Sangamon Sun

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie criticized the House Democrats for their priorities during a legislative session, stating, “Republicans showed up with good bills for consideration. Bans on kangaroos and exotic cats made the cut while Republican bills to reduce taxes, hold criminals accountable, and strengthen families were blocked by Democrats."

State Representative Mike Coffey expressed concerns about the energy direction in Illinois, emphasizing the need for more time and long-term goals to meet energy objectives: “We certainly cannot keep shutting down coal plants and replace them with solar and wind farms that generate a fraction of power needed to meet our demands.”

Representative Dan Ugaste lamented the lack of consideration for some bills, highlighting the challenges faced by Republican bills: “Every chairman has a different criteria they might use... A lot of my bills are not getting called, and many Republican bills aren’t getting called. The vast majority are not.”

The Commission on Budget Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) reported that the entirety of March 2024 revenue growth in Illinois came from federal funds and income taxes paid by residents, indicating a decline in other revenue sources.

Rep. Nicole La Ha's HB 5467, aimed at extending the prosecution window for crimes against minors, received bipartisan support and passed committee, representing a significant step in combating human trafficking in Illinois.

Regarding proposed legislation to change wages for tipped workers, State Representative Mike Coffey voiced opposition, stating, “This legislation would cause turmoil in the service industry, causing job creators to cut good-paying positions and putting these businesses at risk of closure.”

Coffey further emphasized the concerns of employees and businesses, urging support to encourage business growth and avoid imposing additional burdens.