News

As a New Year approaches, Illinois residents may want to know about several notable laws that take effect on Jan. 1.

A recent report ranks Illinois low in fiscal transparency, and as a new decade looms, lawmakers must commit to improving the state’s system of drawing legislative boundaries to limit undue influence from politicians and special interests.

November is a month of celebrating all that is good about our nation’s freedom and its democracy.

Illinois continues to move toward a brand-new industry launching statewide, as state government continues to prepare for the sale of recreational cannabis beginning January 1.

The fall Veto Session came to a close during the week with the final days’ main focus firmly on combatting the ethics problems currently plaguing the state.

Continuing redevelopment efforts in downtown Quincy is the goal of legislation sponsored by Senator Jil Tracy and approved November 13 by the Illinois Senate.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is posting information about jobs in Adams County and Knox County.

A full agenda awaits legislators when they return to the Capitol Nov. 12 for the final week of the fall Veto Session.

The Senate Republican Caucus took action during the week to restore public trust in an honest and ethical state government by introducing legislation to ensure independent investigations of members of the General Assembly.

The Senate Republican Caucus took action today to restore public trust in an honest and ethical state government.

Happy Halloween!

A multi-year, multi-billion-dollar plan for road and bridge construction in Illinois was launched during the week, while the battle against opioid deaths continues, and the state improves educational opportunities for both students and teachers.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has allocated more than $68.1 million for construction projects in the 47th Senate District during Fiscal Year 2020, according to Senator Jil Tracy.

During the upcoming fall veto session, during which they generally take action on bills vetoed by the Governor, Illinois lawmakers could also be asked to consider a proposal to consolidate suburban and downstate pension plans, and new bills being filed by lawmakers.

As part of Fire Prevention Week, October 6-12, the Illinois State Fire Marshal is offering safety tips to keep your family safe.

As Veterans Day approaches, Senator Jil Tracy is asking constituents to submit a photo and tribute to a loved one who has served in the United States Armed Forces to be displayed on the Veterans Day “Wall of Honor” in the Illinois State Capitol, November 4-15.

Personal finance publication Kiplinger has ranked all U.S. states to determine which is the most, and the least, tax-friendly, based on the tax burden placed on residents.

Never Forgotten. United We Stand!

An estimated $69 million in federal aid is being sought for flood damages across the state, and I joined with central Illinois leaders and state officials Sept. 4 at IEMA training conference to discuss how best to plan for major flooding events.

Outdoor sporting enthusiasts will have the opportunity to learn about new laws and important dates at the Sportsmen’s Legislative Update hosted by Senator Jil Tracy September 4 in Beardstown.

Happy Labor Day!

A number of bills sponsored by Senate Republican lawmakers have been signed into law during the week, including measures expanding youth hunting, shining light on ADA violations, seeking to repurpose a state facility, and increasing safety.

Vistra’s announcement August 21 that it would close Power Plants in Havana and Canton is an economic blow to its employees, nearby communities and the western Illinois region, according to Senator Jil Tracy.

Landmark sexual harassment and discrimination reforms, and a measure aimed at reducing property taxes by allowing for some government consolidation have recently been signed into law.

Senator Jil Tracy has been asked to serve on a new state Task Force that will study the property tax system in Illinois and work to find ways to provide relief to home and business owners.