Budget

Sen. Craig Wilcox

5-4-22

State Journal-Register

Issue: Tax relief contained in new state budget deal

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

5-4-22

State Journal-Register

Issue: Tax relief contained in new state budget deal

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

5-5-22

Biz News Post (Industry media)

Issue: Illinois’ credit upgrade

Education

Sen. Neil Anderson

5-2-22

State Journal-Register (Springfield)

Issue: CRT/curriculum transparency

Events

Sen. Barickman, Rep. Bennett will host town hall about Pontiac Correctional Center

Shaw Local

Shaw Local News Network

05/04/2022

“State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) and Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City) are hosting a town hall meeting 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Pontiac High School, 1100 E. Indiana Ave., to discuss the Pontiac Correctional Center.”

 

Youth Advisory Council for State Sen Terri Bryant holds Spring Meeting at Vandalia Statehouse

Vandalia Radio

Todd Stapleton

05/04/2022

“You may remember a few weeks ago we had information on State Senator Jason Plummer’s Youth Advisory Council—that met in the fall and proposed a bill and then held the mock proceedings recently in Springfield at the State Capitol.”

 

“Well, 58th district State Senator Terri Bryant holds a similar program for students in her district.”

 

Sen. Fowler’s Student Advisory Council gather to learn about state government

KFVS 12

Lucas Sellem

05/04/2022

“State Senator Dale Fowler’s Student Advisory Council gathered at the Stadium Club in Carbondale, Ill. to learn about the workings of their state government.”

 

Adopt-a-pet event sponsored by State Senator Sally Turner at Humane Society of Logan County

WLCN 96.3 FM

Staff

05/05/2022

“In addition, Senator Turner is hosting a pet picture contest on her social media page; click here to learn more about the contest (please note the deadline for entries to be emailed for the photo contest is May 8).”

 

Town Hall meeting regarding Pontiac Correctional Center set up for May 10

Erich Murphy

Pontiac Daily Leader

05/05/2022

“A Town Hall meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 10, at Pontiac Township High School to discuss the situation at Pontiac Correctional Center. The event is being sponsored by State Sen. Jason Barickman and State Rep. Tom Bennett.”

 

Illinois State Representative Tom Bennett: Reminder: Pontiac Correctional Center town hall is Tuesday May 10

Ford County Chronicle

Staff

05/06/2022

“On Tuesday May 10 Senator Jason Barickman and I will be hosting a town hall meeting for members of the public to discuss the latest news about the Pontiac Correctional Center. The event is at Pontiac Township High School, 1100 E. Indiana Avenue, from 6:30 until 8 p.m. and is open to the public.”

 

Sen Don DeWitte

5-8-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Shredding event, May 14

 

Sen Don DeWitte

5-7-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Shredding event, May 14

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-6-22

Ford County Chronicle

Issue: Pontiac Correctional Center Town Hall

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-6-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Pontiac Correctional Center Town Hall

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

5-6-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Pontiac Correctional Center Town Hall

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-5-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Pontiac Correctional Center Town Hall

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

5-6-22

Mississippi Valley Publishing (Hancock Journal-Pilot)

Issue: Teachers Appreciation Week

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-4-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Town Hall for Pontiac Correctional Center

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-4-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Youth Advisory Council

Interviews/ Op-Eds

DeWitte: GOP prefers measured approach to clean energy

Northwest Herald, Shaw Local

Donald DeWitte

05/03/2022

“State Sen. Donald DeWitte, a Republican, represents the 33rd Senate District in Kane and McHenry counties.”

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-2/3-22

WBBM Radio (Chicago) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-3-22

Pure Oldies 107.5FM (Springfield)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

5-2-22

WJBD Radio (Salem)

Issue: Dedication of the Murray Center Memorial Garden

 

Penny for Your Thoughts 5-4-22

The News-Gazette

Brian Barnhart

05/04/2022

“Brian Barnhart hosts. Hour one is a Penny open line. Hour two, Gun Violence a Community Conversation this week's guest State Senator Chapin Rose.”

 

NEWSRADIO WJPF INTERVIEW WITH TERRI BRYANT | MAY 4, 2022

WJPF NewsRadio

Staff

05/04/2022

“Illinois State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) joins The Morning Newswatch.”

 

Working across the aisle for southern Illinois – Episode 33

WSIU/NPR Public Boradcasting

Staff

05/04/2022

“Dale Fowler: Working across the aisle for southern Illinois – Episode 33”

Prisons

Bipartisan Group Of Lawmakers Call For Joint Hearing On Pontiac And Vandalia Prisons

Effingham Radio, Pontiac Daily Leader

Staff

05/06/2022

‘“The Pritzker administrations has not been transparent or forthcoming about what if any long-term plans are in place for Illinois prisons, which is a major reason why this process needs legislative oversight,” said State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington).’

 

‘“The Vandalia Correctional Center is one of the largest employers in the area, serving as an economic anchor for the surrounding communities, just as most prisons are for the areas where they are located. Any changes to these facilities could have absolutely devastating effects to the local economies,” said State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Vandalia).’

 

‘“The Department of Correction’s inability to provide a clear and consistent answer regarding their future plans for the Vandalia and Pontiac Correctional Facilities is yet another example of the Administration’s pattern of secrecy when it comes to correctional facilities,” said State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Bryant).’

 

‘“The complete lack of transparency and contradictory statements about the Pontiac and Vandalia Correctional Facilities has created unnecessary anxiety and uncertainty for both their employees and local communities,” said Senate Deputy Minority Leader Sue Rezin (R-Morris).’

 

Lawmakers call for hearing on downsizing at Pontiac, Vandalia prisons

Quad City Times, 97.9 XFM Premier Broadcasting

TAYLOR VIDMAR

05/06/2022

‘“The Pritzker administration has not been transparent or forthcoming about what if any long-term plans are in place for Illinois prisons, which is a major reason why this process needs legislative oversight,” said state Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, in a press release.’

 

‘“Any changes to these facilities could have absolutely devastating effects to the local economies,” said state Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Vandalia.’

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-6-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Partial closure of the Pontiac Correctional Center

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

5-6-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Partial closure of the Pontiac Correctional Center

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

5-6-22

WXEF Radio (Effingham)

Issue: Partial closure of the Pontiac Correctional Center

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

5-6-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Partial closure of the Pontiac Correctional Center

Roe v. Wade

Illinois Sen. Bryant reacts to SCOTUS leak

WSIL TV 3

Brian Wilson

05/03/2022

“Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) says the fact this information was leaked is a major issue.”

 

Roe reaction: Illinois changes unlikely

93.9 WTAX

Staff

05/03/2022

“Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) says the Supreme Court would not outlaw abortion if it does overturn the nearly fifty-year-old law.”

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

5-3-22

WQAD-TV (Quad Cities)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Sally Turner

5-4-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Sally Turner

5-3-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-4-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (multiple newscasts) (2 other sources)

Issue: Governor politicizes Supreme Court/Abortion controversy

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-4-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy) (3 other sources)

Issue: Governor politicizes Supreme Court/Abortion controversy

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-3-22

WCCU-TV (Springfield) (3 other sources)

Issue: Governor politicizes Supreme Court/Abortion controversy

 

Abortion safe and legal in Illinois, Gov. Pritzker says

KHQA 7

Stacey Skrysak

05/04/2022

‘"It's a scare tactic he's using this to try to rally his base because he doesn't want to talk about the issues that others care about the most which are cost of living, corruption, and crime," said Senator Steve McClure, R-Jacksonville.’

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-5-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-5-22

WCCU-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

 

Sen. Steve McClure

5-4-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (2 other sources)

Issue: Supreme Court/Abortion

Veterans Affairs

Pritzker administration didn’t respond to seriousness of vets home COVID outbreak

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

05/05/2022

‘State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, represents the area and said Pritzker’s lack of accountability and transparency is “astounding.”’

 

Lawmakers and candidates weigh in on veterans home audit

WSPY News

Ethan Kruger

05/07/2022

“Republican Morris State Senator Sue Rezin says the audit tells the story of a governor who fatally mismanaged the state's response, abdicated in his responsibility to protect veterans in the state, and then tried to hide it with an investigation that he arranged.”

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-8-22

American Military News (Special Interest group media)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans Home audit report

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

WSPY Radio (Plano)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans Home audit report

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

5-5-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (4 other sources)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

Ogle County Newspapers (2 other sources)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

WMAY Radio (Springfield) (10 other sources)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (2 other sources)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-5-22

Starved Rock Media (Regional radio station group)

Issue: Issue: LaSalle Vets Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: LaSalle Vets Home/Auditor General report

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy)

Issue: LaSalle Vets Home/Auditor General report

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans Home audit report and her related legislation

 

UPDATED: Auditor General Report Slams Response to Deadly COVID-19 Outbreak at LaSalle Veteran's Home

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

05/05/2022

‘Statement from Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris), who represents the Home: “The audit tells the story of a governor who fatally mismanaged the state’s response, abdicated his responsibilities to protect the veterans of this state, and tried to hide it with an investigation he arranged with a predetermined outcome, ensuring his office escaped all accountability. Governor Pritzker and his political appointees intentionally misled legislators during public hearings as we sought answers for the families who lost loved ones but nineteen months after the outbreak began, the truth came out. He must finally accept responsibility for failing to act on the information his office sat on since day one. The Senate must hold legislative hearings to demand answers from the Pritzker Administration.”’

 

‘Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia), earlier today: “JB Pritzker campaigned on Bruce Rauner’s fatal mismanagement that lead to deaths from Legionnaires Disease in Quincy’s Veterans’ Home. I’ll agree that Rauner’s administration failed those veterans, because when you’re governor, the buck stops with you.’

 

Audit: State health department failed to take LaSalle Veterans’ Home outbreak seriously

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

05/06/2022

“Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris), who represents the LaSalle home, said the audit shows Pritzker administration officials “intentionally misled” lawmakers.”

 

Sen. Crain Wilcox

5-4-22

AND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Veterans Assistance Commission legislation

MISC.

Sen. Jil Tracy

5-7-22

Quincy Herald-Whig

Issue: Solar panels at Oakley-Lindsay Center

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

5-6-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Grundy EDC and the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Dinner

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

5-4-22

Clinton Journal

Issue: State grant for AMVET Post #14

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-4-22

Alton Telegraph

Issue: Highway cameras

Budget

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-26-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-27-22

Mendota Reporter

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-1-22

WSIU-TV (Carbondale) (Public Television) “Illinois Lawmakers” (2 other sources)

Issue: 2022 Legislative Session – New state budget

Events

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-26-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg) (multiple newscasts) (2 other sources)

Issue: Guest at Paul Simon Public Policy Institute to discuss Higher-ed and riverport projects

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-28-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Post-session Town Hall

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

5-1-22

WIND Radio (Chicago) (1 other source)

Issue: Paul Simon Public Policy Institute/Comments about Democrat’s SAFE-T Act

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-30-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Paul Simon Public Policy Institute/Comments about Democrat’s “Justice Reform”

 

Sen. Brian Stewart

4-28-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Gateway Project/groundbreaking

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-28-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Downtown Mt. Sterling capital projects/IDOT

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-28-22

WCCU-TV (Springfield)

Issue: McClure-Hamilton Town Hall

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-30-22

Quincy Herald-Whig

Issue: Speaking to Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing faculty and students

Health

Bills allow pharmacists to administer preventive HIV meds, fentanyl test strips

Capitol News Illinois

Crusader Staff, GRACE KINNICUTT

04/25/2022

“Sen. Jason Barickman, a Bloomington Republican, was the only GOP lawmaker from either chamber to vote yes for the measure.”

 

“Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, said the language leaves “too many loopholes” for minors, whether emancipated or not, to go to different pharmacies and refill their medications several times.”

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-27-22

WICD-TV (Champaign) (1 other source)

Issue: Medicaid for non-citizens

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-25-22

KWMU Radio (St. Louis Public Radio) (1 other source)

Issue: Medicaid expansion for noncitizens

 

Illinois bill to provide Medicaid for more immigrants, senators says residents will pay

KHQA 7

David Pierce

04/27/2022

“Senator Dave Syverson, R-Rockford, says Medicaid for undocumented immigrants won't be funded by the federal government.”

