NW Illinois News

On Wednesday, three Illinois House Republicans who are also family farmers presented legislation meant to support Illinois' agriculture sector. State Representatives Dan Swanson, Jason R. Bunting, and Wayne Rosenthal aim to advance bills designed to aid family farms in Illinois.

Dan Swanson, a sixth-generation farmer, sponsors HB 1501, which proposes an income tax credit for those selling or renting agricultural assets to new farmers, stressing the importance of sustaining agriculture. "There are young people in Illinois right now who want to get started in farming, but don’t always have the opportunity," Swanson stated. Despite the bill not being called before the deadline, Swanson emphasizes the need to focus on agriculture's future.

Representative Jason R. Bunting introduced House Resolution 29, aiming to declare September 15-21, 2025, as Farm Safety Week. Bunting also sponsors bills HB 3204 and HB 3205 to extend Scott’s Law, advocating for safer road conditions for farm equipment. "This legislation would make the road safer for farmers, and for every other Illinoisan who drives the rural roads of this state," Bunting said.

Wayne Rosenthal, former Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, backs raising the Illinois estate tax exemption, to aid family farms facing double taxation. Rosenthal remarked, "This isn’t just a tax, it’s a threat to our way of life." He argues that landowners face penalties unlike monetary asset holders and calls for a revision to address inflation impacts.

The article also notes a statement on the importance of supporting farmers: “I’m proud to stand with the farmers in our caucus and across Illinois.”

In economic news, House Republicans Jeff Keicher, Joe Sosnowski, and Travis Weaver urge the focus on state policies aiding Illinois families and businesses rather than attributing issues to federal policies. "Rather than using federal politics as a scapegoat, Illinois lawmakers should take ownership of the policies within our control," they said, highlighting Illinois' lower home construction rate and high property tax as results of local policies. The representatives emphasize cooperation for economic growth.

Republicans are pushing for legislative clarity in women's sports following a federal executive order. Representative Tom Weber introduced HB 4027, ensuring athletic opportunities for both sexes. Rep. Regan Deering supports HB 1117, both seeking to reinforce fairness in female sports. Weber emphasized protecting female athletes' opportunities, while Deering remarked, "Privacy and safety are not political issues."

The Illinois tourism agency faces scrutiny over potential ethics violations. Deputy Director Daniel Thomas was found to have financial ties to a former company involved in state marketing efforts. The inspector general noted Thomas's activities raised questions of impartiality, leading to immediate termination by the administration. "Public officials and state workers should be serving the people of Illinois, not looking for ways to profit off their positions," a statement highlighted.

House Republicans held their fourth annual Women to Watch Conference, celebrating local female leaders. Recognizing women making community impacts, the event featured nominees from the 89th District. A statement expressed the importance of acknowledging women's contributions, with plans to continually sponsor the event.

Finally, upcoming events include a Spring Photo Contest and a Summer Reading Program, meant to engage community members and maintain student literacy during summer.