Our community experienced some severe storm damage, and my thoughts are with everyone affected. I hope you and your loved ones are safe, and I’m saying prayers for all those dealing with the aftermath. Please be careful, check on your neighbors, and stay safe as cleanup begins.
This week’s topics include:
- Survey Results! What Concerns You Most About Artificial Intelligence?
- Making Local Government Financial Records Easier to Access
- Opportunity to tour ADM’s Facility in Decatur
- LifeLine Pilots – Bringing Transportation, Safety and Hope
- ComEd Small Business Relief Fund Applications Open June 15
- District Highlight – Susan Walker
- County Fair Season
- Upcoming Senior Expo on Wednesday, June 17
Survey Results! What Concerns You Most About Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a larger part of our everyday lives, from the way we search for information to how businesses operate and decisions are made. As this technology continues to evolve, it’s important that policymakers hear directly from the people who will be affected by it.
Recently, I asked constituents what concerns them most about the growing use of AI. The responses highlight several key issues that many Illinois residents are thinking about as this technology advances:
- Privacy and data security / Identity theft or fraud – 24%
- Lack of regulation or oversight – 22%
- AI making important decisions (healthcare, hiring, etc.) – 15%
- Loss of jobs or reduced employment opportunities – 14%
- Overreliance on AI in daily life – 11%
- AI encouraging dangerous behavior – 10%
- Not concerned about AI – 4%
The results show that privacy, security, and accountability remain top concerns for many residents. As conversations surrounding artificial intelligence continue in Springfield and across the country, feedback like this helps ensure that policy discussions reflect the priorities of the people we serve.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey and shared their thoughts.
Making Local Government Financial Records Easier to Access
A new law aimed at increasing transparency in local government will make it easier for Illinois residents to find and review public financial information.
House Bill 2137 requires counties, municipalities, and other local government entities with existing public websites to provide information on how residents can access audit reports and financial records through the Illinois Comptroller’s Office. The goal is to improve public awareness of available financial information and simplify the process of locating important government records.
Transparency and accessibility are important components of accountable government, and this new requirement will help residents stay informed about the financial health and operations of their local communities.
Read more about the bill here.
Opportunity to tour ADM’s Facility in Decatur
I had the opportunity to tour ADM’s facility in Decatur and see firsthand the incredible work being done by their team.
With more than 4,100 employees, ADM is a major employer and economic driver for Illinois. I was especially impressed to learn that the facility recently celebrated one full year without a recordable injury which is a remarkable achievement that reflects a strong commitment to workplace safety and the well-being of every employee.
Thank you to the ADM team for the tour and for all you do to support our communities, our economy, and Illinois agriculture.
LifeLine Pilots – Bringing Transportation, Safety and Hope
Grateful to attend an event hosted by LifeLine Pilots, a remarkable Peoria-based organization that provides free medical and humanitarian flights to individuals in need.
I was honored to meet Mary Roth, who relied on Lifeline Pilots for transportation to and from the Mayo Clinic during her cancer treatments, and Lindsey Kerr, the organization’s Executive Director. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact this organization has on families facing difficult circumstances.
Thank you to the pilots, volunteers, and supporters who make this mission possible.
ComEd Small Business Relief Fund Applications Open June 15
I also want to make local business owners aware of an upcoming opportunity through ComEd’s Small and Medium Business Customer Relief Fund.
Beginning June 15, eligible small and medium-sized businesses can apply online for financial assistance through the program. The fund was created to help businesses facing financial challenges and provide support with energy-related expenses.
Applications will only be accepted online, and business owners can visit ComEd’s website now to learn more about eligibility requirements and program details before applications officially open.
If you own or operate a small business in our community, I encourage you to review the program and see if your business may qualify for assistance.
You can find out more here.
District Highlight – Susan Walker
Our first District 53 Highlight! This week we are highlighting Susan Walker, who exemplifies the values of civic engagement and personal responsibility that help strengthen District 53. Throughout her life, Susan has maintained a perfect voting record, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to participating in the democratic process and making her voice heard in every General and Primary election.
In addition to her dedication as a voter, Susan has also maintained an outstanding driving record, never receiving a speeding ticket! These are two goals Susan has set and achieved.
Residents like Susan remind us that community leadership often takes many forms. Through her lifelong commitment to civic participation and responsible citizenship, Susan has set an example worthy of recognition and appreciation.
County Fair Season
County fair season is one of the highlights of summer throughout Illinois Senate District 53. From livestock exhibitions and grandstand events to carnival rides and local food vendors, county fairs are a cherished tradition that reflects the values and spirit of our district. I encourage everyone to take part in the festivities and support the fairs that help make District 53 such a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
Find details about your local county fair: Ford County June 13-20; Grundy County July 8-12; LaSalle County Fair — July 9–12; Marshall Putman County July 12-19 ; Iroquois County July 14-19; Peoria County July 14-18; Livingston County Fair (Pontiac) — July 15–18; Tazewell County July 27-29; Mclean County July 29–August 2 ; Livingston County Fair (Fairbury) — August 19–23; Bureau County August 26-30; Will County August 26-30
Upcoming Senior Expo on Wednesday, June 17
One of the most important parts of my job is making sure residents have access to the resources, services, and information they need to live healthy and independent lives. That is why I am excited to invite you to my upcoming Senior Expo.
This free event will bring together a variety of organizations and service providers from across our region, offering information on healthcare, senior services, veterans’ resources, financial planning, transportation assistance, and much more.
Whether you are a senior looking for resources for yourself, a caregiver seeking support for a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about services available in our community, I encourage you to attend.
Events like this are a great opportunity to ask questions, connect directly with local experts, and discover programs that can make a real difference in your daily life.
Find out more details here.
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Have a great rest of your week! If you ever need anything, please reach out to my office! We are happy to help! See locations and contacts below.
Yours truly,
Senator Chris Balkema