Hi everyone! I hope you’ve had a great weekend, as always. This week, lawmakers are back in Springfield for the first week of the General Assembly’s fall veto session. As we return to the Capitol, there are several important issues facing our state, and I remain focused on advocating for the families, taxpayers, and communities I represent.
Veto session provides another opportunity to address legislation, discuss the challenges facing Illinois, and push for commonsense solutions. I’ll continue working to ensure your voice is heard in Springfield and keep you updated on important developments throughout the session.
This week’s topics include:
- Honored to Recognize our Veterans
- Visiting Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Schools
- Protecting Public Safety While Safeguarding Data
- Illinois Ranks 4th in the Nation for Debt Per Capita
- November is National Family Caregivers Month
Honored to Recognize Our Veterans
I was honored to have the opportunity to speak at the Livingston County Veterans Luncheon. It was a privilege to join local leaders, veterans, and community members to recognize the men and women who have served our country. I am grateful for their service and sacrifices, and I appreciate everyone who helped organize this event and continues to support our veterans. We can never do enough to thank those who have fought to protect our freedoms.
Visiting Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Schools
I recently had the opportunity to tour Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Community Unit School District #5 with Superintendent Jeremy Darnell. I was incredibly impressed by the culture throughout the district and the forward-thinking approach the leadership team is taking to serve students, families, and the community. From continued investments in school facilities and classroom resources to a strong commitment to academic excellence, it is clear that the district is focused on preparing students for the future. I appreciate Superintendent Darnell and his team taking the time to show me the great work happening across this community!
Illinois Ranks 4th in the Nation for Debt Per Capita
Illinois continues to face a serious debt problem. According to the Reason Foundation’s 2026 Government Finance report, Illinois ranks 4th highest in the nation for combined state and local debt per capita, at $31,582 per resident. This figure includes debt accumulated by state government, counties, cities, and school districts.
Illinois families deserve responsible financial management and greater accountability for how taxpayer dollars are spent. We need to focus on reducing debt, controlling spending, and putting our state’s finances on a more sustainable path.
Read more here: Reason Foundation – 2026 Government Finance Report
Protecting Public Safety While Safeguarding Data
I support the use of Flock Safety license plate reader cameras as an investigative tool for law enforcement. Just as important as giving officers access to modern technology is making sure the data collected is handled responsibly.
Flock’s system uses Amazon Web Services (AWS) to store data, with automated deletion policies designed to ensure information is permanently removed after its retention period. AWS provides timestamped audit logs and monitoring tools that allow agencies to verify when data has been deleted. Flock also states that it does not sell customer data to third parties, and local agencies retain ownership and control over their information.
The cameras capture individual images of vehicles on public roadways rather than continuously tracking individuals, and they do not use facial recognition. Searches require a user ID and a reason, creating an audit trail to support oversight and accountability.
I had the opportunity to meet with Chief Catton and Mayor Dahl from East Peoria to discuss how we can use these tools effectively while maintaining trust with our communities. I believe law enforcement should have access to technology that helps solve crimes and protect our communities, while ensuring strong safeguards are in place for data privacy, security, and accountability.
You can read more on transparency here.
November is National Family Caregivers Month
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the millions of Americans who dedicate their time, energy, and support to caring for loved ones. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, approximately 63 million Americans provide ongoing care for a family member or loved one with a medical condition, illness, or disability.
Family caregivers play an important role in supporting individuals and families across our communities. While caregiving can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with challenges and sacrifices. Caregivers may experience physical and emotional stress, fatigue, sleep difficulties, and, over time, caregiver burnout.
This month is also an opportunity to recognize the importance of supporting those who care for others. The National Institute on Aging encourages caregivers to prioritize their own well-being by maintaining healthy habits, getting enough rest, making time to relax, and asking for help when needed.
I want to take a moment to thank the family members, friends, and individuals who dedicate themselves to caring for others. Their compassion and commitment make a difference in the lives of those around them. We must also remember that caregivers need support and time to care for themselves, too.
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