Deadlines
The General Assembly’s spring break is ending and the House returns to session next Tuesday. While it has been good to be busy in the district, we have much to deal with in Springfield in the short five weeks we have left in our scheduled spring legislative session (scheduled adjournment is Friday, May 19th!)
For the next two weeks we will be spending much of our time in committees working through legislation that has come over from the Senate, and then…the budget. I will keep you posted.
Revenues Decline in March
General funds revenues, which cover the ongoing spending programs of State of Illinois operations, dropped sharply in March 2023. The drop of $563 million in March 2023 cash receipts, put next to comparable figures for March 2022 cash inflows, signals the approaching fiscal challenges facing the State.
The FY23 budget, which covers State spending through the second quarter of 2023 up until June 30, 2023, is based on an assumption of healthy, booming State tax revenues. The March 2023 revenue numbers reported by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) are a warning that these assumptions may have to be modified or changed in the near future.
Firearms Ban Lawsuit
After hours of oral arguments Wednesday, a federal judge now has the case challenging Democrats’ firearms ban with a ruling on a preliminary injunction expected in the weeks ahead.
https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_7ce72514-d98a-11ed-a429-b7761ed13692.html
Tax Time
The deadline to file your taxes is Tuesday, April 18. If you haven’t filed yet, don’t panic. Here’s what you need to know.
https://www.dailyherald.com/business/20230413/havent-filed-taxes-yet-dont-panic-heres-what-to-know
Jacksonville Town Hall
I’m looking forward to talking with as many folks from the Jacksonville area as possible at my Town Hall scheduled for Monday, April 24 at 6pm at the Jacksonville Community Park Center. I’ll be giving an update on what’s happening in Springfield, and I’m eager to get your input and feedback. Please stop by!
Around the District
I was honored to attend the Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing Legislative Luncheon with graduating nurses who are the cornerstone of our Healthcare System! I, along with Rep CD Davidsmeyer and Rep Greg Sharpe of Missouri, were able to update everyone on relevant legislation being discussed.