Sangamon Sun

Senator Bennett strongly opposes Senate Bill 771, a piece of legislation that would grant the state sweeping authority over private land in Illinois. The bill has faced opposition from various groups, including farmers, business organizations, home builders, and energy producers. Senator Bennett believes that the proposed legislation infringes on property rights and would impose burdensome regulatory processes on citizens, potentially harming Illinois’ agriculture, construction, and energy sectors in the long term.

In contrast, Senator Bennett recently passed Senate Bill 2959, which creates a unique license plate logo to provide recognition for members of the Sons of the American Legion. The legislation aims to raise awareness of the organization and support veterans by raising funds through the sale of the plate. Senator Bennett emphasized the importance of the new license plate logo, stating, "By having their own logo on a license plate, Sons of the American Legion can further preserve the legacy of their parent organization and the sacrifices made by Veterans."

Additionally, Senator Bennett hosted a Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program in Springfield, welcoming high school students from the 53rd Senate District to the Illinois State Capitol. The program allows students to learn more about the state's legislative process and engage with local leaders. During the recent meeting, students had the opportunity to experience the legislative process firsthand, including visiting the Senate and House floor, meeting with state leaders, and participating in a mock committee hearing on a bill they had worked on previously.

Senator Bennett expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to inspire and guide the next generation, stating, "I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to spark inspiration and offer guidance to the next generation!" The students also had the unique opportunity to witness a solar eclipse outside the Capitol during their visit.

The State of Illinois currently owes over $1 billion to state vendors, including pending vouchers. This figure does not include estimated debts such as the unfunded pension liability, which has been projected to be over $139 billion.

On a lighter note, thanks to the civic engagement of Mrs. Hemmer's fifth-grade class at the Prairie School of DuPage, the giant puffball mushroom is on its way to becoming Illinois’s newest state symbol. Senate Bill 3514, filed by Senator Seth Lewis, designates the Calvatia gigantea as the official state mushroom, a proposal that originated from a class discussion on state symbols and culminated in the students working with Senator Lewis to introduce the legislation.