Rockford Sun

Illinois Senate Republicans are pushing for increased transparency in the allocation of taxpayer funds to programs for non-citizens amid a significant budget deficit. State Senators Dave Syverson, Li Arellano, Jr., and Jil Tracy have reintroduced legislation that would mandate detailed annual reports on such spending.

Since Governor JB Pritzker assumed office, spending on non-citizen programs has risen sharply to over $1 billion annually. This increase aims to make Illinois "the most welcoming state in the nation," according to Pritzker. However, Senate Republicans argue that this expenditure lacks oversight and transparency.

The proposed Senate Bill 1699 would require the Illinois Department of Human Services to provide an annual report detailing spending on non-citizen programs. The report would cover total expenditures, appropriations, impacted families, funding sources, and awarded contracts for services like healthcare and housing. The information would be accessible online for public scrutiny.

As the state's budget process is about to begin with Governor Pritzker’s upcoming address, Senator Syverson emphasizes the need for clarity on non-citizen program spending and its effects on essential services for Illinois taxpayers.

In related developments, Senator Syverson and other Republican legislators are urging Governor Pritzker to repeal the Trust Act following a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice against Chicago, Illinois, and Cook County over sanctuary policies. The DOJ alleges these laws hinder federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Senator Syverson criticizes Governor Pritzker's policies as jeopardizing public safety by prioritizing political agendas over law enforcement cooperation with ICE. He calls for legislative support empowering local law enforcement agencies in federal immigration matters.

Meanwhile, the Illinois Department of Revenue reminds residents to claim available tax credits when filing their 2024 income tax returns. Senator Syverson encourages taxpayers to utilize these credits to alleviate financial burdens amid economic challenges.

Key tax credits include:

- **Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):** For low-to-moderate-income workers meeting specific criteria.

- **Illinois Child Tax Credit (CTC):** A new credit worth 20% of EITC for eligible parents with children under 12.

- **Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit (VEW):** For certified volunteer emergency workers.

- **Education Expense Credit:** Offers a credit on qualifying educational expenses above $250.

- **Illinois Property Tax Credit:** A 5% credit on property taxes paid on primary residences.

For more information about these credits or assistance with filing returns, individuals can contact the Illinois Department of Revenue at 1-800-732-8866.