Sangamon Sun

Older adults in Illinois play a significant role in their communities, having contributed through family life, work, and volunteer efforts. State lawmakers are now focusing on policies aimed at supporting seniors’ financial security, health, and independence.

Illinois House Republicans have introduced several bills intended to address issues facing older residents. The Feed Illinois Seniors bill (HB1541) seeks to improve access to nutritious food for seniors with limited incomes. HR 112 calls for an end to state taxation of retirement income, aiming to protect retirees' savings from additional taxes.

Another measure, the Prescription Drug Affordability Act (HB1697), targets the cost of prescription medications for seniors statewide. Property tax relief is also under consideration with HB1789 and HB1746, which propose expanding exemptions and raising the senior freeze income limit from $65,000 to $80,000.

House Bill 1226 has drawn particular attention after passing both chambers of the General Assembly this spring. Supported by State Representative Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore), the legislation would raise the age for mandatory road tests for license renewal from 79 to 87 years old. It also allows immediate family members to request driver reviews if they observe cognitive or medical decline that could affect safe driving. If credible concerns are found, affected drivers may be required to complete written, vision, and behind-the-wheel tests.

“Illinois is the only state in the country that requires driving tests based solely on age, even though data has consistently shown older drivers are actually some of the safest on the road,” said Keicher. “Passing this bill is a long-overdue action to respect our seniors, reduce barriers and annual costs for them to maintain their driving privileges, and see each person as an individual instead of making assumptions about them because of their age."

“I still believe we need to do more so that road tests are determined based on more appropriate factors like driving record and ability to safely operate a vehicle, regardless of age, but this legislation is a critical step forward,” Keicher added.

Once signed into law by the Governor, House Bill 1226 will take effect July 1, 2026.

Other legislative efforts include proposals from State Representative Joe Sosnowski (R-Rockford). One bill would cap annual increases in property tax bills for seniors (HB3723), while another seeks to phase out Illinois’ estate tax by 2030 (HB2865). The latter proposal aims to help farm families pass land and assets onto future generations without being forced into sales due to inheritance taxes.

“Seniors in both urban and rural communities should be protected from being taxed out of their homes and out of Illinois,” Rep. Sosnowski said. “We want older adults to stay here and continue leading active lives full of purpose – surrounded by family, friends, and the fruits of the contributions they’ve made to their community. They deserve our respect and a state government that meets their needs.”

Keicher was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 70th House District in 2018 following Robert W. Pritchard’s tenure.