 

Future nurses eager to make impact on health care

Herald-Whig

Mark Meyer

04/30/2022

“A bi-state panel of Sen. Jil Tracy, Rep. Randy Frese and Rep. Greg Sharpe spent the better half of an hour discussing health care issues and saluting 60 or so students in attendance for their career path and commitment to the medical profession.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-28-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Take back unwanted/unused prescription drugs

 

Sen. Sally Turner

4-29-22

Decatur Herald-Tribune (1 other source)

Issue: Pharmacists/Fentanyl testing supplies

Infrastructure

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-25-22

The Labor Tribune (Industry media)

Issue: I-57 construction

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-27-22

Illinois Business Journal (42 other sources)

Issue: Highway traffic cameras

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-28-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Highway cameras/crime/privacy

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-27-22

Illinois Times (2 other sources)

Issue: Highway cameras/crime/privacy

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-27-22

Illinois Policy Institute

Issue: Highway cameras/crime/privacy

 

EXPERTS: HIGHWAY CAMERA BILLS ON PRITZKER’S DESK RIPE FOR ABUSE

Policy Institute

Patrick Andriesen

04/27/2022

‘“Who makes the decisions on where the cameras are placed?” state Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, asked. “Are the cameras placed in areas that are more frequented by more minorities and does that lend to a discriminatory effect that we’re targeting certain populations?”’

 

Highway camera expansion covering 6,600 miles of road in 22 counties awaits Pritzker’s signature

Capitol News Illinois

JERRY NOWICKI

04/26/2022

‘“Although these tools can provide some public benefit, the risk is that they're susceptible to abuse and have a chilling effect on public life,” Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said in an interview.’

 

Highway camera expansion includes Sangamon County

Capitol News Illinois

Jerry Nowicki

04/28/2022

‘"Although these tools can provide some public benefit, the risk is that they're susceptible to abuse and have a chilling effect on public life," Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said in an interview.”

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

4-28-22

Reporter Wings (Media industry source) (4 other sources)

Issue: Public infrastructure

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-28-22

Illinois Issues

Issue: Highway cameras

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

5-1-22

Muddy River News (Quincy)

Issue: Highway cameras

Interviews

Jason Barickman: We need more independence in politics – Episode 32

WSIU Public Broadcasting

Apple Podcasts- John Shaw

04/27/2022

“Illinois State Senator Jason Barickman, a Republican from Bloomington, talks about his path from the county board to the state Senate, his work on education funding and redistricting reform, working across party lines in Springfield, and how nationwide political angst affects state government.”

 

Wake Up TriCounties State Senator Win Stoller

SoundCloud

Regional Media Podcast Network

04/27/2022

“State Senator Win Stoller was our guest on Wake Up Tri-Counties to offer his reaction to the recently signed Illinois budget.”

Prisoner Review Board

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-25-22

Reporter Wings (Media industry resource) (5 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-25-22

Reporter Wings (Media industry resource) (5 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-26-22

Governing Magazine

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-26-22

Governing Magazine

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-27-22

Illinois Times

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Public Safety

‘These are not casual decisions.’ Changing dynamics about crime and politics have wide-ranging influence on state board.

Chicago Tribune

Jeremy Gorner

04/26/2022

‘“Gov. Pritzker has been completely negligent on the Prisoner Review Board from day one. And he’s putting Illinois families in danger in two ways,” Republican state Sen. Jason Plummer of Edwardsville told the Tribune the day after Mears was rejected by the Senate. “One, by putting, in some cases, very extreme people on the Prisoner Review Board and on the second case, by not following his job and making sure that the board is fully functional.”’

 

“Moments before Mears fell short of the 30 Senate votes needed to be approved for a permanent spot on the board, Republican state Sen. Terri Bryant of Murphysboro raised concerns about his parole votes for Sims and King.”

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-27-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: Dwight Correctional Center

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-26-22

KTVI-TV (St. Louis) (1 other source)

Issue: DCFS problems

 

Illinois state’s attorneys predict consequences from the SAFE-T Act

The Center Square

Kevin Bessler

04/26/2022

“During a Paul Simon Public Policy Institute appearance, state Sen. Dale Fowler, R-Harrisburg, said some Democrats have realized they may have gone too far with some of the changes.”

Cannabis

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-20-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Testing positive for pot on the job

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-20-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: Testing positive for pot on the job

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-20-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Testing positive for pot on the job

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-21-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Positive pot test at work

Events

Students debate mock legislation at Senator Dale Fowler's Spring Student Advisory Council

WSIU Public Radio

Benjy Jeffords

04/20/2022

“Dozens of high school students reunited Wednesday for the spring session of Senator Dale Fowler’s annual Student Advisory Council.”

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-22-22

Dailey Republican (Marion)

Issue: Paul Simon Institute guest to discuss higher-ed and Riverport projects

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-21-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg) (multiple newscasts) (2 other sources)

Issue: Youth Advisory Council

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-21-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg)

Issue: Paul Simon Institute guest to discuss higher-ed and Riverport projects

 

State Sen. Dale Fowler to discuss Illinois higher education, Cairo river port

SIU Carbondale News

Staff

04/21/2022

“Illinois State Sen. Dale Fowler is the next guest in the virtual speaker series hosted by Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.”

 

State Sen Jason Plummer welcomes students to Springfield as part of his Youth Advisory Council event

Vandalia Radio

Todd Stapleton

04/22/2022

“State Senator Jason Plummer welcomed high school students from across the 54th District to the Capitol to hold a mock legislative hearing.  The event was part of the Senator’s annual Youth Advisory Council.”

 

Senator Stoller answers Geneseo High panelists about his first year as a legislator

Beth Welbers

Geneseo Republic

04/22/2022

“State Senator Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) got a rare opportunity to answer questions and give a few insights to a panel of Geneseo High School students Tuesday afternoon, April 19.  The six students were invited to the meeting based on their leadership skills and interest in a future career in government.”

 

Senator Plummer Welcomes Students to the Capitol to Tackle the Legislative Process

Effingham Radio

Staff

04/22/2022

“State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) welcomed high school students from across the 54th District to the Capitol to hold a mock legislative hearing.”

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-21-22

Metropolis Planet

Issue: Blood Drive at the Hub

Finances

Illinois Republicans disapprove of budget signed by governor

WSIL TV 3

Staff

04/19/2022

“Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) says it's irresponsible spending.”

 

“Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) called it a campaign stunt by the Governor.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-21-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-21-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-20-22

WAWV-TV (Terre Haute, IN)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-20-22

WSPY Radio (Plano/Aurora)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

WYZZ-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-21-22

Kankakee Daily Journal

Issue: Public pensions

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-24-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Two-week review for a state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-22-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (4 other sources)

Issue: Illinois Bonding upgrade

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-22-22

El Dia News Chicago

Issue: Tax dollars funding attorneys for immigration hearings

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-24-22

WICD-TV (Champaign) (1 other source)

Issue: Gasoline tax/sticker requirement

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-22-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: New state budget/federal tax dollars

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-21-22

WQRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-21-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-22-22

State Journal Register (29 other sources)

Issue: New state budget/late night debate/no review

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-21-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: New state budget/late night debate/no review

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-21-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-21-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: Two-week review for a new state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-22-22

State Journal Register (29 other sources)

Issue: New state budget/late night debate/no review

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-21-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget/late night debate/no review

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-20-22

Illinois Business Journal (2 other sources)

Issue: Tax relief in the new state budget

 

Gov. Pritzker signed the new Illinois budget on Tuesday

WSIU Public Radio

Brad Palmer

04/19/2022

“Republican State Senator Terri Bryant from Murphysboro criticized the budget, saying it sets the state up for a financial disaster down the road by increasing spending by nearly three billion dollars on one-time, unexpectedly high revenue.”

 

State lawmakers react to state budget

CI Proud

Liam Donahue

04/19/2022

‘On the other hand, Republican State Senator Win Stoller said he feels Illinois is on a “sugar high.”’

 

State Senator thinks Illinois budget misses the mark

WSPY News

Ethan Kruger

04/20/2022

“Morris Republican State Senator Sue Rezin says the $46 billion Illinois spending plan signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker misses out on a few priorities.”

 

'Election-year gimmicks': Political efforts to ease pain of gas prices under scrutiny

ABC 7

Diane Pathieu, Craig Wall and ABC7 Chicago Digital Team

04/20/2022

‘"And that is what's really unfortunate is the government really forcing private business to advertise on the Democrats behalf in this case," said State Senator Dan McConchie, Senate Republican Leader.’

 

Rezin Says Pritzker's Budget Relies On Money That Won't Be There in Future

WSPY News

Justin Ritz

04/22/2022

“Morris Republican State Senator Sue Rezin says the $46 billion Illinois spending plan, signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker, misses out on a few priorities.”

 

With Moody's upgrade for Illinois' finances, Republicans say structural problems persist

The Center Square, 1340 WJOL

Kevin Bessler

04/22/2022

“The Governor is grabbing ahold of anything within reach to try and trick the people of Illinois that he is creating a fiscally responsible government while ignoring the fact that this year’s budget was only attainable because Illinois received over $16 billion in federal bailout money,” said Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods. “The truth is, Pritzker continues to put Illinois on a path toward fiscal insolvency by increasing state spending and failing to address the systemic issues that are causing people to flee this state.”

 

“Earlier in the day, state Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, told the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University the state’s finances still need a lot of work and the budget is not what it may seem.”

 

Budget bills were filed after committee hearing scheduled to discuss them

JERRY NOWICKI

Capitol News Illinois

04/21/2022

‘“I don't know what we're supposed to gain from this hearing when we don't have anything in front of us,” Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, said at the hearing. “How do you possibly begin to ask questions about something that doesn't yet exist?”’

 

Community Forum: Barickman Says State Budget is a Missed Opportunity

WJEZ Classic Hits

Staff

04/22/2022

“State Senator Jason Barickman talks with Todd Wineburner about the state budget and his disappointment with it. The Community Forum on WJEZ is sponsored by K & S Ford in Fairbury.”

 

St. Senator wants two week introduction of bills before a vote

1430 WCMY

Steven Devine

02/24/2022

“Republican St. Sen. Win Stoller of Germantown Hills wants to reform the state budget process. He has introduced an amendment to the State’s Constitution that would require bills to be delivered in two weeks in advance of a vote.”

 

Illinois lawmakers respond to budget signing

Fox Illinois

Press Release

04/19/2022

‘Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) issued the following statement after Governor Pritzker signed an election-year state budget: “This budget is nothing more than a campaign tool for Pritzker and the Democratic Party. Providing one-time checks to people in the mail right before their names appear on the ballot and expire right after the Election is a disgrace. And then, to also force gas stations and grocery stores to post signs that tout their short-term ‘tax relief’ just shows how desperate they are to win over Illinoisians. Nobody will be fooled by their gamesmanship.”’

 

Tracy addresses budget concerns during Politics and Pancakes breakfast

DREW ZIMMERMAN

Herald-Whig

04/19/2022

“Sen. Jil Tracy voiced her concerns about Illinois $46.5 billion spending plan, which was signed into law Tuesday, during Quincy’s first Politics and Pancakes breakfast of the year.”

 

Fuel retailers approve suing over Illinois gas tax sticker requirement

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/19/2022

“While Republicans didn’t support the spending plan, they did support the tax cuts, though Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said Republicans wanted broader and more permanent, not temporary, cuts.”

 

Pritzker signs final first-term budget ahead of reelection push

Capitol News Illinois

JERRY NOWICKI

04/19/2022

‘“This budget is nothing more than a campaign tool for Pritzker and the Democratic Party,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, who voted for the tax relief plan, said in a statement. “Providing one-time checks to people in the mail right before their names appear on the ballot and expire right after the election is a disgrace.”’

 

Largest spending plan in Illinois history now law as critics see no reforms

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/19/2022

“Republican state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro said the state’s finances are being floated by one-time federal tax funds that aren’t expected in future years.”

 

Research shows elimination of the grocery tax doesn’t help low-income Illinoisans

The Center Square

Kevin Bessler

04/18/2022

‘“What is most unfortunate about the Democrats’ budget plan is we have an opportunity right now to provide permanent tax relief for the people of Illinois, yet instead, the Democrats are choosing to provide one-time checks and other temporary relief just before the election which expires right after the election,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said in a statement.’

 

Pritzker touts state’s latest Wall Street bond rating upgrade: ‘Step by step we are putting Illinois on firm fiscal footing’

Chicago Sun-Times

Tina Sfondeles

04/21/2022

“Despite the latest upgrade, Pritzker’s foes, including Illinois Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said the Democratic governor is ignoring the fact that this year’s budget included $16 billion in federal dollars.”

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-19-22

Daily Herald (23 other sources)

Issue: New state budget/temporary tax cuts

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-20-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-20-22

WHBF-TV (Quad Cities) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-20-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget/taxes

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-19-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: New state budget/taxes

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-21-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO) (3 other sources)

Issue: Gasoline tax

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-20-22

Illinois Business Journal (2 other sources)

Issue: Tax relief in the new state budget

 

Democrats declare ‘Illinois is back’ as Pritzker signs budget and tax relief plan into law

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/20/2022

‘“This budget is nothing more than a campaign tool for Pritzker and the Democratic Party,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods), who voted against the budget but for the tax relief bill, said in a statement. “Providing one-time checks to people in the mail right before their names appear on the ballot...is a disgrace,” McConchie wrote. “And then, to also force gas stations and grocery stores to post signs that tout their short-term ‘tax relief’ just shows how desperate they are to win over Illinoisians.”’

