Sangamon Sun

Governor J.B. Pritzker has proposed the largest budget in Illinois state history, with a total expenditure of $55.235 billion for fiscal year 2026. This represents an increase of nearly $2 billion from the previous year, amounting to a 3.7% overall rise in spending. The Governor's plan relies on yet-to-be-realized revenue and projections that have not been confirmed by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA), along with increased taxes requiring legislative approval.

State spending has grown significantly since Governor Pritzker took office in 2019 when expenditures were at $40.3 billion. The current budget is now $15 billion higher than it was at the start of his term.

Following the Governor’s budget address, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie criticized the spending plan as "dead on arrival." State Representative Mike Coffey expressed concerns over potential financial burdens on Illinois families, stating: "Illinois families deserve an honest and transparent government – not one that increases spending by $2 billion and masks a $3.2 billion deficit on paper, setting taxpayers up for a potential tax hike on May 31."

Coffey also highlighted his commitment to fighting for economic growth through reform rather than tax hikes: "I was disappointed by Governor Pritzker’s address to the House of Representatives... Illinois families need property tax relief, not more financial burdens."

The CGFA shared an economic forecast indicating underperformance in Illinois’ economy compared to other U.S. states in areas such as economic growth and job creation. This trend is significant as it could affect employment prospects and payroll-tax-related cash flow for FY26.

In education news, there is a push to ban cellphones in classrooms across Illinois due to their distracting nature. While some local school districts have already implemented bans or restrictions, the General Assembly may debate this issue further this spring.

Regarding transportation, the REAL ID requirements are set to take effect fully on May 7, 2025. Residents will need a REAL ID to access federal facilities and fly domestically unless another delay occurs.