SPRINGFIELD, IL- After hearing from families across Illinois overwhelmed by unexpected property tax hikes, State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) is taking action. He is co-sponsoring legislation to cap dramatic increases in home assessments and bring predictability back to the property tax system.
“This is about protecting homeowners from being blindsided by sudden spikes in their property taxes,” Balkema said. “People are doing everything they can to make ends meet, and the last thing they need is a massive new bill in the mailbox.”
Senate Bill 2246, co-sponsored by Senator Balkema, limits annual increases in assessed home value to the rate of inflation, unless the property has undergone physical improvements. The bill also ensures that municipalities operating under home rule authority cannot bypass these taxpayer protections — a safeguard aimed at leveling the playing field across Illinois communities.
Balkema points out that Illinois homeowners are already under strain due to the broader cost-of-living crisis and rising interest rates. He says the steady climb in property taxes is pushing more households to the breaking point and out of Illinois.
“We have people delaying retirement, skipping home repairs, or putting off plans for their kids’ future because of a sky rocketing tax bill,” Balkema said. “This bill offers a real solution — not more bureaucracy, not more excuses.”
At the federal level, Congress continues to debate reforms like the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction to relieve pressure on taxpayers. He applauds the efforts in Washington and urges Governor Pritzker to match that commitment here at home.
“People deserve action now. We can’t let another year go by where families are forced to choose between staying in their home and keeping up with bills,” Balkema said. “Let’s make this the year Illinois puts homeowners first.”
Senate Bill 2246 is filed and awaiting a hearing in the General Assembly.
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