for another opportunity to address them or consider new legislation.

A committee hearing in Springfield introduced a new list of possible tax and fee increases aimed at addressing the funding shortfall for public transit and improving future services. The public transit region in Illinois includes Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. Democratic lawmakers are seeking $1.5 billion in new revenue for transit support.

Proposed measures include a $1 surcharge on all tolls, a $1 delivery charge on orders over $100, a 25-cent increase in CTA fares, a 10% tax on rideshare trips in the Chicago Transit region, and a $5-$10 ticket surcharge on large events at venues with more than 10,000 seats. Other proposals include a 25% daily surcharge on tolls, a 3-cent per kWh tax on public electric vehicle charging, an expanded real estate transfer tax in collar counties, a new services tax, a payroll tax for Chicago workers, increased speed camera usage, a new tax on vehicle sales, and a higher RTA sales tax.

Senator Don DeWitte stated, "I feel strongly that the ultimate transit solution must not place the majority of the new financial burden on suburban and downstate Illinoisans, but as I review the latest proposal, it is clear that those living outside of Chicago and Cook County are being expected to take on the brunt of the costs." He added that transit legislation could appear during the second week of veto session or early in 2026.

DeWitte also thanked constituents for participating in his fall and winter coat drive, which collected over 200 coats for children and adults, along with 11 hooded sweatshirts and two men’s sport coats. The items were distributed to local organizations including Kids in Need McHenry County, the Elgin Wayside Center, Lazarous House in St. Charles, and the Salvation Army.

Illinois is facing a projected $267 million deficit in its fiscal 2026 budget, according to a report from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB). The report warns that without changes, the deficit could increase to $2.2 billion by fiscal year 2027. Senator DeWitte criticized recent spending patterns, saying, "The growing deficit is the latest example of the dangers of overspending and misplaced priorities in Springfield. I believe the state must rein in spending, focus on fiscal responsibility, and protect working families from the long-term consequences of continued budget mismanagement."

The Illinois EPA will open its next round of EV Rebate Program funding on October 28, with $14 million available through January 31, 2026. Eligible Illinois residents who purchase electric vehicles from licensed dealers can apply for rebates during this period.

October is recognized as Manufacturing Month in Illinois. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association reports that manufacturers employ more than 662,000 people in the state and contribute $580 billion annually to the economy. Illinois is ranked as the fourth-largest manufacturing state nationally and is home to over 14,000 manufacturing companies.

Earlier this month, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center held an eight-day bus tour called Makers on the Move to celebrate manufacturers statewide.

DeWitte has represented Illinois’ 33rd Senate District since 2018 after being elected as a Republican, succeeding Karen McConnaughay. More information about his background can be found at https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3227.