Senator Balkema’s Weekly Update: Feb. 3

Senator Balkema Files Senate Joint Resolution to Celebrate 100 Years of Route 66

Winding through the heart of Illinois’ 53rd Senate District, Route 66 has long been a gateway to adventure, history, and economic growth, especially in Pontiac, where the highway’s legacy remains a vibrant part of the community. To honor its impact and celebrate its centennial, State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) is officially declaring 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year.

“For decades, Pontiac has been a must-visit stop for travelers from around the world, with its iconic Route 66 Museum, historic murals, and classic roadside attractions,” emphasized Balkema. “Route 66 has fueled local businesses, strengthened our communities, and put our district on the map. Celebrating 100 years is not only an honored reflection of our past but also a commitment to preserving its legacy for future generations.”

Senate Joint Resolution 12, filed by Senator Balkema, highlights the rich history of Route 66, and declares 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year to honor the 100th anniversary of the historic highway. Route 66, fondly known as the “Main Street of America” and the “Mother Road,” was first established in 1926 and has played a pivotal role in the history and development of the United States. Illinois holds a special place in the history of Route 66, as it was the first state to pave the highway in its entirety and serves as the starting point of this iconic roadway. From its historic diners and motels to its roadside attractions and cultural landmarks, Illinois has preserved the spirit of Route 66 while fostering economic growth and tourism along its path.

New Legislation Would Require Law Enforcement in IL to Coordinate with ICE

With public safety a top priority, Illinois Senate Republicans unveiled new legislation during the week that would close critical gaps in state immigration policies, which currently allow undocumented immigrants convicted of violent crimes to remain in Illinois. 

Senator Balkema plans to co-sponsor Senate Bill 1313 that requires state law enforcement to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify, report, and deport undocumented individuals who commit serious offenses—such as violent crimes, drug offenses, and sex crimes—ensuring their removal from Illinois to enhance public safety.

Republicans say the legislation exposes a glaring contradiction in Governor J.B. Pritzker’s stance on public safety. Despite his public claim that “violent criminals who are undocumented and convicted of violent crime should be deported,” the TRUST Act he supports ties the hands of law enforcement, preventing them from working with federal authorities to deport most offenders. Republicans argue this hypocrisy endangers public safety and leaves Illinois families vulnerable to dangerous repeat offenders.

Senate Republicans are also pushing to repeal the TRUST Act, which restricts state and local police from cooperating with federal immigration officials except under narrow circumstances, like when a federal warrant is issued.

Senator Balkema says that by removing these restrictions and enhancing coordination with ICE, Republicans believe law enforcement will be better equipped to remove undocumented felons and improve public safety. Senate Republicans urge Governor JB Pritzker and Democrat lawmakers to support these measures to prevent violent criminals from staying in Illinois.

Illinois Struggles with High Unemployment and Lagging Job Growth

Illinois’ job market remains sluggish, with an unemployment rate of 5.2% in December, the third highest in the nation. Approximately 340,000 residents were actively seeking work, outpacing only California and Nevada in unemployment. The national rate was 4.1%.

In 2024, Illinois added 56,000 jobs, but its growth rate of 0.92% lagged behind the national average of 1.42%. The state saw gains in government jobs and private education and health services, but key sectors such as manufacturing and finance experienced declines.

Illinois’ post-pandemic recovery remains weak, ranking 46th in the nation with only a 0.25% increase in jobs since January 2020. High taxes, a burdensome business environment, and rising housing costs are contributing to the state’s sluggish economic performance. Senator Balkema believes the key to reversing Illinois’ sluggish job market lies in comprehensive tax reform and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the need to lower taxes, simplify regulations, and address the state’s budget and pension issues. By providing real relief to businesses and working families, Illinois can foster job growth, attract skilled workers, and restore economic vitality.

Senator Balkema Needs Your Help to Create Valentine’s Cheer to Seniors

Senator Balkema is launching the annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive, inviting students, church groups, scouting organizations, and community members to create homemade Valentine’s Day cards for seniors in assisted living centers, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities.

The cards, featuring messages of kindness and respect, will be collected and delivered to local care facilities, spreading joy and brightening the days of elderly residents. Senator Balkema says this effort will also strengthen the bond between generations, as younger community members actively participate in showing appreciation for those who have paved the way.

Cards and drawings can be dropped off or mailed until Feb. 7. You can drop off or mail your cards to either of these offices: Pontiac Office: 305 West Madison St, Pontiac, IL 617642 or Dwight Office: 132 East Main St, Dwight, IL 6173 Senator Balkema’s office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Fridays. For more information about dropping cards off after hours, contact Senator’s office at 815-844-9179.

Chris Balkema

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