Sangamon Sun

A projected $737 million budget shortfall for Illinois in fiscal year 2026 has been announced by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA). This projection, presented to lawmakers on March 4, is attributed to weak private-sector job growth, which is expected to impact tax payments and cash flows. The shortfall could have exceeded $1.2 billion without certain tax increases and one-time money transfers in Governor Pritzker's proposed budget.

In response, Illinois plans to borrow $725 million through "Build Illinois" bonds backed by sales and use tax revenues. The funds will support capital projects, including a new "quantum campus" in Chicago and a $500 million initiative to manage surplus state property. Additional funds will be allocated for school construction projects.

State Representative from Illinois’ 95th District commented: “As the State Representative for Illinois’ 95th District, I will continue to fight for responsible economic growth through meaningful reform and sound policy—not tax hikes.”

In redistricting news, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie has filed a brief with the Illinois Supreme Court advocating for fair maps in the state. McCombie stated: “This is about reinstating voters’ constitutional rights that have been violated by an extreme, partisan gerrymandered map.” A lawsuit filed in January seeks to replace the current map with a fairer one.

Homeschool advocates rallied against House Bill 2827 last Thursday in Springfield. The bill proposes increased regulations on homeschool families. State Rep. Mike Coffey remarked: “I believe that parents know what’s best for their children and Republicans stand against these intrusive mandates proposed by state legislators.”

Energy demand in Illinois is expected to rise due to technological hubs like data centers increasing electricity consumption. This comes as plans continue to phase out carbon-based power plants. Environmental advocates push for more solar and wind power installations alongside high-tension battery systems despite concerns over their reliability and cost implications.

A statement from House Minority Leader emphasized the need for affordable energy rates: “Our residents and businesses need affordable energy rates, and we need to bring legislation to the House floor to ensure costs don’t skyrocket out of control.”