Senator Jil Tracy joins her Senate Republican colleagues in calling on the Governor and other state leaders to return to the Capitol and complete the General Assembly’s Spring legislative session.

The 47th District Senator says the Governor has not yet announced any plans for a regional re-opening of the state’s economy, and the lawmakers’ return to the Capitol could spur some action. She notes that recent suggestions by Senate Republicans – such as resuming elective surgeries and allowing parks and some businesses to re-open – were included in a modified stay-at-home order issued April 23 by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“It’s good to know that our concerns were heard by the Pritzker Administration. Our top priority is keeping our citizens safe, but many important and time-sensitive issues still need to be acted on by lawmakers in Springfield,” Senator Tracy said. “By observing all necessary Public Health protocols, we should be able to return to our work in the Capitol, even if it is for a short while, to take action on issues like the Fair Maps amendment that will be before voters this fall. We also need to have input in developing a budget for our state for the coming fiscal year, as well as a plan of action to get our economy back on its feet when the health crisis eases.”

Senator Tracy’s comments followed the release of a statement April 27 by Senate Republican Leader Bill Brady on the need for lawmakers to return to Springfield.
 
“Today I called the Governor, the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate and told them Illinois Senate Republicans stand ready to return to Springfield to take up the timely and important issues facing Illinois and its residents, such as the fair maps amendment and COVID-19 related issues,” stated Senator Brady. “The work we do for our residents is essential and it can be done in a safe manner by following the proper social distancing guidelines.  Other units of government are meeting and doing the people’s business.  It is time for the Illinois legislature to do so.”