Rockford Sun

After extended debate and two years of public hearings, the Illinois General Assembly has passed Senate Bill 2111, a measure intended to address issues in Chicago’s transit system. The bill was approved during the closing hours of the fall Veto Session on October 31.

The legislation has been met with criticism regarding both its content and the timing of its passage. State Senator Dave Syverson commented, “Hundreds of millions of dollars in road projects across our communities will now be delayed because more than $500 million is being diverted to bail out Chicago’s mass transit system. It’s wrong, and I strongly opposed yet another bailout for Chicago at the expense of our local infrastructure.”

Senate Bill 2111 seeks new revenue through a combination of sources, including a surcharge on tolls, using interest from the state’s Road Fund, and increasing the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) sales tax.

Senate Republicans have voiced concerns that the measure will lead to higher sales taxes on groceries and other essential goods. They also warn that tolls will increase, raising costs for people commuting to work, school, or medical appointments. Critics argue that rather than promoting fairness or affordability, the legislation shifts resources from suburban areas to support Chicago and Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Syverson, a Republican who was elected to represent Illinois’ 35th Senate District in 1993 following Christine J. Johnson’s tenure, remains opposed to the bill.