Kane County Reporter

Senator Don DeWitte hosted the sixth annual Fall Youth Advisory Council last week, bringing together 60 high school students from the 33rd District. The event took place at Judson University in Elgin, with participants selected by teachers and counselors from several area schools. The program aims to inform students about public service careers and encourage civic engagement.

Three community leaders addressed the students: Robb Tadelman, McHenry County Sheriff; Lori Yates, Director of Events & Engagement for Illinois Senate Republicans and former White House Press Advance staffer; and Dr. Gene Crume, Jr., President of Judson University. Students participated in question-and-answer sessions and collaborated on legislative proposals. One proposal was chosen for further development at a follow-up meeting in spring 2026, where it will go through a mock legislative process.

DeWitte commented on the importance of such initiatives: "It is a wonderful way for emerging adults to learn about the political process and how important it is to have a voice in shaping public policy for the next generation."

During the recent Veto Session in Springfield, only one vetoed bill was reconsidered. Lawmakers instead focused on new legislation, including measures affecting public transit funding for Chicago, tax changes impacting businesses, an energy rate hike, and physician-assisted suicide. DeWitte criticized these actions: "Using Veto Session to push through major policy changes in the middle of the night, with little public input or debate, is irresponsible and dangerous. These measures will have lasting and permanent consequences for families, businesses, and communities across Illinois."

As Minority Spokesperson for the Senate Transportation Committee, DeWitte played a key role in discussions on public transit reform but expressed disappointment with the final bill passed during veto session. He noted that suburban transportation users and downstate residents were not adequately represented. He shared his views in an opinion piece published in the Daily Herald and appeared on a bipartisan panel on Chicago Tonight to discuss these issues.

DeWitte also co-sponsored Senate Bill 642 to expand property tax relief for senior citizens by increasing income limits for eligibility over several years starting in 2026. The bill aims to help more seniors qualify for property tax freezes so they can remain in their homes. The measure passed unanimously in the Senate and awaits action from Governor Pritzker.

The Illinois Senate also advanced legislation legalizing physician-assisted suicide under certain conditions for terminally ill patients given six months or less to live. This measure now goes to Governor Pritzker for consideration.

Local events include Family Reading Night with Judges at Kane County Judicial Center on November 19 as part of efforts to promote family literacy among young children.

The open enrollment period for Get Covered Illinois began November 1 and runs through January 15. Residents must enroll by December 15 for coverage beginning January 1 via GetCoveredIllinois.gov after Illinois transitioned to its own state-based health insurance marketplace this year.

DeWitte has served as State Senator representing Illinois’ 33rd District since being elected in 2018 here.