Rockford Sun

Republicans spotlight Illinois’ struggles as Democrats convene in Chicago

SPRINGFIELD – 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 held a Zoom press conference Aug. 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. State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) pointed out that despite these challenges, the Pritzker 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 Gov. JB 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.

Senator Syverson called for a reevaluation of state priorities, urging the Pritzker Administration to focus on the needs of Illinois residents rather than on policies that he believes are failing to address the state’s pressing issues.

New law provides flexible daycare scheduling options for working families

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

Senate Bill 3207 authorizes daycare centers to operate 24 hours a day and allows care for children for up to 12 hours if parents work in positions 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 they serve.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement and administer this new system. The bill received unanimous support in both chambers of Congress and is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

Sami’s Law signed by governor

Individuals with severe disabilities and their caregivers will soon benefit from improved accessibility across the state thanks to newly signed legislation.

Senate Bill 1089, also known as Sami’s Law requires installing at least one publicly accessible adult changing station in State Capitol buildings and all state rest stops.

This law was inspired by a need of a woman with Spinal Muscular Atrophy part of a growing movement enhancing accessibility for individuals with severe disabilities; five states have already passed similar legislation while twelve more states consider related bills. The goal is providing individuals with disabilities means participating more fully public life enjoying greater dignity comfort daily experiences

Sami’s Law passed unanimously both chambers General Assembly signed into law Aug 9

Pesticide notification legislation signed into law

A new law now requires government entities notifying residents when spraying pesticides near homes aiming help families plan taking necessary precautions keeping children indoors covering outdoor items like plants pools when pesticides applied vicinity

Senate Bill 3342 mandates government applicators or those contracted provide public notice before applying pesticides public rights-of-way within municipal borders Notice includes contact information applicators excluding farmers private individuals spraying own property businesses applicators working private property requirements

This law designed enhance government accountability protect public health signed into law Aug 9

New law protects local motorcycle dealerships from costly manufacturer mandates

Legislation aimed reducing burdens local motorcycle dealerships addressing costly manufacturer mandates signed into law

House Bill 4925 amends Motor Vehicle Franchise Act preventing vehicle manufacturers distributors wholesalers requiring motorcycle dealers making costly improvements facilities

Law designed protect smaller dealers incurring significant expenses due mandates manufacturers easing financial pressure small businesses Additionally legislation ensures aspects manufacturer-dealer relationship not contingent dealer complying potentially unreasonable demands manufacturers

New law supports competitiveness motorcycle dealers ability serve people Illinois signed into law Aug takes effect immediately