South Central Reporter

In the coming days, Democrats from across the nation will gather in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, an event that has drawn on local, state, and federal taxpayer resources to host and safeguard the thousands expected to flock to Illinois’ largest city. As Democrats prepare to tout what they have “delivered” in Illinois, members of the Senate Republican Caucus, including Senator Jason Plummer, held a Zoom press conference on Friday, August 16, to scrutinize the real impact of Democratic policies on the state.

As the cost of living continues to soar, many families are struggling to afford basic necessities such as groceries, childcare, and daily essentials. Lawmakers pointed out that despite these challenges, the administration has raised taxes by $1 billion to fund $1 billion in spending on programs for non-citizens.

During the press conference, lawmakers highlighted Illinois’ reputation as one of the least tax-friendly states in the country. They expressed frustration that as families struggle to make ends meet they face higher taxes rather than relief, making Illinois an increasingly difficult place to live and work. They also noted that Illinois now has the third-highest unemployment rate in the nation, yet state leadership continues to impose job-killing taxes, further compounding financial hardships.

Public safety was another major concern raised by legislators. Since 2019, major crimes in Chicago have surged nearly 60%, with an 18% increase in the past year alone. Legislators criticized Pritzker’s “catch and release” policies which they say have led to the release of dangerous offenders putting communities at risk.

Lawmakers also expressed disappointment over the recent decision not to extend the Invest in Kids scholarship program. This program provided thousands of students from low-income families with opportunities to attend schools that better meet their educational needs. The decision to end it has left many families scrambling to find alternatives as the new school year begins.

Legislators called for a reevaluation of state priorities urging the administration to focus on the needs of Illinois residents rather than on policies they believe are failing to address pressing issues.

A new law is providing increased flexibility for working parents by expanding daycare scheduling options for shift employees.

Senate Bill 3207 sponsored by Senator Jil Tracy authorizes daycare centers to operate 24 hours a day and allows care for children for up to 12 hours if a parent works in a position requiring regularly scheduled shifts. A 10-hour break must occur between daycare visits.

This initiative was inspired by a need for a more adaptable childcare system supporting shift workers. The law is not intended for children to be in daycare for 24 hours straight but rather offers essential flexibility for caregivers and working parents.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement this new system. The bill received unanimous support in both Senate and House of Representatives and takes effect January 1, 2025.

A new law will now require government entities to notify residents when spraying pesticides near homes aiming at helping families plan necessary precautions such as keeping children indoors or covering outdoor items like plants and pools when pesticides are applied nearby.

Senate Bill 3342 sponsored by Senator Steve McClure mandates government applicators or those contracted by government provide public notice before applying pesticides on public rights-of-way within municipal borders including contact information for applicators. The law excludes farmers private individuals spraying their own property (including businesses) and applicators working on private property from these requirements.

This legislation designed enhancing government accountability protecting public health was signed into law August 9th.

Legislation aimed at reducing burdens on local motorcycle dealerships addressing costly manufacturer mandates has been signed into law.

House Bill 4925 sponsored by Senator Dale Fowler amends Motor Vehicle Franchise Act preventing vehicle manufacturers distributors or wholesalers from requiring motorcycle dealers make costly improvements facilities easing financial pressure small businesses Illinois ensuring aspects manufacturer-dealer relationship not contingent dealer complying potentially unreasonable demands manufacturers.

This new law supporting competitiveness motorcycle dealers ability serve people Illinois was signed into law August 9 taking effect immediately.