Rockford Sun

Illinois lawmakers are set to return to Springfield on January 4 for a "lame-duck session" to address the remaining business of the 103rd General Assembly. Lame-duck sessions occur after elections and before newly elected legislators take office. State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) notes that these sessions are often seen as opportunities for outgoing legislators to vote on controversial legislation without fear of political consequences.

The last lame-duck session in January 2023 resulted in the passage of a weapons ban and expanded abortion services, while the 2021 session saw the approval of the SAFE-T Act. In 2011, a significant income tax increase was passed during such a session.

The new biennial General Assembly will convene on January 8, with Senator Syverson participating in inaugural ceremonies at the State Capitol. He emphasizes that this is a time for reflection and collaboration among lawmakers to address Illinois' challenges, including a projected budget deficit exceeding $3 billion due to increased state spending and temporary federal funds.

Governor JB Pritzker's initiatives, such as free healthcare programs for noncitizens costing over $1 billion annually, have contributed to spending growth. To support these programs, he recently enacted $1 billion in tax increases. Senator Syverson urges Governor Pritzker to balance the upcoming budget without further tax hikes, encouraging residents to join his petition against new taxes.

Unemployment remains high in Illinois, with companies announcing 1,176 layoffs in November and an October unemployment rate of 5.3%, one of the highest nationally. The state ranks 37th in business tax climate according to the Tax Foundation's report. Senator Syverson advocates for fiscal responsibility and economic growth initiatives to improve job prospects and prosperity.

As of January 1, 293 new laws took effect in Illinois, covering workplace protections, insurance expansions, public safety measures, environmental initiatives, veteran support, and updated workplace requirements. The final phase of Illinois' minimum wage increase also raises wages to $15 per hour for workers aged 18 and older.

For more information on these new laws: https://senatordavesyverson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/New-Laws-Taking-Effect-January-1_2025.pdf