 

Pritzker, Dem leaders boast over state’s 3rd Moody’s credit upgrade in less than a year

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/22/2022

‘“The truth is, Pritzker continues to put Illinois on a path toward fiscal insolvency by increasing state spending and failing to address the systemic issues that are causing people to flee this state,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) said in a statement. “Should he remain in office next year, he is going to be confronted with a major hangover after the federal money dries up and state spending is at a record high.”’

 

Backlash over gas tax sticker requirement

Fox Illinois WICS/WRSP

Noelle Forde

04/24/2022

‘"Everyone knows that one of the biggest issues is inflation. One of those areas that hits the hardest is at the gas pump. There's no question it's an election gimmick," said Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield.’

Health

Illinois pharmacies could soon dispense HIV prevention medications

KWQC 6, 23 WIFR

Mike Miletich

04/18/2022

“Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) and Rep. Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) were the only Republicans in either chamber to support the proposal.”

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-19-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO) (5 other sources)

Issue: Pharmacists dispensing HIV meds/Fentanyl tests

 

Expansion of Medicaid for noncitizens sent to governor

Capitol News Illinois

PETER HANCOCK

04/22/2022

‘“We had a bipartisan group for the last three months, getting up at 7 o'clock in the morning for these meetings with the agreement that all Medicaid expansions and increases were going to be working through this group,” Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Rockford, said during floor debate in the Senate. “And then you turn around a couple hours after this agreement and you change the bill.”’

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-25-22

State Journal-Register (Springfield) (26 other sources)

Issue: Expanding Medicaid for noncitizens

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-22-22

Bloomington Pantagraph (1 other source)

Issue: Expanding Medicaid for noncitizens

Interviews

State Senator Chapin Rose 4-21-22

The News-Gazette

Staff

04/21/2022

“Dave Gentry and CW Greer talk to State Senator Chapin Rose about the passing of Jim Turpin, the recent budget that Governor Pritzker signed, bills not advancing in the Illinois House and Senate, the gun violence effecting the state, and more.”

Public safety

Organized retail crime bill helps law enforcement address ‘evolving criminal,’ Karr says

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/18/2022

“Karr and Attorney General Kwame Raoul introduced the plan at a February news conference, triggering months of negotiations with lawmakers and stakeholders to find a solution that works best for everyone and addresses the problem. The bill was introduced by Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) and Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) in the final weeks of session, but a final version was not agreed to until the final day of session.”

 

“Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) said the bill will do little to deter people from committing the crime because Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx typically does not press charges on thefts below $1,000 in value.”

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-24-22

Belleville News-Democrat (1 other source)

Issue: DCFS child protection/family problems

MISC.

Bill creating task force to evaluate using tax funds for immigration lawyers cued up for Pritzker

The Center Square, KPVI 6

Andrew Hensel

04/20/2022

“State Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, was against the bill for a number of reasons.”

 

Bill would require schools to offer vegan, vegetarian options

Forest Park Review

“Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said schools already have the authority to offer plant-based food options because there is nothing in state law prohibiting it.”

 

“Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, pointed out that earlier in the day, the Senate Education Committee held a hearing on Senate Bill 4147 that would require schools to offer halal food options. That’s food deemed permissible under Islamic law.”

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-19-22

Illinois Ag Connection (industry magazine) (3 other sources)

Issue: Illinois’ new $30 million tourism campaign

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-25-22

AdvisorNews (Industry media source) (3 other sources)

Issue: Illinois’ credit upgrade

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-22-22

St. Louis Post Dispatch

Issue: Illinois’ credit upgrade

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-22-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (2 other sources)

Issue: Illinois’ credit upgrade

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-24-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris) (2 other sources)

Issue: Parking on roads near Starved Rock State Park

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-23-22

Bloomington Pantagraph

Issue: ISU Engineering School

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-22-22

Geneseo Republican

Issue: Reviewing his first year in the state senate

 

Budget

The 2023 budget forces grocers to display Gov. J.B Pritzker’s temporary suspension of the 1% grocery tax. Illinois is one of the few states to tax groceries.

Illinois Policy

Dylan Sharkey

04/12/2022

‘“A 1% abatement in just the cost of food is little appeasement to a working mom trying to feed her family when inflation is at 8%,” said state Sen. Jill Tracy, R-Quincy.’

 

McClure Unhappy With State Budget Process

WLDS/WEAI

Benjamin Cox

04/11/2022

“State Senator Steve McClure is unhappy with the state’s budgeting process.”

 

Crisis Center Foundation to Benefit as New State Budget Increases Funding

WLDS/WEAI

Jeremy Coumbes

04/15/2022

“In our area, I would like to say a special thank you to Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer and Senator Steve McClure for meeting with me and texting, emailing, talking on the phone for the last several months, and for supporting this increase to services.”

 

Barickman: State budget deficit can kicked down the road

WGLT

Charlie Schlenker

04/15/2022

“State Sen. Jason Barickman said early in the spring legislative session he expected very little productivity coming out of it. And now Barickman said his expectations have been fulfilled.”

 

General Assembly sends Pritzker budget buoyed by 1st surplus in years, loaded with temporary tax relief with ahead of election

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/11/2022

‘“Another year, another enormous budget dropped on us at the last minute full of promises and pork spending and who knows what else,” Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia), Republican candidate for governor, said. “I have a question to ask the body. Is there anyone here that actually read every page of this budget?”’

 

Greater transparency needed in state budgeting process

Shaw Media

Scott Reeder

04/16/2022

‘“They didn’t talk to Republicans during the budgeting process at all, and they don’t need to,” state Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, said. “Why would they? This is kind of the result you get: a closed-door budget to make sure everybody in their caucus is happy.”’

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-11-22

Hyde Park Herald (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-11-22

WMIX Radio (Mt. Vernon) (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-11-22

Illinois Issues (Springfield)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-11-22

WXEF Radio (Effingham)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-1222

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-11-22

WSCJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-11-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-12-22

Alton Telegraph

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-14-22

Metropolis Planet (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-13-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-14-22

Metropolis Planet (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-13-22

Illinois Times (Springfield) (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-13-22

Monroe County Republic-Times

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-15-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: New state budget/domestic violence shelters

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-14-22

Kankakee Daily Journal

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-14-22

Quincy Herald-Whig

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-17-22

WQAD-TV (Quad Cities)

Issue: New state budget

Prisoner Review Board

Statement From Senator Plummer On End Of Legislative Session, PRB Appointments

Effingham Radio

Staff

04/11/2022

‘State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) released the following statement after the Illinois Senate adjourned in the early morning hours of April 9th: “Families are across this state are struggling to pay their bills while inflation and taxes are out of control. I supported numerous measures to freeze the gas tax, permanently, increase property tax credits, permanently, and to remove the sales tax on groceries and prescriptions, again, permanently. But after years of fee increases and tax hikes, the only thing the super majority Democrats would allow to move forward were shameless election year gimmicks that expire immediately after the coming election.”’

 

Prisoner Review Board gains two members

Fox 2 Now

Danny Connolly, Cole Henke

04/12/2022

“Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) criticized the governor for keeping temporary board members for unconstitutional lengths.”

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-11-22

Chicago Crusader

Issue: PRB appointments

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-12-22

WWVR Radio (Paris) (11 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-12-22

WXEF Radio (Effingham)

Issue: PRB appointees

Public Safety

Illinois State Legislature Looks to Target Crime Through Series of Recently Passed Bills

WTTW

Amanda Vinicky

04/12/2022

“State Sen. Neil Anderson (R-Moline) said the measure wrongly will penalize himself and other legal firearm owners the same as it will criminals who intentionally scratch a serial number from a gun to prevent it from being traced.”

 

“But state Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) said in terms of punishing those who actually rob stories, the measure has no real teeth.”

 

New legislation in Illinois would recognize emergency dispatchers as first responders

KWQC 6

KWQC Staff

04/13/2022

“Illinois State Senator Neil Anderson and Representative Dan Swanson hosted a press conference Tuesday with an update on a bill that would recognize emergency dispatchers as first responders.”

 

Illinois bill passed to designate emergency dispatchers as first responders

The Quad City Times

Jonathan Turner

04/13/2022

“State Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia) and Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) were joined Wednesday by QComm911 Deputy Director Scott Ryckeghem to announce the recent passage of Senate Bill 3127 in both the Senate and House late last week.”

 

Union-backed construction wage theft measure will head to Illinois Gov. Pritzker

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS, Belville News-Democrat

JERRY NOWICKI

04/14/2022

“Sen. Jason Plummer, a Republican from Edwardsville, was among those calling for the measures not included in either of the final bills.”

 

Legislation classifying Illinois dispatchers as first responders clears legislature

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

04/14/2022

“Senate Bill 3127 was filed by state Sen. Neil Anderson and provides that emergency dispatchers are now COVID-19 first responders.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-13-22

Champaign News Gazette

Issue: Protecting family nursing home visits

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-12-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Protecting family nursing home visits

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-12-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Reforming Democrat crime reform

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-12-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County) (23 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-12-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-13-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Responding to Speaker Welch’s claim Republicans offer no solutions to combat crime

 

Sen. John Curran

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, Mo) (4 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft crackdown

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-13-22

OurQuadCities.com

Issue: Dispatchers recognized as First Responders

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-13-22

KWQC-TV (Quad Cities)

Issue: Dispatchers recognized as First Responders

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-14-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, Mo.) (3 other sources)

Issue: Dispatchers recognized as First Responders

 

Sen. Steve McClure

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, Mo) (4 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft crackdown

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-13-22

Ogle County Newspapers (2 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft crackdown

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-13-22

WLS Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Dispatchers recognized as First Responders

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-15-22

Illinois Business Journal (16 other sources)

Issue: Pharmacists dispensing HIV meds/Fentanyl tests

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-14-22

Hometownregister.com (west-central Illinois regional newspaper group) (19 other sources)

Issue: Pharmacists dispensing HIV meds/Fentanyl tests

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-15-22

Illinois Business Journal (16 other sources)

Issue: Pharmacists dispensing HIV meds/Fentanyl tests

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-14-22

WIFR-Tv (Rockford)

Issue: Dispatchers as first responders

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-17-22

Lake and McHenry County Scanner (1 other source)

Issue: Dispatchers as first responders

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-15-22

FireRescue 1 (Professional journal) (1 other source)

Issue: Dispatchers as first responders

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-16-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Judicial campaign finance

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-15-22

Hyde Park Herald

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-15-22

Effingham Daily News

Issue: Protecting nursing home family access

2022 Spring Session

Rose Statement on End of Session

Effingham Radio

Staff

04/13/2022

‘State Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) released the following statement after the Illinois Senate adjourned in the early morning hours of April 9th: “The Democrats who control Springfield emptied out their bag of election year tricks- let’s start with tax breaks that expire, conveniently for them, after the election. But it’s what they didn’t do that is the real story. They aren’t providing permanent tax relief by eliminating the tax on food and drugs. They aren’t doubling the tax credit for property taxes. They aren’t even suspending the sales tax on gasoline to help working Illinoisians – all of which we proposed. Well, you’ve come to expect this from the tax-us-into-oblivion crowd that makes up JB Pritzker’s Democrat party.”’

 

Session Recap: Bills allow pharmacists to administer preventive HIV meds, fentanyl test strips

Capitol News Illinois

GRACE KINNICUTT

03/14/2022

“Sen. Jason Barickman, a Bloomington Republican, was the only GOP lawmaker from either chamber to vote yes for the measure.”

 

“Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, said the language leaves “too many loopholes” for minors, whether emancipated or not, to go to different pharmacies and refill their medications several times.”

 

Local lawmakers feel more should have been addressed during session

Herald-Whig

DREW ZIMMERMAN Herald-Whig Staff Writer

04/14/2022

“Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, said the budget is balanced on a lot of federal money received as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. And though some strides were made on covering the state’s existing debt, more money should’ve been allocated to pay down Illinois’ unemployment insurance fund.”

 

WGLT's The Leadoff - Friday 4/15/22

WGLT 89.1 FM

Staff

04/15/2022

“WGLT's the leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 15. State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) tells Charlie Schlenker he doesn't feel the legislature got as much done as it could have during the spring session. Plus, representatives from the United Way of McLean County Housing Coalition tell Eric Stock there's still more work to do, despite having already distributed more than $5 million in COVID housing relief.”

 

With spotlight on crime, lawmakers close session by sending bipartisan public safety bills to the governor

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/11/2022

‘The bill’s former chief co-sponsor Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) said the narrowed bill is “only a small step forward.”’  

