Sangamon Sun

State Representative Jeff Keicher recently provided an update on legislative developments, budget concerns, and tax proposals in Illinois. Keicher highlighted the May 9 deadline for advancing Senate-passed bills through House committees, noting that any not advanced are likely stalled unless deadlines are extended for Democratic bills.

Keicher criticized Democratic leaders for excluding Republicans from drafting the state's annual budget amidst a challenging fiscal situation. He pointed out the growth of the state budget from $39 billion in 2019 to over $54 billion under Governor Pritzker, calling it unsustainable. The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) predicted a revenue drop exceeding $500 million, while spending surpassed initial budgets by $1.6 billion.

"A series of major tax hike proposals are being pushed by multiple groups as solutions to Illinois’ growing fiscal problems brought on by years of overspending by Illinois Democrats," said Keicher. The Illinois Revenue Alliance proposed over $6 billion in new taxes targeting small businesses and digital content among others. Additionally, a new statewide 6.25% sales tax on services was proposed to support Chicago's mass transit system.

Keicher stated his opposition to these potential tax hikes: "Illinois needs to start budgeting responsibly." He also discussed visiting the TD Ryan Unleashed Podcast and attending a cherry blossom celebration at Jackson Park with his wife.

On Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Keicher advocated for reform due to perceived abuses: "We need TIF reform!" He supports responsible development but criticizes misuse leading to underfunded schools.

Keicher has been vocal about how excessive taxation and regulation have impacted Illinois' economy compared to national averages. "The data is clear: our state is missing out on $261 billion in economic activity," he noted.

Several legislative updates were provided:

- Senate Bill 71 aims at improving emergency plans for schools.

- House Bill 2521 enhances protections for student-athletes.

- Senate Bill 191 focuses on equipping school buses with seat belts.

- Senate Bill 407 addresses absenteeism in schools.

- Senate Bill 1605 expands vocational education opportunities.

Other notable legislation includes House Resolution 304 declaring May as ALS Awareness Month, House Bill 2990 closing a videogaming tax loophole, House Bill 1226 addressing senior driving tests, and House Bill 2774 establishing a domestic violence hotline system.

Keicher encouraged constituents to reach out with questions or feedback and mentioned upcoming events over the summer.