Quincy Reporter

Illinois lawmakers are set to return to Springfield on January 4 for a "lame-duck session" to address the remaining business of the 103rd General Assembly. These sessions, held after elections and before newly elected officials take office, are often seen as opportunities for outgoing legislators to support controversial legislation without political consequences. State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) noted this perception.

In past lame-duck sessions, significant legislation has been passed, including a weapons ban and abortion services expansion in January 2023, the SAFE-T Act in 2021, and a substantial income tax increase in 2011.

The new 104th biennial General Assembly will convene on January 8. Sen. Tracy emphasized that this period allows lawmakers to reflect on past lessons and focus on collaboration amidst Illinois' challenges rather than partisan conflicts.

Illinois faces a projected budget deficit exceeding $3 billion next fiscal year due to increased state spending fueled by temporary federal funds and initiatives by Gov. JB Pritzker. These include programs for noncitizens costing over $1 billion annually, supported by recent tax increases enacted by the Governor.

Sen. Tracy urged Gov. Pritzker to balance the upcoming budget without further tax hikes, as many Illinoisans struggle financially. She encourages residents to join her petition against new taxes at https://il-50-senate.web.fireside21.app/forms/form/?ID=7.

Unemployment remains high in Illinois, with state reports indicating 1,176 layoffs announced in November and an October unemployment rate of 5.3%, the third highest nationally. The Tax Foundation ranked Illinois 37th for business tax climate in its 2024 report.

Sen. Tracy stated that fiscal responsibility and economic growth initiatives could help improve job prospects and prosperity across Illinois communities.

As of January 1, 293 new laws took effect in Illinois, covering workplace protections, insurance expansions, public safety measures, environmental initiatives, school-related issues, veteran support, environmental changes, and updated workplace requirements. The final phase of the state's minimum wage increase also raised wages to $15 per hour for workers aged 18 and older.

For a complete list of new laws effective January 1: https://senatorjiltracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/New-Laws-Taking-Effect-January-1_2025-1.pdf