Illinois Ranks #7 for State and Local Tax Burden in 2025
Tax Day has passed, and it left many Illinoisians with a bad taste in their mouth. According to a WalletHub report, the combination of Income, Property, Sales and Excise taxes will cost each taxpayer an average of a whopping 10.2% of their income. This pushes Illinois from 8th place to 7th place in the nation. Additionally, Illinois has the 2nd highest property taxes in the country. My #1 priority is to drive solutions that will lower taxes for residents so that they can stay in their homes and thrive in our local economy instead of having to leave the state.
Senate Democrats Advance Dangerous Cannabis Bill
Senate Democrats recently advanced controversial legislation that potentially ties the hands of police and puts public safety at risk.
Senate Bill 42 removes the requirement that cannabis be stored in an odor-proof container and prevents law enforcement from stopping or searching a vehicle solely based on the smell of cannabis.
Senate Republicans argue that this proposal handcuffs law enforcement and undermines their ability to identify impaired drivers. The smell of cannabis has long been a reasonable and constitutionally accepted basis for officers to investigate potential impairment and, in turn, remove drivers who may be under the influence to ensure the safety of other drivers on Illinois roadways. If the smell of alcohol warrants further investigation, why should cannabis be treated differently?
I opposed the measure when it came before the Senate, arguing that the proposal sends the wrong message to Illinois drivers and discourages proactive policing of our roads.
SB 42 now advances to the House for further consideration.
Legislation to Improve Food Safety for People with Celiac Disease Passes Senate
Legislation proposed to improve food safety for individuals living with celiac disease passed out of the Illinois Senate unanimously last week.
Senate Bill 1288 would require all food handlers in Illinois to complete training on celiac disease and the safe handling of gluten-free foods. The bill also strengthens allergen awareness training by adding sesame as a major allergen, requiring a better understanding of gluten-related risks.
Under the legislation, food handlers would be trained on topics including the symptoms of celiac disease, methods to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, and proper labeling of gluten-free products.
Senate Bill 1288 now heads to the Illinois House for further consideration.