 

‘Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) said the bill will do little to deter people from committing the crime because Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx typically does not press charges on thefts below $1,000 in value.’

 

Judicial campaign finance overhaul, parole board appointments among flurry of measures passed in waning hours of session

The Daily Line

Alex Nitkin

04/11/2022

‘Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) pounced on Harmon’s presentation of a bill (HB350) Harmon described as “an implementation bill” following up on Democrats’ January vote to redraw the state’s subcircuits. Harmon said the follow-up bill was “correcting some drafting errors as well as assuring we protect the allocation of associate judges across counties.”’

 

Lawmakers set to send Pritzker ‘ghost gun’ registry bill

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/11/2022

“State Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, opposed the measure.”

 

Illinois lawmakers pass a bill they say will help prevent wage theft

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

04/11/2022

“Some lawmakers are concerned the legislation would add costs and complications to the contracting process. State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said the bill would drive up costs for Illinois.”

 

'Very disappointing': Effort stalls to remove Illinois elected officials charged with crimes

Rockford Register Star

Chris Green

04/12/2022

“State Sen. Dave Syverson blasted House Democrats Sunday for "killing" a proposed bipartisan bill that would temporarily remove local elected officials from office when they are charged with crimes.”

 

Session Recap: Illinois lawmakers pass bill to combat organized retail theft

Capitol News Illinois

GRACE KINNICUTT

04/12/2022

“Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, noted concerns during a committee hearing that removing language pertaining to the 1970 organized crime-related Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO, would weaken the bill.”

 

Editorial: No one should have to die alone

Chicago Tribune

The Editorial Board

04/07/2022

“So we hail the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 1405 on Wednesday, as sponsored in the Illinois House by state Rep. Chris Bos, R-Lake Zurich, and the Senate by Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, ensuring that what happened throughout Illinois (and beyond) in the spring of 2020 (and beyond) does not happen here again.”

 

Editorial | Legislature repeats decades of pension sins

The News-Gazette

The Editorial Board

04/13/2022

“Republican members of the Legislature rightly criticized the tax cuts as “election-year gimmicks.” And then they almost unanimously voted for them anyway. (Republican state Sen. Craig Wilcox of McHenry was the only lawmaker with the fortitude to vote “no.”)”

 

Illinois ‘kicking the can’ on unemployment debt amid concerns of possible recession

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/12/2022

“State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said it’s unacceptable that the debt lingers, especially since the state received $16 billion from federal taxpayers over the past two years.”

 

“State Sen. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, said with record levels of inflation, it’s likely there will be a “painful recession” that Illinois will struggle with, especially with the unemployment fund in the red.”

 

Unemployment insurance trust fund negotiations stalled, labor and business groups say

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/12/2022

‘“We’re facing the possibility of trying to borrow our way out of this problem with additional bonding debt,” Sen. Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) said during a debate in the Senate last month.’

 

Session Recap: Union-backed wage theft measure will head to Pritzker

Capitol News Illinois

JERRY NOWICKI

04/14/2022

“Sen. Jason Plummer, a Republican from Edwardsville, was among those calling for the measures that were not included in either of the final bills.”

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-12-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: Legislative session report

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-13-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: 2022 Spring Session @ Paul Simon Institute

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-14-22

Champaign News-Gazette (24 other sources)

Issue: Wage theft legislation

MISC.

Coal City School District Reacts To Passing of New State Law

WSPY News

Staff

04/11/2022

“State Senator Sue Rezin and others did not support the bill.”

 

GEDC Hosts Annual Legislative Breakfast

WCSJ News

Justin Ritz

04/13/2022

“State Senators Patrick Joyce and Sue Rezin along with State Representatives Jackie Haas & David Welter were at the event answering questions about state and federal government issues.”

 

Landlords eye Section 8 mandate in bill

The Center Square, The Telegraph

Kevin Bessler

04/11/2022

“State Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said the bill will harm the state.”

 

Chapin Rose sets traveling office hours

Piatt County Journal-Republican

Chapin Rose

04/13/2022

“State Senator Chapin Rose’s (R-Mahomet) office will be holding local traveling office hours in multiple Piatt County locations on Thursday, April 21.”

 

BIPARTISAN PUSH TO MAKE LONGMEADOW BRIDGE TOLL-FREE GETS FUNDING ALLOCATION IN STATE’S FY23 BUDGET

Kane County Connects

Staff

04/11/2022

“According to a news release from state Sen. Donald DeWitte (R-St. Charles), Kane County’s Department of Transportation expects the project to be completed in 2023.”

 

State Senator Stoller, Princeton Mayor Quiram, Oversee Dedication of New Sgt Lincoln Hollinsaid Bridge

Illinois News Now

Sean Kernan

04/12/2022

“On Tuesday morning, State Senator Win Stoller and Princeton Mayor Joel Quiram helped to pay tribute to Sgt. Lincoln ‘Linc’ Hollinsaid, a Bureau County native who was killed while on Duty in Iraq in 2003. In a ceremony including Sgt Hollinsaid’s parents, the Main Street I-80 Flags of Freedom Bridge, home of four of the largest American flags in the State of Illinois, was officially christened for Sgt Hollinsaid.”

 

Senator Fowler meets with local leaders to address truck driver shortage

WSIL TV 3

Madeline Parker

04/13/2022

“Senator Dale Fowler is working on how to address the truck driver shortage.”

 

This Is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Taylorville Daily News

Leroy M Kleimola

04/15/2022

“State Senator Neil Anderson says that too many dispatchers don’t get credit for the work they do.”

 

IL Route 125 to Receive Repairs After Local Rancor Over Potholes, Damaged Vehicles

WLDS/WEAI

Benjamin Cox

04/15/2022

“State Senator Jil Tracy commented on her Facebook Page last Friday that after hearing from local residents and businesses and working with IDOT officials, she was pleased to announce that the roadwork will begin.”

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-11-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Pictures taken at food pantry in Union County

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-12-22

Associated Press (26 other sources)

Issue: Protecting family nursing home visits

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-11-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: School days off for civic events

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-12-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Forcing rental property owners to participate in Section 8 housing program

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-11-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: Ban on DIY kit guns

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-11-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: Ban on DIY kit guns

 

Sen. Brian Stewart

4-12-22

The Journal-Standard (Freeport)

Issue: Blood drive

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-12-22

WXEF Radio (Effingham)

Issue: I-72 named in honor of Officer Chris Oberheim

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

4-12-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: Local bridge project

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-12-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Unserialized/kit gun ban

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-12-22

Decatur Herald & Review

Issue: Visit to ADM

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-12-22

OurQuadCities.com

Issue: I-80 bridge named in memory of Sgt. Lincoln Hollinsaid

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-12-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: I-80 bridge named in memory of Sgt. Lincoln Hollinsaid

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-14-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: I-72 named after Officer Oberheim

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-13-22

Quincy Herald-Whig

Issue: Park district grant

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-13-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Issue: Unserialized guns/kit guns

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-13-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Speech before the Grundy Economic Development Council

 

Sen. John Curran

4-13-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: React to Danny Solis bribery

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-14-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Addressing the shortage of truck drivers

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-16-22

Muddy River News (Quincy)

Issue: Grocery tax

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-15-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Emergency road word near Beardstown

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-16-22

Champaign News-Gazette

Issue: (Picture/caption) - Honoring Firefighter Ross Booker of the St. Joseph-Stanton Fire Protection District with a Senate proclamation

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-14-22

Muddy River News (Quincy)

Issue: Riverfront park improvements

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-14-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg)

Issue: Truck driver shortage

Budget/Taxes

Sen. Brian Stewart

4-9-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-10-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (36 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WICD-TV (Champaign) (1 other source)

Issue: Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (3 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WJBD Radio (Salem)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-4-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County) (1 other source)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-6-22

WTVO-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Capping the sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-9-22

WAND-TV (Decatur) (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-8-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy) (2 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-8-22

Edwardsville (Intellingencer) (2 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-10-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (31 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy) (2 other sources)

Issue: Budget/Tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

Muddy River News (Quincy)(2 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

WMAY Radio (Springfield) (3 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-9-22

WBEZ Radio (Chicago)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-8-22

State Journal Register

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-8-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (2 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-8-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-8-22

WSPY Radio (Plano/Aurora)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-9-22

WBEZ Radio (Chicago)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-11-22

Rockford Register Star

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

4-9-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (3 other sources)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-9-22

WPRW Radio (Bloomington)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-9-22

WICD-TV (Champaign) (1 other source)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-9-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: New State budget

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-9-22

Starvedrock media (Regional radio station group)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-9-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-9-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: New state budget

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-8-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: New state budget

 

Democrats agree on election-year state budget with $1.8 billion in largely temporary tax relief

Chicago Tribune

DAN PETRELLA, CLARE SPAULDING and JEREMY GORNER

04/07/2022

‘Senate Republican leader Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods issued a statement condemning increased government spending as Democratic leadership telling Illinoisans “they think they know how to better spend your money.”’

 

‘“We can even do the earned income tax credit increase that the governor proposed on a permanent basis,” said Republican Sen. Chapin Rose of Mahomet, “not election-year gimmicks, not designed to go away after the election is over, but on a permanent basis for the people of Illinois.”’

 

“GOP Sen. Jason Barickman of Bloomington said that while he supports this proposal, carjacking victims can likely already solve those issues through municipalities. He also said the majority party hasn’t done an effective enough job in passing legislation to hold criminals accountable.”

 

Senate Republic leader reacts to Democrats budget agreement

KHQA 7

KHQA Staff

04/07/2022

“Following Pritzker's news conference announcing the budget deal, Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie issued a statement that said the budget doesn't provide Illinoisans with permanent tax relief while at the same time increases government spending.”

 

Grundy Co. Lawmakers Share Reaction To Passing of State Budget

WSPY News

Staff

04/09/2022

“The budget also doubles the property tax rebate up to $300 dollars and sends a one-time payment of at least $50 to most individuals and $100 per kid. State Senator Sue Rezin voted in favor of the tax relief portion of the plan, despite calling for permanent tax relief, but voted against the state spending plan.”

 

Senators Barickman and Rose Talk About The State Budget on Saturday Morning

Cities 92.9

Tom Davis

04/09/2022

‘State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) released the following statement after the Illinois Senate adjourned in the early morning hours of April 9th: “There was a great opportunity this year to provide substantial and permanent tax relief to Illinois families while still passing a balanced, responsible budget. Unfortunately, what we ended up with was Democrats trying to buy votes with tax gimmicks that end as soon as the election is over. Worse yet, with crime out of control across the state, we were able to secure some much-needed help for police, but nothing that actually holds criminals accountable.”’

 

“Sen. Rose debate remarks about the $46 billion state budget plan.”

 

Illinois lawmakers approve crime package, $46.5 billion budget in marathon final day of session

Chicago Tribune

JEREMY GORNER, DAN PETRELLA and CLARE SPAULDING

04/09/2022

“Loathe to vote against tax breaks before facing voters later this year, however, Republicans nearly all voted in favor the proposal. Only GOP state Sen. Craig Wilcox of McHenry voted in opposition.”

 

Illinois Republicans criticize FY 2023 budget

News Channel

Marcella Baietto

04/09/2022

“State Senator Steve McClure, R-Springfield, released this statement: This was a unique legislative session, from beginning to end. I’m proud that I was able to advance some good legislation, including a bill to help frontline DCFS workers to protect themselves. We were able to get some additional funding for our struggling police departments, and some minor tax relief for the people of Illinois. It was extremely disappointing, however, that the super majority party refused to advance any kind of permanent tax relief, opting instead for short-term gimmicks that expire after the next election. Worse yet, they blocked any and all legislation that would actually hold violent criminals accountable and keep them behind bars.”

 

“State Senator Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, also provided his perspective on the budget plan: The Democrats who control Springfield emptied out their bag of election year tricks- let’s start with tax breaks that expire, conveniently for them, after the election. But it’s what they didn’t do that is the real story. They aren’t providing permanent tax relief by eliminating the tax on food and drugs. They aren’t doubling the tax credit for property taxes. They aren’t even suspending the sales tax on gasoline to help working Illinoisans – all of which we proposed. Well, you’ve come to expect this from the tax-us-into-oblivion crowd that makes up JB Pritzker’s Democrat party.”

 

Area Lawmakers Mixed Over Budget, Tax Relief

Vermilion County First

Bill Pickett

04/09/2022

“Senator Jason Barickman, Republican of Bloomington, says lawmakers missed an opportunity to provide taxpayers some permanent relief….”

 

“Senator Chapin Rose says he is also disappointed a tax relief plan that was approved does not offer permanent relief….”

