Rockford Sun

Senate Republicans have been working tirelessly to save Illinois' Invest in Kids Scholarship program, which provides low-income children with access to better schools. State Senator Dave Syverson spoke about their efforts, stating, "We proudly continued our efforts to support the nearly 10,000 children whose lives have been forever changed by the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program." The program has received over $308 million in private donations and provided more than 38,000 scholarships to low-income K-12 students. However, with the program set to expire on January 1, 2024, it is crucial to take action to ensure that these students can continue attending their chosen schools.

In contrast to the Republicans' dedication to the Invest in Kids program, Governor JB Pritzker has been criticized for his absence during the Fall Veto Session. Senator Syverson pointed out that instead of focusing on Illinois, the Governor was in Florida, trying to increase his national profile. This has only added to the frustration of Senate Republicans who are determined to fight for the program during the next year's Spring Session.

In other news, the Illinois Senate has passed a bill that paves the way for the construction of next-generation nuclear reactors. House Bill 2473 lifts the ban on reactors less than 300 MW and allows for the development of Small Modular Reactors. This move is aimed at creating a stronger and more reliable power supply for Illinois. The bill received overwhelming support from both the Senate and the House of Representatives and will now be sent to the Governor for consideration.

On the issue of gun control, Senator Syverson voted to extend a criminal penalty enhancement aimed at keeping felons convicted of gun crimes behind bars. House Bill 1440, which passed in the Senate, is designed to help law enforcement keep violent repeat offenders and gang members off the streets. However, it seems that partisan games in the House of Representatives have stalled the bill, putting the safety of Illinoisans at risk. Senator Syverson expressed his disappointment, saying, "The statute will sunset at the end of this year, making the state less safe by allowing violent gun criminals to be back on the streets sooner."

Lastly, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield will be hosting an original edition of the Gettysburg Address. President Abraham Lincoln delivered this historic speech on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of a national military cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The document will be on display for 12 days, from November 17 to November 28. Admission to the museum will be free on November 19, the 160th anniversary of the speech. Visitors also have the option of paying $5 to see the document without touring the rest of the museum.

The efforts of Senate Republicans to save the Invest in Kids Scholarship program, pass legislation for nuclear reactors, and extend the law to hold repeat gun offenders demonstrate their commitment to improving the lives of Illinois residents. With the program's expiration date looming, it is crucial for lawmakers to take action and ensure that low-income children have access to quality education. Additionally, the passage of House Bill 2473 opens the door for a more reliable power supply in the state. However, the failure to pass House Bill 1440 puts the safety of Illinoisans at risk by potentially releasing violent gun criminals back onto the streets. Finally, the display of the original Gettysburg Address at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum provides an opportunity for visitors to connect with an important piece of American history.

Click this link to access more information: https://senatordavesyverson.com/2023/11/13/senate-week-in-review-nov-6-10-2023/