Sangamon Sun

Senator Bennett highlighted the need for transparency on noncitizen spending in Illinois, criticizing Governor JB Pritzker's policies for their lack of clarity. Bennett, in response to the situation, co-sponsored legislation aimed at shedding light on the state's spending on migrant services. The proposed Senate Bill 3170 would require detailed reporting on expenditures related to noncitizen and asylum-seeking populations, ensuring accountability for taxpayer dollars.

Bennett emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, "The people of Illinois deserve to know how much of their tax dollars are being spent on migrant services, especially when the Governor is trying to raise their taxes by $1 billion."

In another development, Senate Republicans, including Senator Bennett, opposed a gerrymandered Chicago School Board map favored by Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and special interest groups. The Republicans stood against the unfair process of gerrymandering, citing concerns raised by parents and community activists about the lack of transparency in the map-drawing process.

Senator Bennett expressed his support for maps drawn by independent commissions, stating, "I support maps drawn by independent commissions as they do in many other states, rather than politicians influenced by special interest groups."

Additionally, students from the Prairie School of DuPage played a significant role in advancing legislation to designate the Calvatia Gigantea as the official state mushroom. The students actively participated in the legislative process, conducting research, holding elections, and garnering support for the bill. The legislation received unanimous approval from the committee, showcasing the students' dedication and engagement in state matters.

As of the latest update, the State of Illinois owes a substantial amount to state vendors, totaling $1,681,284,736.48, with 18,654 pending vouchers. This figure does not include additional debts such as the unfunded pension liability, estimated to be over $139 billion.

In closing, it is noted that March is designated as Women's History Month, celebrating the achievements of women throughout history. Lottie Holman O’Neill, the first woman elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 1922, is recognized for her significant contributions to the state.