NW Illinois News

The Illinois General Assembly recently concluded its fall veto session, with several major legislative actions taking place in a short period. The Democratic majority advanced nearly $11 billion in new spending over 48 hours, drawing criticism from Republican lawmakers who argue this will increase costs for families.

One of the most debated measures was an energy bill that Republicans labeled as the “Green New Giveaway.” They contend that the legislation, totaling $8 billion, does not add new power generation and instead gives more authority to unelected officials to raise consumer rates. The bill also repeals a longstanding ban on nuclear construction but includes what critics call handouts for special interests and provisions likely to increase costs for consumers.

Concerns were also raised about battery storage technology included in the bill. Questions were posed regarding the readiness of local communities to handle emergencies involving lithium battery fires. There is skepticism about subsidizing this technology at scale with public funds when some states have relied on private investment.

The energy legislation also affects property rights by reducing county control over renewable project siting and lowering permit fees counties can charge for these projects.

Another significant measure was Senate Bill 25, described by opponents as a mass transit bailout of $2.5 billion. Some lawmakers argued it would disproportionately impact downstate families who may not use the system but will still bear the financial burden.

On immigration, lawmakers passed House Bill 1312, which bans civil immigration arrests in or near state courthouses and allows residents to sue immigration agents who violate constitutional rights. State Rep. Patrick Windhorst warned, “This bill goes too far,” adding that “it is too broad and there will be grave consequences to our state if it is adopted.” Law enforcement organizations expressed similar concerns about unintended impacts on their work.

State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer criticized Democrats for their approach to immigration policy, attributing recent enforcement actions and challenges to decisions such as making Illinois a sanctuary state under previous laws.

In economic news, electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian announced layoffs affecting more than 600 workers nationwide due to declining sales across the e-vehicle sector. The company’s main production facility is located in Normal, Illinois; however, no layoff notices have been issued there yet as most affected employees are salaried staff based elsewhere.

House Republicans responded forcefully against another push for mid-decade congressional redistricting by Democrats that could have further increased their representation in Congress. Deputy Republican Leader Ryan Spain stated: “Let’s be clear: Republicans don’t oppose redistricting; we oppose rigging the system. Illinoisans deserve a fair, transparent process where voters choose their politicians not the other way around.”

Tax policy was also addressed during the session with approval of a measure decoupling Illinois’ tax code from federal law—a move some say amounts to a business tax hike. State Rep. Dan Ugaste commented: “We’re putting our businesses at a competitive disadvantage again... which is essentially a tax increase.” In response, another statement read: “Decoupling from the federal tax code is nothing more than a backdoor tax hike on Illinois job creators.”

McCombie has served as State Representative since her election in 2023 after succeeding Andrew Chesney as representative of Illinois' 89th House District.