Quincy Reporter

Governor JB Pritzker has signed into law a $53.1 billion spending plan, marking the largest budget in Illinois state history. The Fiscal Year 2025 budget exceeds last year’s enacted budget by $2.6 billion and includes pay raises for politicians and $1 billion allocated for non-citizens. Additionally, Democrats have voted for $1 billion in tax increases to support this record-breaking expenditure.

Over the past four years, the Democrat-controlled General Assembly has collaborated with Governor Pritzker to significantly increase government spending. Since the Fiscal Year 2020 budget, Democratic lawmakers have raised state expenditures by more than $13 billion, growing from nearly $40 billion in 2020 to over $53 billion this year.

In addition to the budget, other legislation was debated during the final weeks of the spring session.

**Legislation Considered Beneficial**

Senate Bill 3350 aims to improve public access to life-saving fentanyl test strips.

House Bill 681 addresses errors in how the state's Prisoner Review Board handles parole hearings for violent offenders and notifies victims of potential releases. Recently, a released convicted violent felon killed his ex-partner's 11-year-old son and injured her and another child. Although initially passed by the House, it was amended in the Senate and did not receive a concurrence vote before adjournment.

**Controversial Legislation**

House Bill 4720 allows personal income data of all Illinois taxpayers to be shared with the Treasurer’s office for marketing purposes without taxpayer notice. Despite bipartisan objections, this legislation narrowly passed.

Senate Bill 3157 proposed giving the Treasurer authority to deny some non-profits access to state programs based on their religious beliefs. This bill faced criticism as an attack on religious freedom. Vigorous debate led to its withdrawal from consideration.

House Bill 4582 removes a requirement for school boards to seek voter approval via referendum for certain types of bonds. Critics argue that taxing bodies should need voter approval to exceed bond limits; however, this legislation is now awaiting the Governor's signature.

**Judicial Ruling on Election Legislation**

A Sangamon County judge has halted legislation that would have restricted ballot choices by preventing political parties from slating candidates when none had appeared on primary election ballots. The judge ruled that such restrictions severely limit fundamental voting rights.

**Upcoming Event**

Illinois Free Fishing Days will commence next Friday and continue through Father’s Day weekend.

[Source: NBC Chicago](https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/illinois-free-fishing-days-june-no-license-required/3457089)