 

Pritzker, Democratic leaders agree to $1.8B temporary tax relief plan and budget

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/08/2022

‘“If the Democrats don’t want to do permanent tax relief to the tune of $2.2 billion on a plan that still provides a surplus, then what are they doing with that extra money? They’re spending it,” Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) said.’

 

Democrats finalize state budget, focus on crime bills

Andrew Adams

State Journal-Register

04/07/2022

‘“What is most unfortunate about the Democrats’ budget plan is we have an opportunity right now to provide permanent tax relief for the people of Illinois," said Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods. "Yet instead, the Democrats are choosing to provide one-time checks and other temporary relief just before the election which expires right after the election. Additionally, we are significantly increasing government spending."’

 

Tax cuts expected in Illinois budget, but likely temporary despite calls for permanent relief

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/07/2022

“State Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, said that’s doable and will still maintain the governor’s proposed spending with a surplus.”

Lawmakers wrap up session with early-morning passage of $46.5 billion budget

Capitol News Illinois

JERRY NOWICKI & PETER HANCOCK

04/09/2022

‘“Everybody in this room knows it's damn near impossible to know what's actually happening here without a bill being filed,” Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, said at the hearing that concluded after 10 p.m. “How do you possibly begin to ask questions about something that doesn't yet exist?”’

 

‘“Let’s call this budget what it really is—an attempt to buy your vote,” Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie, of Hawthorn Woods, said in a statement.’

 

Pay raises for lawmakers, temporary tax cuts part of largest spending plan in Illinois history

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

04/09/2022

“State Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, said the reality is the Democrats’ plan practically spends all the state is bringing in and at record levels.”

 

In All Night End of Session, Tensions Flare, Democrats Pass Budget

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

04/09/2022

‘"There was a deliberate choice made not to give people their money back, but to take it and spend it," said Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet). He called the plan "a missed opportunity."’

 

‘“Let’s call this budget what it really is—an attempt to buy your vote,” said Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) in a statement. “For months, Republicans have proposed permanent tax relief. Instead, Democrats chose a permanent expansion to spending handing out one-time checks right before the election and then abandoning taxpayers right after the election. While some tax relief is better than none-at-all, Illinoisans deserve real relief instead of bigger government.”’

 

A tale of two state budgets

1470 & 100.3 WMBD

Will Stevenson

04/07/2022

“State Senator Chapin Rose of Champaign County says the GOP proposal makes permanent some of the tax relief ideas Pritzker is proposing as temporary.”

 

Budget Reaction

93.9 WTAX

Staff

04/08/2022

“What we’re seeing at the price pump, a lot of that is baked into the sales tax that’s on top,” said Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) “What we’ve proposed doing is capping that at pre-pandemic levels in order to help provide relief.”

 

Democrats Reach Budget Deal

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

04/08/2022

“Republicans were critical of the Democratic plan. Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) said the plan relies too much on short term fixes instead of long term tax relief.”

 

Senate Democrats propose tax relief plan including $100 checks for nearly all taxpayers

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/04/2022

‘Across the aisle, Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) called the plan an election year “gimmick.”’

Education

Governor signs teacher paid leave act

WCSJ News 103.1

Staff

04/05/2022

“Republican Morris State Senator Sue Rezin says the bill is really a way for the governor to impose a vaccine mandate.”

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-6-22

WDML Radio (Mt. Vernon) (8 other sources)

Issue: Paid leave only for vaccinated teachers

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-4-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: Essay contest to honor teachers

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-6-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris) (1 other source)

Issue: Paid leave only for vaccinated teachers

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-6-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Paid leave only for vaccinated teachers

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-6-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (2 other sources)

Issue: Paid leave for Covid vaxxed teachers

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-6-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (2 other sources)

Issue: Paid leave for Covid vaxxed teachers

Healthcare

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-4-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Peru and Spring Valley hospitals share license

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-4-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Peru and Spring Valley hospitals share license

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-7-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO) (3 other sourcs)

Issue: Nursing home funding reform/Medicaid

 

Nursing home reform, two years in the making, passes IL Senate

WGEM

Lizzie Seils

04/06/2022

“Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) said she was made aware of about nine homes still at risk of being a “loser” under new legislation. Gillespie said she is not aware of those homes but will check with her staff.”

Prisoner Review Board

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-4-22

Quincy Herald-Whig

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-4-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-5-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-10-22

Alton Telegraph (31 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointments

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-9-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: PRB appointments

 

Pritzker taps former Rauner chief of staff, former judge for PRB

Capitol News Illinois, Voice of Alexandria

BETH HUNDSDORFER

04/09/2022

“One of Pritzker’s most vocal critics on the PRB issue, Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said in a statement released on Friday that the PRB is a critical to Illinois’ public safety and he’s glad to see the vacancies addressed.”

 

Gov. Pritzker taps two lawyers for Prisoner Review Board — one a former aide to past nemesis Bruce Rauner

Chicago Sun-Times

Tina Sfondeles

04/08/2022

‘Urging a no vote on the Senate floor nearly two weeks ago, state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, said Wilson’s votes to release “cop-killers” send a “troubling message to the family members of these officers that their sacrifice ... is somehow insignificant.”’

 

‘Referring to the bipartisan rejection of Wilson, state Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, issued a statement Friday crediting Pritzker with taking steps to fill the vacancies after “allowing his controversial appointees to fulfill his agenda until even Democrats had enough of his gamesmanship.’

Public Safety

Bill allowing DCFS employees to carry pepper spray heads to governor

KHQA 7

KHQA Staff

04/06/2022

“The legislation was advanced by State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), State Representative Sandy Hamilton (R-Springfield), and State Representative Tony McCombie (R-Savanna).”

 

Illinois lawmakers pass bill removing potential penalties for carjacking victims

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

04/08/2022

“Illinois has seen a rise in carjackings in the city of Chicago and other areas of the state the past couple of years. State Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said not enough has been done to help the victims of these crimes.”

 

Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s battles over crime now being seen on state boards

Chicago Tribune

RAY LONG and JEREMY GORNER

04/07/2022

‘“Democrats as a whole are afraid of the crime issue,” said state Sen. Jason Plummer, an Edwardsville Republican who serves as minority spokesman on the Executive Appointments Committee.’

 

Sen. Darren Bailey

4-4-22

WBEZ Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Death penalty for cop killers

 

Sen. John Curran

4-4-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Combating retail theft

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-5-22

Champaign News Gazette

Issue: Local gun violence

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-5-22

WDML Radio (Mt. Vernon)

Issue: Newly-introduced Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-5-22

Champaign News Gazette

Issue: Local gun violence

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-5-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (3 other sources)

Issue: Crime bill/witness protection

 

Sen. John Curran

4-5-22

Chicago Tribune (2 other sources)

Issue: Newly-introduced Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

4-5-22

WGN-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Newly-introduced Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-5-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (3 other sources)

Issue: Crime bill/witness protection

 

Sen. John Curran

4-6-22

WGN-TV (Chicago) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Newly-introduced Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-7-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: Democrat anti-crime proposals

 

Sen. John Curran

4-6-22

WGN-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Democrat carjacking proposal

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-6-22

Streeterville News (7 other sources)

Issue: Democrat anti-crime proposals

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-6-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Allowing DCFS employees to carry pepper spray

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-6-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Allowing DCFS employees to carry pepper spray

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

4-7-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Democrat anti-crime proposals

 

Sen. John Curran

4-6-22

WGN-TV (Chicago) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Democrat carjacking proposal

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-7-22

WICS-TV (Springfield) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Allowing DCFS employees to carry pepper spray

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-8-22

Ogle County Newspapers (15 other sources)

Issue: Child Abuse Prevention Month/Roar for AJ

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-10-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford)

Issue: County government crime bill

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-9-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

4-9-22

Peoria Journal Star (4 other sources)

Issue: Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

4-9-22

Peoria Journal Star (5 other sources)

Issue: Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-9-22

Peoria Journal Star (28 other sources)

Issue: Democrat crime legislation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-10-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: Democrat crime legislation

 

Crime was a big topic for lawmakers this spring. What did they accomplish in their last week?

State Journal-Register

Andrew Adams

04/09/2022

‘"This legislation is doing absolutely nothing," said Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield. "It's just the same old stuff with some different language in the statutes," he later added.’

 

“The bill, HB 4736, passed in the Senate on Thursday on a nearly party-line 40-17 vote, with Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy voting for the measure. It passed with bipartisan support in the House on Friday in a 109-2 vote.”

 

“Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, is an outspoken advocate for firearms owners. On Wednesday, he was a featured speaker at an event hosted by the Illinois State Rifle Association.”

 

‘I was terrified:’ Lightford, Senate Democrats present legislation to combat carjackings

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

04/06/2022

“The recent proposals introduced do very little to move the needle on this very serious issue,” Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) said in a statement. “They simply just add bureaucracy and taxpayer dollars to this epidemic and do nothing to actually hold offenders accountable for their actions. If we really want to get serious on crime, we need to start having real conversations about ways to deter this kind of activity.”

MISC.

Witness protection program bill moves out of committee on partisan vote

WEEK 25, WGEM

Lizzie Seils

04/05/2022

“Republicans took issue with what they considered unequal representation in the task force since minority leaders could only appoint one person each to the task force. Additionally, Sen. Neil Anderson (R - Moline) argued rank-and-file police officers should be involved in the discussion.”

 

‘“I like the idea,” Sen. Jil Tracy (R - Quincy) said. “What I find disingenuous is the fact that we are unwilling to make this a bipartisan task force. It’s a poison pill and I think it solidifies the direction we’re going in locking out the minority party.”’

 

Lawmakers, ‘Roar for AJ’ group to hold rally in remembrance of AJ Freund at Illinois State Capitol

County Scanner

Sam Borcia

05/06/2022

“State Representative Steve Reick (R-Woodstock), State Senator Craig Wilcox (R-McHenry) and Rep. Tom Weber (R-Lake Villa) will attend the rally, according to a statement.”

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

4-5-22

WICD-TV (Champaign) (1 other source)

Issue: Picture with Fighting Illini-Big Ten Champions

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-5-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: DOC facilities in Pontiac and Vandalia

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-6-22

Lake and McHenry County Scanner

Issue: Roar for AJ rally at the Capitol

 

Sen. Sally Turner

4-6-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Resolution urging college transfers for Illinois College students

 

Sen. Brian Stewart

4-9-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Hunting/Fishing licenses for veterans

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-10-22

Benton Evening News (2 other sources)

Issue: Shawneetown port project

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-10-22

Carbondale Times

Issue: State snake

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-8-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Cape Girardeau air service/impact on region

 

Sen. Win Stoller

4-10-22

Starvedrock media (Regional radio station group)

Issue: Sgt. Lincoln Hollinsaid I-80 bridge

 

Sen. Bailey to host live Teletown Hall April 11

My Radio Link

04/06/2022

“State Senator Darren Bailey (R-Louisville) is inviting constituents across the 55th Senate District to his live Teletown Hall Monday, April 11, 2022.”

 

After partisan fight, lawmakers approve bill limiting donations in judicial elections

Andrew Adams

State Journal-Register

04/08/2022

“This was a point of contention during the Senate’s debate on Thursday. Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, argued against the measure, saying that a wealthy candidate could fully fund their own campaign while their opponent, who may not be able to do the same, is left with fewer fundraising options.”

 

Illinois State Senator Steve McClure

93.9 WTAX News Radio

Joey M.

04/08/2022

“Joey McLaughlin discusses the end of session with Illinois State Senator Steve McClure.”

 

Statement from State Senator Jason Plummer on the end of the legislative session

Vandalia Radio

Todd Stapleton

04/09/2022

‘State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) released the following statement after the Illinois Senate adjourned in the early morning hours of April 9th: “Families are across this state are struggling to pay their bills while inflation and taxes are out of control. I supported numerous measures to freeze the gas tax, permanently, increase property tax credits, permanently, and to remove the sales tax on groceries and prescriptions, again, permanently. But after years of fee increases and tax hikes, the only thing the super majority Democrats would allow to move forward were shameless election year gimmicks that expire immediately after the coming election.”’

 

Cook County sheriff, state lawmakers propose legislation to ban untraceable ghost guns

Chicago Tribune, Quad-City Times

Shanzeh Ahmad

04/09/2022

‘“The public safety of the people of Illinois is so important,” said Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet. “We want each legislator to be held accountable (to) the citizens of Illinois. Are they going to continue to coddle violent offenders?”’

 

Resolution to name Princeton bridge to Honor Staff Sergeant Lincoln Hollinsaid passes

WALLS 102

Staff

04/10/2022

“State Senator Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) announced the initiative after the General Assembly passed the resolution this week.”

 

Crypto Industry Helps Write, and Pass, Its Own Agenda in State Capitols

The New York Times

Eric Lipton and David Yaffe-Bellany

04/10/2022

“In January, Sue Rezin, a Republican state senator, introduced the bill — at the urging of the chamber, she said in an interview. She said she was not a crypto expert and hadn’t “heard too much” about mining’s environmental impact.”

