NW Illinois News

Illinois Senators have returned to Springfield after a two-week period in their home districts. They are set to review and debate legislation recently passed by the House. The agenda includes evaluating House and Senate bills, including appropriation measures.

Senator Andrew Chesney expressed strong opposition to House bills that propose tax and fee increases or promote what he defines as the Democratic "woke agenda." He outlined key issues such as policies favoring illegal immigrants, initiatives allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports, and efforts to ban native-themed school mascots.

The upcoming fiscal year budget is a critical task for the legislature. Governor J.B. Pritzker proposed a budget exceeding $53 billion despite an expected deficit. Chesney remains steadfast in his commitment to not support an unbalanced budget that elevates taxes or aligns with what he views as misguided priorities. His focus is on fiscal responsibility, emphasizing spending cuts on programs he associates with the Governor’s initiatives for migrants and illegal immigrants.

Separately, Chesney is collaborating with the Northwest Illinois Alliance of Realtors on a pet food drive to benefit the Friends Forever Humane Society in Freeport. The drive, running from April 28 to May 16, aims to collect much-needed supplies.

Simultaneously, a document shredding event is set for May 10 at Machesney Park Town Center. Co-hosted with Machesney Park Mayor Steve Johnson, the event provides residents a secure way to dispose of old documents.

As the planting season commences, Illinois farmers are working intensively, which means increased farm equipment on roads. The American Farm Bureau Federation advises drivers to exercise caution and remain alert for the slow-moving agricultural machinery.