Sangamon Sun

State Senator Sally Turner has introduced new legislation aimed at increasing property tax contributions from wind and solar energy companies in Illinois. Senate Bill 2706 proposes to update the state's valuation formula for these renewable energy projects, raising the base value used to assess taxes on commercial wind and solar systems.

Currently, wind projects are valued at $360,000 per megawatt of capacity, while solar systems are assessed at $218,000 per megawatt. The new bill would increase these baselines to $588,000 for wind and $446,000 for solar beginning in tax year 2026. These figures have not changed for years, despite significant growth in the renewable energy sector.

"When the original valuation formulas were created, wind and solar were new and emerging industries, so the values were set at a lower level to help them grow," Turner said. "Since these industries are now well established, Illinois taxpayers should no longer have to subsidize these reduced rates."

Turner stated that her legislation is about fairness for other property owners: "Illinois families shouldn’t be carrying the tax load for renewable energy companies using some of the best farmland in the entire country... by making these industries pay their fair share, we can help ease the burden on local taxpayers and support the schools, roads, and services that our communities depend on."

Senate Bill 2706 has been filed and is awaiting assignment to a Senate committee.

In other state news, recent budget projections show Illinois facing a $267 million deficit in fiscal year 2026. The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget warns this gap could widen to $2.2 billion by 2027 if spending trends continue. Since taking office, Governor JB Pritzker has increased state spending by nearly 40 percent.

Republican lawmakers argue that increased spending on new programs—such as those providing funding for non-citizens—has put long-term finances under pressure. Turner commented: "The growing deficit is the latest example of the dangers of overspending and misplaced priorities in Springfield." She called for more fiscal responsibility to protect working families from future budget problems.

Lawmakers recently returned to Springfield for the fall Veto Session. Of 436 bills passed earlier this year, four were vetoed by Governor Pritzker but no action was taken during this session. Legislators are expected back on October 28 with further discussion anticipated around proposals such as a regional transit bill that would shift board control toward Chicago and introduce new delivery taxes.

Elsewhere in Illinois politics, former House Speaker Michael Madigan reported to federal prison on October 13 after being convicted on multiple counts including bribery and wire fraud tied to dealings with Commonwealth Edison. He was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison along with a $2.5 million fine.

"Despite his conviction," Turner said regarding ethics reform efforts following Madigan's sentencing, "Democrats in Springfield have shown little appetite for real ethics reform." Senate Republicans continue to advocate measures such as independent oversight and stricter revolving-door restrictions.

October marks Manufacturing Month in Illinois. According to industry organizations, manufacturing employs over 662,000 people statewide and generates an annual economic impact of $580 billion—making it Illinois’ largest sector. The state ranks fourth nationally by number of manufacturing companies.

Turner noted manufacturers’ contributions: "From small, family-run businesses to large employers, manufacturers provide good-paying jobs, strengthen local economies, and create opportunities for future generations."

Additionally, the Illinois Department of Agriculture has launched a cost-share program under its Climate Smart Agriculture Program (https://apps.agr.illinois.gov/CPRG/index.php), offering farmers $35 per acre annually over three years if they implement conservation practices like no till or strip till starting this fall. Funding is limited; pre-enrollment is encouraged before applications open on October 27.

Turner supports such initiatives: "Programs like this can provide important support for local farmers who are working to improve productivity and sustainability." She urges eligible producers to apply while funds last.

Turner was elected as a Republican State Senator representing Illinois' 44th District in 2021 after succeeding Bill Brady.