Illinois Senate advances legislation despite pushback from housing providers

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

04/04/2022

“Most of the debate has been about the forced implementation of the Section 8 housing program. State Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said the bill will harm the state.”

 

After partisan fight, lawmakers approve bill limiting donations in judicial elections

State Journal-Register

Andrew Adams

04/08/2022

“This was a point of contention during the Senate’s debate on Thursday. Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, argued against the measure, saying that a wealthy candidate could fully fund their own campaign while their opponent, who may not be able to do the same, is left with fewer fundraising options.”

 

Illinois lawmakers working to pass inflation relief

Fox Illinois

Noelle Forde

04/08/2022

‘"It's kind of disingenuous to put something and it expires when the election is over, I mean people see right through that," said Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet.’

Concealed Carry Renewal

Illinois concealed carry renewal backlogs persist

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/28/2022

“During a Senate committee last week, state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, told Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly that problems persist despite a clearing of FOID card backlogs.”

 

Concealed carry delays still plaguing Illinois gun owners

Bearing Arms

Cam Edwards

03/30/2022

“During a Senate committee last week, state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysborow, told Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly that problems persist despite a clearing of FOID card backlogs.”

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-28-22

Effingham Daily News (9 other sources)

Issue: FOID card backlog persists

 

Illinois concealed carry renewal backlogs persist

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/28/2022

“During a Senate committee last week, state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysborow, told Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly that problems persist despite a clearing of FOID card backlogs.”

Democrat Tax Plan

Senate Democrats offer tax cut plan to help Illinois families; Republicans say their relief plans ignored

The Center Square

Kevin Bessler

03/29/2022

“State Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, said Republicans have been pushing for tax relief since day one.”

 

Republican senator reacts to Senate Democrats tax relief plan

KHQA 7

KHQA Staff

04/01/2022

“State Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) reacted Friday night to the tax relief plan announced earlier on Friday by Senate Democrats.”

 

Senate Democrats Unveil $1.8 Billion Election Year Tax Package

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

03/02/2022

‘Republicans were skeptical of the plan. Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) called the proposal a “disingenuous gimmick.”’

 

Illinois Democrats offer temporary tax relief proposal that Republicans say doesn’t go far enough

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/01/2022

“State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Bloomington, said Illinois taxpayers deserve more.”

 

Plan would put some bus drivers back behind the wheel by tweaking child support license suspensions

My Journal Courier

David C.L. Bauer

03/01/2022

“With the help of Sen. Steve McClure, a Springfield Republican, Davidsmeyer's House Bill 4230 passed both legislative chambers and now is on its way to the governor.”

 

As Democrats continue budget talks, Republicans say millions of their constituents are being snubbed

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/30/2022

“Assistant Senate Minority Leader Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, said not having Republicans included in the budget negotiations is a major disservice to large parts of the state.”

 

Republican senator reacts to Senate Democrats tax relief plan

KHQA Fox Illinois

KHQA Staff

04/01/2022

“State Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) reacted Friday night to the tax relief plan announced earlier on Friday by Senate Democrats.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-2-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy) (1 other sources)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-3-22

WMAY Radio (Springfield)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-3-22

Starvedrock Media

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-2-22

Champaign News Gazette (26 other sources)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-2-22

DeWitt Observer (6 other sources)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-2-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy) (4 other sources)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-1-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy) (3 other sources)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-1-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-1-22

Pure Oldies 107.5 (Springfield)

Issue: Senate Dem tax relief plan

Education

Public Schools May Be Required To Provide Vegan, Vegetarian Lunch Options Under New Legislation

WLDS/WEAI News

Benjamin Cox

03/31/2022

‘State Senator Jil Tracy of Quincy says that the bill is yet another unfunded state mandate for public schools: “Local control and allowing a school district to function to serve the constituency their students require is a much more reasoned way to go about this.”’

 

Bill would require schools to offer vegan, vegetarian options upon request

Capitol News Illinois, Mohomet Daily

PETER HANCOCK

03/29/2022

“Sen. Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, said schools already have the authority to offer plant-based food options because there is nothing in state law prohibiting it.”

 

“Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, pointed out that earlier in the day, the Senate Education Committee held a hearing on Senate Bill 4147 that would require schools to offer halal food options. That’s food deemed permissible under Islamic law.”

 

Lincoln College in Illinois to close after 157 years due to COVID impact

Jean Ann Miller

Lincoln Courier

03/31/2022

“In a joint statement, state Sen. Sally Turner, R-Beason, and state Rep. Tim Butler, R-Springfield, said Lincoln College's closure was devastating news for the local community.”

 

College Closes After 157 Years

Inside Higher Ed

Scott Jaschik

04/01/2022

‘A statement from State Senator Sally Turner and State Representative Tim Butler said, “Today’s unexpected and sudden closure announcement is devastating news for our local community. We both have had close family and friends who attended and graduated from Lincoln College, so we know just how special Lincoln is to its students and alumni. For more than 150 years, the namesake college of our 16th president has served as a higher educational pillar for central Illinois. It is painful to think that this historic institution will no longer be a part of our region.”’

 

Ag breakfast returns to in person program and awards 5 agriculture scholarships

Lincoln Courier

Jean Ann Miller

03/31/2022

“Keynote speaker was 87th district Representative Tim Butler who currently covers Logan County and told the room he and Senator Sally Turner would be leaving early due to a scheduled meeting with the Illinois Board of Higher Education regarding the news of Lincoln College closing.”

 

Senator Rezin proposes legislation to help school districts

WSPY News

Justin Ritz

03/31/2022

“State Senator Sue Rezin is proposing legislation that will help area school districts save time. Rezin says she wants school administrators to spend less time on writing reports for state agencies. Rezin says there is also a similar house bill from Ottawa State Rep. Lance Yednock.”

 

Sen. Sally Turner

4-1-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Helping Lincoln College students

 

Sen. Sally Turner

4-1-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: The closing of Lincoln College

 

Sen. Sally Turner

4-1-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: The closing of Lincoln College

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Vegan lunch options for schools

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: Vegan lunch options for schools

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-31-22

Lincoln Courier

Issue: Local Ag breakfast

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-31-22

Bloomington Pantagraph

Issue: The closing of Lincoln College

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-31-22

WSPY Radio (Plano/Aurora)

Issue: Required school reports

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-30-22

KMOX Radio (St. Louis)

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-30-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-31-22

Metropolis Planet (28 other sources)

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

Metropolis Planet (28 other sources)

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-30-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-31-22

Inside Higher Ed (industry media source)

Issue: Lincoln College closing

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-30-22

Bloomington Pantagraph

Issue: Lincoln College closing

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-29-22

Effingham Daily News (6 other sources)

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-29-22

Effingham Daily News (6 other sources)

Issue: Requiring schools to offer vegan lunch options

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-30-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris)

Issue: Mandate relief for schools

 

Bill to give vaccinated teachers paid sick leave from COVID-19 advances to Senate floor for final vote

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/31/2022

‘“I voted for this originally,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) said during the committee meeting Wednesday. “I’m concerned about this mandate and treating different groups within the collective bargaining agreement differently in regards to this.”’

Energy

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-31-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County) (28 other sources)

Issue: Energy grid reliability

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-31-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: Energy grid reliability

 

State Senate approves energy grid reliability task force

Capitol News Illinois

JERRY NOWICKI

03/31/2022

“Sen. Sue Rezin, a Republican from Morris who voted for CEJA, praised the task force bill.”

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-1-22

Alton Telegraph

Issue: Energy Grid Reality Task Force

Health

Bill securing sick leave for vaccinated teachers heads to Pritzker’s desk

23 WIFR

Mike Miletich

03/31/2022

‘“It seemed like this was a requirement by the governor’s office,” said Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy). “And it seemed to put some people in an unfair position.”’

 

“Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie also stressed concerns about the legislation. He noted that Pritzker has consistently tried to put a vaccine mandate in schools. McConchie noted that some courts tossed out that executive order. The Hawthorn Woods Republican argued this is another attempt for Pritzker to have the mandate in law.”

 

MEASURE BENEFITING ONLY VACCINATED SCHOOL STAFF CUED UP FOR GOVERNOR

WMIX 94

Staff

03/31/2022

‘“We are going to allow pay concessions for sick days for those teachers who have been vaccinated only,” said state Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy. “This only applies to vaccinated individuals.”’

 

Stoller keeps heat on Democrats regarding COVID-19 debt repayment plan

1470 & 100.3 WMBD

Will Stevenson

03/28/2022

“State Senator Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) says not enough of the American Recovery Plan money given to the state was used to pay down the debt in the UI Trust Fund.”

 

“Stoller held a press conference this afternoon at Widmer Interiors in Peoria, where he is the CEO. He was joined by State Senator Sue Rezin (R-Morris), Senate Deputy Minority Leader.”

 

COVID-19 leave for vaccinated teachers clears Illinois General Assembly

Capitol News Illinois

PETER HANCOCK

03/31/2022

“Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, pointed to a hypothetical example of two teachers, one vaccinated and one not, who have to stay home to take care of a sick child. He said one of those would receive paid leave to do so but the other would not.”

 

‘Fertility fraud’ exposes doctors’ crimes in new bill

Week 25 News

Jon Schoenheider

03/30/2022

“Koehler, a Democrat, adds there’s bipartisan support for the bill. State senator and Republican Jason Barickman is acting as chief co-sponsor.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-1-22

Champaign News Gazette (3 other sources)

Issue: COVID-19 time off for vaccinated teachers

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-1-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: COVID-19 time off for vaccinated teachers

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

Chicago Tribune (2 other sources)

Issue: Covid-19 sick leave for teachers

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-31-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County) (29 other sources)

Issue: Covid-19 leave for teachers

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-31-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Covid-19 leave for teachers

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-31-22

Chicago Tribune (2 other sources)

Issue: Covid-19 sick leave for teachers

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Covid-19 sick leave for teachers

 

COVID-19 leave for vaccinated teachers clears General Assembly

Capitol News Illinois

PETER HANCOCK

03/31/2022

“Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, pointed to a hypothetical example of two teachers, one vaccinated and one not, who have to stay home to take care of a sick child. He said one of those would receive paid leave to do so but the other would not.”

Legal Cannabis Regulation 

Issues of trust surround aspects of Illinois’ legal cannabis regulation

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/28/2022

“During a Senate committee hearing last week, state Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, raised another issue of trust surrounding the state’s regulation of the industry.”

 

Illinois Senate Committee Abruptly Halts Debate On Bill To Protect Workers Who Test Positive For Cannabis

Marijuana Moment

Ben Adlin

03/31/2022

“Sen. Jil Tracy (R) questioned the boundaries of the bill’s exemptions, noting that it leaves the term “heavy machinery” undefined and appears to exempt workers in retail settings from the privacy protections but not workers in otherwise similar wholesale settings.”

 

“Republican Sen. Sue Rezin asked how the process for companies declaring safety-sensitive positions would work. She said businesses in what she described as her “chemical corridor” district had told her they have difficulty finding enough workers who test negative for THC.”

 

“A few on the panel, including Sen. Donald P. DeWitte (R), said the state’s cannabis legalization law had explicitly granted employers the ability to preserve zero-tolerance drug policies.”

 

Issues of trust surround aspects of Illinois’ legal cannabis regulation

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/28/2022

“During a Senate committee hearing last week, state Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, raised another issue of trust surrounding the state’s regulation of the industry.”

Prisoner Review Board

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-28-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County) (1 other source)

Issue: PRB Appointees/5 people await confirmation process

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-28-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (16 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-28-22

Effingham Daily News (1 other source)

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Illinois Prisoner Review Board Down Two More Members

Vandalia Radio

Todd Stapleton

03/29/2022

“State Senator Jason Plummer, who is the Republican spokesperson on the Executive Appointments Committee, says he wishes everyone could sit in committee.”

 

Rejections, resignations from Prisoner Review Board spark concerns

News Channel ABC 20

Jordan Elder

03/29/2022

“Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield, sits on the Executive Appointments committee and spoke out against the rejected nominee Monday.”

 

Political battle stalls IL Prisoner Review Board

WIBQ

Cole Henke

03/30/2022

“Any appointee the governor puts forward now will be willingly walking into a battlefield for the upcoming election. Senate Republican Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) said the board is better off not taking votes at all instead of the ones that Pritzker’s appointees were making.”

 

Illinois Prisoner Review Board Down Two More Members

Effingham Radio

03/29/2022

“The state Senate voted yesterday against Governor Pritzker’s nomination of Eleanor Wilson to the board.  She had served on the board in an interim capacity since March of last year.  State Senator Jason Plummer, who is the Republican spokesperson on the Executive Appointments Committee, says he wishes everyone could sit in committee.”

