My office is always here to help you, and I’m committed to representing our community to the best of my ability. Your feedback is important to me — it helps ensure that I’m staying connected to the needs and priorities of the people I serve. If you ever need assistance, you can find my offices’ addresses and contacts here. I appreciate the honest feedback. Please feel free to reply to this email with additional suggestions or thoughts on how I can improve my performance.
Climate Survey Results
Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in my recent climate survey. The results offer valuable insight into how people across our district are thinking about this important issue.
Interestingly, while 68% of respondents said they do not believe human activity is the primary cause of climate change (32% said yes), an even greater number— 87% — said they do not support using taxpayer dollars to fund initiatives like shutting down coal plants or limiting fossil fuel-powered vehicles (13% said they do support using taxpayer money). This contrast highlights an important distinction: while opinions vary on the cause of climate change, there is strong consensus against using public funds for certain government-led climate initiatives.
I am seeking out more data to fully understand the climate change topic and I would appreciate you sharing your additional perspectives with me as my staff continues to partner with many organizations that provide facts and data on this topic.Your feedback is helping guide my review of the state budget and my efforts to identify responsible ways to reduce wasteful spending and ease the tax burden on Illinois families.
Governor Pritzker Announces Intent to Seek Third Term
Last week, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced that he intends to run for a third term in office. Illinois does not place term limits on governors, and Pritzker will be the first to pursue a third term since the 1980s.
First elected in 2018, Pritzker has served as governor since 2019. Since that time, state spending has increased by nearly $15 billion, marking an approximate 40 percent rise over six years. Under Governor Pritzker’s watch, Illinois currently has one of the highest tax burdens in the nation, one of the highest rates of unemployment in the Midwest and he has directed billions of dollars in funding for illegal immigrants.
Controversial Prisoner Review Board Legislation Signed into Law
Illinois Republicans are pushing back against newly signed legislation that they say weakens oversight of the Prisoner Review Board (PRB) and puts public safety at risk.
Senate Bill 19, signed recently by Gov. Pritzker, makes sweeping changes to the Illinois’ PRB including extending member terms from six to eight years. Republicans warn this move shields gubernatorial appointees from accountability at a time when the PRB should be facing more thorough vetting.
The Prisoner Review Board is responsible for determining whether specific individuals, often found guilty of serious offenses, should be granted release. During Governor Pritzker’s administration, the board approved a significantly higher number of releases compared to previous governors, including in several notable cases involving convicted murderers.
Just last year, a parolee released by the board stabbed his ex-girlfriend killed and killed an 11-year-old boy less than 24 hours after his release, an incident that sparked outrage from Republican lawmakers who had repeatedly tried to warn about issues with the board.
I believe SB 19 makes it more difficult for the PRB to keep violent criminals off the streets and shields PRB members from being held accountable by the Senate.
The law takes effect immediately.
IDNR, Fire Marshal Urge Fireworks Safety Ahead of July 4th
With the Fourth of July fast approaching, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the State Fire Marshal’s office are reminding Illinoisans to prioritize fireworks safety and follow state regulations.
Licensed professionals are the only ones authorized to handle display fireworks under the Illinois Explosives Act. The IDNR oversees licensing and storage certification for these explosives, while the Office of the State Fire Marshal regulates approved consumer fireworks that are only allowed in communities that permit them by ordinance.
Officials stressed the dangers associated with fireworks, citing 156 injuries and one death during the most recent reporting period. Mortars, roman candles, bottle rockets, and sparklers accounted for the majority of injuries.
Residents are encouraged to attend licensed public displays rather than attempt their own.
For emergencies or to report violations, contact IDNR at 217-782-9976 or OSFM at 217-785-0969.
A Fin-tastic Day at the Fishing Derby!
The kids’ fishing derby was a “reel” success! Smiles, sunshine, and lots of fish made for an unforgettable day. From little ones catching their very first fish to big laughs with new friends, the joy was nonstop. Huge thanks to everyone who came out and helped create such a fun-filled, “fin-tastic” event for our young anglers!
