Sangamon Sun

Governor J.B. Pritzker recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to testify on Illinois' sanctuary state policies, which have been costly for the state's citizens. The governor argues that he is adhering to existing laws; however, his policies have significantly limited cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, even in cases involving violent criminals and gang members.

In 2021, Governor Pritzker signed legislation that required counties to cancel ICE detention contracts, affecting the state's ability to detain and deport dangerous individuals. Additionally, he empowered the Attorney General to penalize police departments assisting federal immigration officials.

Furthermore, Pritzker established the taxpayer-funded Welcoming Illinois office to expand benefits for undocumented immigrants. This initiative includes free healthcare and has resulted in significant expenses during a time of inflation and rising taxes.

In other news, former House Speaker Michael Madigan was sentenced this week to seven and a half years in prison and fined $2.5 million for corruption. Madigan was charged with racketeering, bribery, wire fraud, and extortion after a lengthy investigation revealed he traded official favors for personal gain through deals with utility giant ComEd.

Despite Madigan's conviction on all major counts, no ethics reforms targeting the General Assembly have passed since his indictment. Senate Republicans have proposed measures for independent oversight and tighter revolving-door laws; however, Democratic leaders have blocked these actions.

Illinois Democrats have also approved a new per-wager tax on online sports bets. Starting July 1st, sportsbooks will pay $0.25 on each of the first 20 million bets annually and $0.50 thereafter. FanDuel announced it would charge a $0.50 fee on every wager starting September 1st.

Meanwhile, more than $1 million in technology grants will be awarded by the Illinois Secretary of State's office to 88 public libraries across the state. These funds aim to improve technology access in underserved communities by upgrading hardware and software among other enhancements.

Eligible libraries will receive either $27,500 or $12,500 based on their population served if they operate in areas with low tax bases relative to their service populations. Projects may begin as early as June 28th with grant funds needing expenditure within two years.

Additionally, an unclaimed property event is being organized by State Senator Sally Turner alongside the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office at Forsyth Public Library on June 25th from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., where attendees can check if they are owed money or need help filing claims.