 

Two More Members Out at IL Prison Review Board on Monday, Pritzker Defends Nominations

WLDS/WEAI

Benjamin Cox

03/31/2022

‘During floor debate, 50th District Republican Senator Steve McClure criticized Wilson for her votes in releasing a number of violent criminals who re-offended upon their release on parole: “These are serious cases. When a judge looks at the evidence and decides that you need to go serve 100 to 300 years in prison because your crime was so horrific – that needs to be taken very seriously.”’

 

‘Republican Senator Jason Plummer in a press release for the Senate GOP Caucus also had a swift reaction to the governor calling state Republicans members of the QAnon conspiracy theory group: “In the spirit of Margaret Thatcher, when one’s opponents resort to low grade personal attacks, it shows that they have no legitimate political arguments left. I am embarrassed for the Governor.”’

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-31-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-31-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

4-2-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

4-3-22

Southern Illinoisan (16 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-30-22

WWVR Radio (Paris) (3 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-31-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-30-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal-Quincy)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-30-22

State Journal Register

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-30-22

WDML Radio (Mt. Vernon) (4 other sources)

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-30-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-29-22

WHBF-TV (Davenport, IA)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-29-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-29-22

WBBM Radio (Chicago)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-29-22

WBBM Radio (Chicago) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-30-22

WEHT-TV (Evansville, IN)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-30-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-29-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-29-22

Ogle County Newspapers (27 other sources)

Issue: PRB Appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-29-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-29-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Senate rejects Prisoner Review Board nominee after another resigns, leaving board short of quorum

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/29/2022

“Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) called Wilson’s nomination “more troubling than any of the individuals” Pritzker has nominated. Republicans who spoke out against Wilson cited seven cases in which she voted to release people convicted of murdering police officers as well as others who committed brutal murders and were sentenced to multiple centuries behind bars.”  

 

‘“This person does not deserve to stay on this board where they can do more harm and terrorize more victims in this state,” Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) said.’ 

 

“Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) said he believes people should be given second chances, but Wilson let out people who were too high of a risk to commit more crimes.”

 

UPDATED: One Prisoner Review Board member resigns; Senate rejects another

Capitol News Illinois

BETH HUNDSDORFER

03/28/2022

‘“Miss Wilson voted multiple times to release cop killers, release those who are putting their jobs on the line for us,” said Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro.’

 

Pritzker blames GOP, not majority Democrats, for prisoner review board appointees being rejected

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/29/2022

“But state Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, said the governor is promoting a false narrative.”

 

Eye On Illinois: Are lawmakers more upset with PRB’s makeup or its powers?

Shaw Media

Scott T. Holland

03/31/2022

“On Jan. 21, state Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, filed Senate Bill 3899, which would reinstate the death penalty in Illinois as a possible punishment for killing a police officer. It has two GOP cosponsors and sits in the Assignments Committee. Three days later state Rep. Dave Severin, R-Benton, filed the substantially similar House Bill 4746, which has six GOP cosponsors and sits in the Rules Committee.”

Public Safety

Illinois Senate bill to crack down on smash-and-grab thefts has bipartisan support

Chicago Journal

JOHN O'CONNOR

03/30/2022

‘“This will lead to a more comprehensive prosecution that will capture more individuals that are involved in the network,” said Sen. John Curran, a Downers Grove Republican and co-sponsor of the legislation. “You’re talking about anyone involved in organizing, planning through the actual commission of the crime and on the back end with the proliferation of stolen goods.”’

 

Sen. John Curran

4-1-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Combating retail theft

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-31-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Protecting DCFS employees/Aggravating battery

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-31-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Protecting DCFS employees/Aggravating battery

 

Sen. John Curran

4-1-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Targeting retail theft

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

3-31-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Dispatchers are first responders

 

Sen. John Curran

3-31-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (108 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-30-22

Freeburg Tribune (1 other source)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-30-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-29-22

Pontiac Daily Leader (publishing Cap Fax report)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-29-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-29-22

Ogle County Newspapers (6 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-29-22

Mattoon Journal Gazette & Charleston Times-Courier (4 other sources)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-29-22

State Journal Register

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. John Curran

3-29-22

Positively Naperville

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-29-22

KHQA-TV (Hannibal/Quincy) (1 other source)

Issue: Retail theft legislation

 

Watch now: Illinois lawmakers target 'smash-and-grab' retail crime

The Pantagraph

Kade Heather

03/29/2022

“The legislation has at least one bipartisan sponsor in State Sen. John Curran, R-Downers Grove, and Karr says he expects more bipartisan support in the House.”

 

Illinois lawmakers try to tackle 'organized retail crime' as legislative session wraps up

Andrew Adams

State Journal-Register

03/29/2022

“Glowiak Hilton's proposal has earned support from both sides of the aisle. In addition to herself and Turner, Sen. John Curran, R-Downer's Grove.”

 

Illinois lawmakers look to address organized retail crime

Capitol News Illinois

GRACE KINNICUTT

03/29/2022

‘“Make no mistake, these crimes are not random,” Sen. John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said. “They are sophisticated, orchestrated events that exploit gaps in our criminal statutes to help fund gang activity and crime rates.”’

 

Sen. Steve McClure

KHQA-TV (Hannibal-Quincy)

Issue: Allowing DCFS workers to carry pepper spray

UI Trust Fund

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-28-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-28-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-28-22

WXEF Radio (Effingham)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-28-22

KHQA-TV (Quincy)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-28-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

Sen. Win Stoller

3-28-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-28-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-28-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-29-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-29-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts) (2 other sources)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt (from press conference)

 

Republicans push to fully pay off state's unemployment debt

KHQA 7

WICS/WRSP Staff

03/28/2022

“Republican Senator Win Stoller, R-Peoria, said this whole situation could've been avoided just by using all of the federal money.”

 

State Senator Rezin critical of handling of Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

WALLS 102
Staff

03/28/2022

“Illinois Senate Deputy Minority Leader Sue Rezin (R-Morris) has criticized Illinois Democrats for legislation that fell short of funding the $4.5 billion Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt, which she claimed could lead to one of the largest tax increases on Illinois employers in history.  Senate Bill 2803 appropriated only $2.7 billion of the $8.1 billion available from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to the UI Trust Fund.”

 

Illinois’ Trust-Fund Debt Paydown Earns Business Plaudits, and Republican Grumbling

The River Cities Reader

Rich Miller

03/28/2022

The appreciation from business groups was definitely not matched by the Republicans’ tone. They fretted that since all the debt wasn’t eliminated, the rest would have to come from employer tax-hikes and worker benefit-cuts. Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie issued a statement predicting that the bill will have a “devastating” impact on businesses — the same businesses whose industry representatives called the same bill a “positive step.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-30-22

Illinois Times (Springfield)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-29-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-29-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-29-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-29-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-29-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-29-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-29-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

MISC.

Rental property owners remain opposed to bill requiring subsidized housing

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

03/31/2022

“Committee member and Illinois state Sen. Donald DeWitte, R-St. Charles, said the bill still needs work.”

 

“Most of the debate has been about the forced implementation of the Section 8 housing program. Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, said so far the two sides can't come together due to that issue.”

 

McConchie launches essay contest to honor teachers

Kane County Chronicle

Northwest Herald staff report

04/03/2022

“In an effort to honor teachers and educators across the 26th Senate District, state Sen. Dan McConchie is launching is a “My Inspirational Teacher” essay contest.”

 

11-year-old southern Ill. boy works with senators, representatives to establish official state snake

KFVS 12

Amber Ruch

03/31/2022

“Senator Dale Fowler passed legislation through the Senate, inspired by Carterville resident Gentry Heiple, to establish the eastern milksnake as the official state snake of Illinois.”

 

ILLINOIS MAY SOON HAVE AN OFFICIAL STATE SNAKE

WMIX 94

Staff

03/31/2022

“An 11-year-old from Williamson County recommended naming the Eastern Milksnake to the list of state symbols, so Senator Dale Fowler of Harrisburg did his research.”

Sen. Craig Wilcox

4-2-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Capping the sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-1-22

Randolph County Herald Tribune

Issue: State snake

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

4-3-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Essay contest to honor teachers

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

4-2-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Capping the sale tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

4-1-22

Carbondale Times (4 other sources)

Issue: Molly Young memorial

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

4-1-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: State Snake designation

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-31-22

KBSI-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO)

Issue: State Snake designation

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-31-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO)

Issue: State Snake designation

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-31-22

WMIX Radio (Mt. Vernon) (1 other source)

Issue: State Snake designation

 

Sen. Brian Stewart

3-31-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Freeport Blood Drive

 

Sen. Steve McClure

4-1-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Issue: Child support drivers license suspensions

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-31-22

Alton Telegraph

Issue: Child support drivers license suspensions

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-31-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Fertility fraud

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-31-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Fertility fraud

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-31-22

WRPW Radio (Bloomington/Normal)

Issue: Subsidized housing

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-31-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO) (3 other sources)

Issue: Subsidized housing

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-30-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (1 other source)

Issue: Fertility fraud

Prisoner Review Board

Senate rejects former corrections officer-nominee to PRB; Confirmation vote comes three years into Pritzker term

Madison – St. Clair Record

Steve Korris

03/23/2022

“Pritzker withdrew Cerda after Sen. Steve McClure (R- Jacksonville) questioned the appointment at a hearing on the board’s appropriation.”

 

“Pritzker sent the letter to Murphy five days after she received a letter from Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville).”

 

“Sen. Terri Bryant (R- Murphysboro) asked Mears if he would parole a person who killed their children.”

 

Senators recommend 4 nominees to the Prisoner Review Board, but full Senate votes down 1 nominee as Republicans drill down on parole votes

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/23/2022

‘“I think you take this seriously and that’s good because you’re making very important decisions, as are other members of the PRB,” Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) said. “My concern is people get confirmed and they can vote their conscience and do their job. But by dangling these positions out there and not allowing people to be confirmed to the position seems to allow an extra layer of influence form the governor’s office.”’

 

“The full Senate voted against confirming Mears Tuesday afternoon after Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) raised concerns about votes Mears has previously taken to release people convicted of violent crimes. Many Democrats did not vote on the nomination.” 

 

‘“I’m looking at serval of these horrific cases that you choose to parole people for,” Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) said. “Your explanation for what you’re using to judge these folks and what you’re actually [voting on] directly contradicts each other.”’

 

Republicans fault Pritzker for not securing prisoner review board appointees

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/23/2022

“State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, serves on the Executive Appointments Committee and said Republicans are not spreading fake news. They’re highlighting high leniency rates of the nominees serving on the board leading to convicted criminals being let free.”

 

IL Senate Rejects Pritzker Nominee to Prison Review Board

WLDS/WEAI

Benjamin Cox

03/25/2022

“Republican State Senator Terri Bryant also voiced concern over Mears’ vote to grant parole for Paula Sims, convicted in 1990 for killing her two daughters in Alton. Sims had been serving a life sentence for the crime. The board voted 12-1 to allow Sims’ release.”

 

Republicans tout ‘moral victory’ in blocking Pritzker Prisoner Review Board nomination

WCIA

Mark Maxwell

03/27/2022

“State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), a former prosecutor, joined Capitol Connection to react to Senate Democrats blocking one of Governor J.B. Pritzker’s nominees to the Prisoner Review Board.”

 

Illinois Prisoner Review Board members with high leniency rates not recommended for re-appointment

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/22/2022

“State Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield, took PRB member Oreal James to task for his votes to grant leniency nearly 45% of the time since he’s been on the board.”

 

Senate rejects Prisoner Review Board appointee

Capitol News Illinois

BETH HUNDSDORFER

03/25/2022

“Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, pointed to the Sims case one of the more hot-button decisions.”

 

Are prisoner board appointments too hot to handle?

Jim Dey

03/22/2022

“Republican state Sen. Jason Plummer asked Senate appointments committee chairwoman Laura Murphy why the appointments were withdrawn. Murphy’s response did not constitute an answer.”

 

Republicans fault Pritzker for not securing prisoner review board appointees

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/23/2022

“State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, serves on the Executive Appointments Committee and said Republicans are not spreading fake news. They’re highlighting high leniency rates of the nominees serving on the board leading to convicted criminals being let free.”

 

Gov. J.B. Pritzker vows to sign plan to use $2.7 billion in federal relief to reduce unemployment fund debt

Chicago Tribune

Dan Petrella

03/23/2022

‘“I think it’s incredibly disingenuous this afternoon and after last night’s action in the House for Democrats to be painting today’s action as a win or a success for fiscal responsibility,” said Sen. Donald DeWitte, a St. Charles Republican. “Employers who have been treated with absolute disregard throughout this pandemic will literally be left holding the bag and will be responsible for filling the remaining deficit in the unemployment insurance trust fund.”’

