Friend,
I hope you enjoyed your weekend. I geared up for the start of 2026 Session. Spring session kicks off this week and is scheduled to run through the end of May.
Topics below include:
- Balkema Opposes Energy Law That Threatens to Raise Energy Costs for Illinois Families
- Lawmaker Set to Return to the Capitol for Spring Session
- 2026 State Corporate Income Tax Rates and Brackets
- Valentines for Seniors Card Drive
Balkema Opposes Energy Law That Threatens to Raise Energy Costs for Illinois Families
In a sweeping change to Illinois energy policy, Governor Pritzker has signed a law that eliminates long-standing limits on how much utilities can raise electric rates.
The law opens the door to significant increases in future bills and directs large sums of money toward experimental energy programs that may offer little relief to consumers.
The law also weakens local control by allowing large battery storage facilities to be placed as close as 150 feet from homes and farms. Many families and community leaders are concerned about safety, property values, and the lack of local input.
I opposed this legislation because it eliminates safeguards that kept utility bills manageable for Illinois families. With energy costs already high, removing these protections will put even more financial pressure on households. I am focusing on driving electricity costs down and making Illinois affordable for families and businesses.
Lawmakers Set to Return to the Capitol for Spring Session
With lawmakers set to return to the Capitol on Tuesday, January 13 for the start of the spring legislative session, my colleagues and I are renewing calls for a change in direction following actions taken during the fall Veto Session that they say have made life more expensive and more difficult for Illinois families and businesses.
During Veto Session, Democrat lawmakers finalized and advanced several controversial measures despite ongoing concerns about affordability and the rising cost of living. Those measures included a sweeping transit bailout for Mayor Brandon Johnson and the City of Chicago, a major tax increase on Illinois businesses and manufacturers, and a new energy omnibus package expected to drive up utility rates statewide.
As the spring session approaches, I believe the General Assembly needs to shift the focus toward policies that provide real relief for working families and job creators throughout the state. Addressing the affordability crisis here in Illinois must be a top priority as lawmakers return to Springfield.
Spring session kicks off this week and is scheduled to run through the end of May. You can view the full schedule for the Senate here and the House here.
I am focusing on:
- Property Tax
- Energy
- Education
- Budget
You can view my full objectives here.
2026 State Corporate Income Tax Rates and Brackets
Illinois’ 9.5 percent corporate income tax rate is among the highest in the nation and significantly exceeds the national average, raising important questions about competitiveness and economic growth.
Read the full story here.
Valentines for Seniors Card Drive
With Valentine’s Day approaching, Representative Bunting, Representative Tipsword and I are inviting you to write a Valentine’s Day card for seniors in our district. These small gestures mean so much and help remind our seniors they are valued and remembered.
Last year, members of the Senate Republican Caucus collected and delivered more than 60,000 Valentine’s cards statewide, helping brighten the day for thousands of seniors.
Residents interested in participating are encouraged to contact their local Senate Republican office for drop-off details or visit http://senatorchrisbalkema.com/events to learn more about the program.
Drop off or mail cards by February 2nd, 2026 to one of the legislative offices:
• 305 West Madison Street, Pontiac, IL 61764
• 132 East Main Street, Dwight, IL 61738
• 125 West Front Street, El Paso, IL 61738
• 1001 E. Grant Street, Watseka, IL 60970
Drop off hours are between 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Monday- Friday. If you plan to deliver the cards in person, we kindly encourage you call ahead to ensure someone will be available to receive them.
Have a great rest of your week! If you ever need anything, please reach out to my office!
Senator Chris Balkema