Sangamon Sun

The Illinois General Assembly has begun its regular session for 2024, with lawmakers engaging in meetings and drafting legislation. Among the key issues to be addressed during this session is the ongoing immigration crisis and its associated costs. Governor JB Pritzker has been utilizing executive action and allocating taxpayer dollars to address the crisis, bypassing the legislature. Senator Bennett has emphasized the need for transparency regarding the actual expenditure on immigration services and the impact on programs designed to assist Illinois citizens.

In addition to the immigration crisis, lawmakers are also focusing on the rules surrounding the state's "assault weapons" ban. The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) met to discuss new permanent rules proposed by the Illinois State Police (ISP) to replace the existing emergency rules. Concerns have been raised about the clarity of these rules, with critics suggesting that they may leave gun owners confused about which firearms, parts, and attachments are illegal or require registration.

Meanwhile, Republican members of JCAR have called for the reversal of proposed cuts to funding for programs that support the developmentally disabled community. These cuts would result in a reduction of 2.5 million service hours provided by Direct Support Professionals (DSP) in group homes, affecting around 10,000 adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus has signed a letter urging Governor Pritzker to rescind these cuts, highlighting the discrepancy between funding for immigrant services and support for vulnerable populations.

On a lighter note, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for instructors for the 2024 summer fishing clinics through the Urban Fishing Program. These clinics aim to teach people of all ages about fishing and provide better local fishing opportunities. Fishing instructors play a crucial role in hosting these free clinics and educating participants about fishing skills and ecology.

Moving on to financial matters, the State of Illinois currently owes over $1.3 billion to state vendors, with numerous pending vouchers. This figure represents the outstanding bills awaiting payment and does not include estimates for debts such as the unfunded pension liability, which is believed to exceed $139 billion. However, it is worth noting that the state's accounts payable at this time last year stood at around $2 billion.

In other news, Illinois experienced record-breaking recreational cannabis sales in 2023, totaling over $1.63 billion. While sales to out-of-state residents decreased, sales to Illinois residents increased by 14%. The state also saw a 7% increase in retail cannabis sales, resulting in substantial tax revenue of $417.6 million. Despite the high prices and taxes associated with cannabis in Illinois, the market continues to grow, making it the third largest market for legal cannabis in the country.

In conclusion, Senator Bennett continues to work diligently to represent the 53rd District and address important issues facing Illinois. From advocating for transparency in immigration spending to calling for support for the developmentally disabled community, Senator Bennett remains committed to serving the best interests of his constituents.