NW Illinois News

Democrats in the U.S. Senate moved to end the federal government shutdown following last week’s elections. Illinois State Senator Andrew Chesney responded to the development, stating: “I am pleased to know that a handful of Democrats have finally come to their senses and are joining Republicans in approving a clean continuing resolution that reopens the federal government. What comes as no surprise, however, is that their change-of-heart came less than a week after an election, proving that their opposition was never about policy; it was about politics.

“I stand with our Republican delegation in Washington who are committed to putting an end to Biden-era policies that provide for illegal immigrant healthcare, and I look forward to the resolution making it’s way to the desk of President Donald Trump for his signature.”

When lawmakers returned to Springfield for the fall Veto Session, only a few vetoes were initially expected for consideration. However, the agenda expanded quickly to include several new and previously introduced bills. Among these were measures related to public transit funding for Chicago, changes in tax policy affecting businesses, an $8 billion energy rate increase, and a bill on physician-assisted suicide.

Senate Republicans expressed concern about both the priorities and procedures of the session. They criticized what they described as rushed decision-making with limited public input or debate. According to them, these actions could have significant consequences for families and businesses throughout Illinois.

Senator Chesney co-sponsored Senate Bill 642 during this session. The bill aims to expand property tax relief for seniors by raising income limits on eligibility for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption over several years. Starting in 2026, the limit would increase from its current level up to $75,000 and continue rising through 2028.

Chesney said he supported this measure because it seeks to help more seniors remain in their homes by qualifying for property tax relief.

In addition, Senate Bill 1950—which would legalize physician-assisted suicide—passed through the Senate with 30 votes and now awaits action from Governor Pritzker. Chesney voted against this legislation. The bill allows terminally ill adults given six months or less to live to request medication from physicians in order to voluntarily end their lives. Governor Pritzker has two months to decide whether he will sign or veto the measure.

Chesney has represented Illinois’ 45th Senate District since being elected in 2023 as a Republican succeeding Brian Stewart.