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-23-22

WJPF Radio (Herrin) (11 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-27-22

WIND Radio (Chicago) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-23-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-25-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-27-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign) (5 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-26-22

HomeTownRegister (regional newspaper group in central and southern Illinois) (14 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-24-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County)

Issue: PRB appointments

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-24-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County)

Issue: PRB appointments

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-23-22

Illinois Business Journal (3 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-23-22

Pure Oldies 107.5 (Springfield/Capitol Radio Group)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-23-22

WUEZ Radio (Decatur) (11 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-23-22

Illinois Business Journal (2 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointee

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-22-22

Chicago Tribune (2 other sources)

Issue: PRB appointee

Tax Credits

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

Issue: Tax incentive for volunteer fire fighters

 

Sen. Jil Tracy

3-25-22

El Dia News Chicago

Issue: Tax credits for volunteer fire departments

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-25-22

Ford County Chronicle

Issue: Tax credits for volunteer fire departments

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

3-25-22

El Dia News Chicago

Issue: Tax credits for volunteer fire departments

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-25-22

El Dia News Chicago

Issue: Tax credits for volunteer fire departments

Unemployment Insurance Fund

Illinois Senate passes $4.1 billion bill partially paying off unemployment debt

WSIL TV 3

News 3

03/25/2022

“State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) called the bill's passage ill-advised and financially irresponsible.”

 

Pritzker Celebrates, GOP Slams Passage of SB2803 That Pays Down State Unemployment Insurance Fund

WLDS/WEAI

Benjamin Cox

03/25/2022

‘Republican State Senator Win Stoller of Peoria said in a press conference yesterday that the bill will have dire consequences: “We are facing the possibility of one of the largest tax increases on employers in Illinois history. We are facing the possibility of significant benefit cuts to people who need them most – unemployed workers. And, we are facing the possibility of trying to borrow our way out of this problem.”’

 

Area Lawmakers Weigh In On Hefty State Debt Legislation

WSPY News

Justin Ritz

03/25/2022

“Federal rules allow the state to deposit remaining American Rescue Plan money into the fund, by the end of this month. State Senator Sue Rezin recently shared her thoughts on the Senate floor.”

 

Local representatives and senator agree that COVID money should pay all trust fund debt

1430 WCMY

Steven Devine

03/25/2022

“St Sen. Sue Rezin of Morris says as Democrats have done this time and time again, they chose to raise taxes rather than pay off debt entirely. She says choosing to leave a $1.8 billion hole in the is critical social safety net program, with no plan to pay back the rest of the debt, leaves taxpayers on the hook for future increases.”

 

Senate Republicans criticize plan to pay down state's unemployment fund debt

WCBU

Maggie Strahan

03/24/2022

‘State Sen. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, led the GOP charge against this bill on the Senate floor Thursday afternoon, where he repeatedly called the bill a “train wreck.”’

 

“Joining Stoller in voting against the plan were Republican state Sens. Sally Turner and Jason Barickman, who represent parts of Bloomington-Normal. Democratic state Sen. Dave Koehler of Peoria voted in favor.”

 

Amount of unemployment fraud not revealed as lawmakers evaluate paying debt

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/22/2022

“State Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said taxpayers need an estimate for Illinois.”

 

Sen. Bailey responds to Democrats’ failure to pay back unemployment money

104.3 The Party

Staff

03/24/2022

‘State Senator Darren Bailey (R-Louisville) has released the following statement following the Senate passage of an incomplete plan to address the state’s multi-billion-dollar unemployment insurance trust fund deficit: “Our state is notorious for the way it manages money and today’s vote is proof that there is no change in sight.”’

 

Lawmakers send Pritzker bill partially paying unemployment insurance fund debt, paying other debts as Democrats claim ‘fiscal responsibility’

Ben Szalinski

03/25/2022

‘“We are facing the prospects of one of the largest tax increases on our employers in state history,” Sen. Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) said. “We’re also facing the possibility of cuts to employees who deserve these unemployment benefits, and we’re facing the possibility of trying to borrow our way out of this problem with additional bonding debt.”’

 

‘“Fiscal responsibility would have been a year ago, when we said let’s take the ARPA money and pay this off like so many other states did,” Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) said.’

 

House Votes to Spend ARPA Cash on Unemployment Fund, GOP says It's Not Enough

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

03/24/2022

‘Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) & Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria): “Illinois Democrats had a simple choice today, they could use ARPA funding to pay off the unemployment insurance trust fund debt, or they could impose a tax hike on jobs. As they have done time and time again, they chose the tax hike. The only way to avoid a tax increase on jobs and cuts to unemployment benefits is to fully pay off the debt our state owes to the federal government.”’

 

Democrats herald partially paying down unemployment debt; Republicans warn of tax increases, benefit cuts to come

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/24/2022

“State Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, said Republicans support paying down debt, but they want to pay down the whole debt. Not doing so could lead to tax increases on businesses, benefit cuts for the unemployed and continued interest payments that taxpayers would be responsible for.”

 

“State Sen. Win Stoller said if the balance isn’t paid by this summer, there'll be tax increases on job creators and benefit reductions for the unemployed.”

 

Financial stabilization or backdoor tax? Lawmakers tackle Illinois' unemployment debt

State-Journal Register

Andrew Adams

03/24/2022

‘"I wish to be recorded as a hell no," said Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, after a technical issue prevented her vote from being initially recorded.’

 

‘"Texas used almost half of their ARPA funds, 7.2 billion, to fix their unemployment trust fund deficit," said Sen. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills.’

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-23-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance fraud

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-23-22

WMIX Radio (Mt. Vernon) (4 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance fraud

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-24-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (4 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-24-22

Effingham Daily News (5 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-25-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-24-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-24-22

WTTW-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-24-22

WCBU Radio (NPR-Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sally Turner

WCBU Radio (NPR-Peoria)

Issue: Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-25-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-25-22

KFS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-25-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girardeau, MO) (3 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-24-22

WCBU Radio (NPR-Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-24-22

WMBD Radio (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-25-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (2 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-25-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-24-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

DeWitt Daily News

3-25-22

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-25-22

KMOV-TV (St. Louis) (139 other sources)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-25-22

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-25-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris) (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-25-22

KMOV-TV (St. Louis)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-25-22

Jacksonville Journal-Courier (1 other source)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-25-22

KMOV-TV (St. Louis)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-25-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-25-22

DeWitt Daily News

Issue: Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-25-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt

MISC.

Shawneetown Port Project makes progress, hoping to open by January 2023

WSIL TV

Madeline Parker
03/21/2022

“Inside the Shawneetown Regional Port District, Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg), Illinois's Secretary of Transportation Omer Osman, and other community members came together to solidify plans for the revitalization of the Shawneetown Port.”

 

Family holds Justice for Molly memorial ten years into ongoing investigation

Joe Rehana

WSIL TV 3

03/27/2022

“State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) also spoke at the event Sunday. She sponsored two house bills signed by Governor Bruce Rauner in 2016, which are known as Molly's Laws.”

 

Community Forum: Jason Barickman Talks About Pontiac Prison, the State Budget and More

WJEZ Classic Hits 98.9

Staff

03/25/2022

“State Senator Jason Barickman talks about his understanding of the Pontiac prison situation, about the state budget, and gives his reaction to the indictment of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan. The Community Forum on WJEZ is sponsored by K & S Ford in Fairbury.”

 

Illinois lawmakers could pass plan to diversify health care workforce

WGEM

Mike Miletich

03/22/2022

“Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) asked Kirchoff if people would not be eligible for this program if they already received financial assistance from another loan repayment program. While Kirchoff couldn’t provide that information during committee, she noted that members will have that answer before the full Senate votes on the bill.”

 

Jelani Day Bill passes Illinois State Senate, awaits approval by House

Vidette Online

MARISSA HARVEY

03/23/2022

“Illinois State Sen. Craig Wilcox (R-McHenry) explained the controversy that occurred when Gabby Petito’s body was found by the FBI within days.”

 

Bill allowing DCFS workers to carry pepper spray meets opposition from advocates including ACLU

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/42/2022

“Sen. Steve McClure (R-Springfield) filed SB1486 in response to the murder of Sangamon County Deidre Silas, saying it would ensure investigators are able to protect themselves if a person becomes aggressive toward them. Rep. Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) defended the bill in the House Human Services Committee Wednesday against accusations that the bill lacks “guardrails” to ensure employees use pepper spray properly.”

 

Illinois lawmakers can help families fight inflation by putting cap on gasoline sales tax

Chicago Sun-Times

Dave Syverson and Donald DeWitte

03/21/2022

“State Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) represents the 35th District. State Sen. Donald DeWitte (R-St. Charles) represents the 33rd District.”

 

Keicher, Syverson propose sales tax cap on gasoline as prices surge in Illinois

The Shaw Local

Kelsey Rettke and Tom Collins

03/24/2022

“State Republican lawmakers Rep. Jeff Keicher and Sen. Dave Syverson are calling on Springfield to cap the statewide sales tax on motor fuel at 18-cents per gallon to provide relief for Illinoisans at the gas pump amid soaring prices and inflation.”

 

Dems celebrate, GOP castigates

93.9 WTAX News Radio

Staff

03/24/2022

“The $2.7 billion dollar payment – representing only half the fund’s shortage – passed both chambers on a partisan vote, and State Sen. Win Stoller (R-Germantown Hills) said they’re doing it wrong.”

 

“Speaking of labor and business, while Pritzker lauded their leadership and involvement, State Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) said Pritzker’s misleading you. She said labor and business actually oppose the bill as passed, but they wouldn’t say so, adding Democrats had a figurative gun to their heads.”

 

Sen. John Curran

3-24-22

Positively Naperville (Story about the major’s State of the City Address)

Issue: Tornado recovery

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-25-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Downsizing of the Pontiac and Vandalia CC

 

Sen. John Curran

3-27-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago (5 other sources)

Issue: Ending cash bail

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

Southern Illinoisan

3-27-22

Issue: 10th anniversary of Molly Young’s death

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-23-22

KWQC-TV (Quad Cities) (4 other sources)

Issue: High school diploma for DOC inmates

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-24-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Girdeau, MO) (3 other sources)

Issue: Volunteer fire fighter shortage

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-24-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Capping the sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-24-22

FarmWeek

Issue: Inflation’s impact on lumber industry

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-24-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer

Issue: Covid tests for SIU-E students

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-23-22

WIRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Health care scholarships

 

Sen. Jason Barickman

3-21-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Downsizing the Pontiac Correctional Center

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-21-22

WICD-TV/WICS-TV (Champaign/Springfield)

Issue: State budget

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-21-22

WSPY Radio (Aurora) (1 other source)

Issue: Capping the sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dale Fowler

3-21-22

WSIL-TV (Harrisburg) (1 other source) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Shawneetown Port District

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-21-22

WCCU-TV (Springfield)

Issue: Allowing DCFS workers to carry pepper spray

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-23-22

KFVS-TV (Cape Giradeau, MO) (3 other sources)

Issue: Health Care scholarships

Blue Cross/Blue Shield

Sen. Sally Turner

3-13-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-13-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-13-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-14-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign) (4 other sources) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-13-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria) (5 other sources)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-14-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-14-22

WEHT-TV (Evansville, Indiana)

Issue: Blue Cross/Blue Shield investigation

Gas Tax

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-11-22

State Journal-Register

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-14-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal 

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-12-22

WQRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-11-22

State Journal-Register

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-11-22

WIRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

WIRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-11-22

State Journal Register

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-11-22

State Journal Register

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-12-22

WRSP-TV (Springfield) (1 other source)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-11-22

WAND-TV (Decatur) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WMBD-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WQRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-14-22

WGN Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Capping the sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

3-14-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Senate GOP gasoline sales tax proposal

 

Sen. Dave Syverson says he has a potential solution to lowering gas prices

10 WGN Radio

Curtis Koch

03/14/2022

“Illinois State Senator Dave Syverson from the 35th District joined Chicago’s Afternoon News to discuss how Illinois Republicans are hoping to save drivers money on gas by cutting the sales tax.”

Interviews

NEWSRADIO WJPF INTERVIEW WITH DALE FOWLER

NewsRadio WJPF

Staff

03/16/2022

“Illinois State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) joins The Morning Newswatch.”

Prisoner Review Board

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-12-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Pritzker’s abuse of PRB appointment process

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-14-22

Chronicle Media (Cook County)

Issue: Pritzker abuse of the executive appointments process (PRB)

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-14-22

Quincy Herald Whig

Issue: Pritzker abuse of the executive appointments process (PRB)

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-16-22

Daily Herald (30 other sources)

Issue: Pritzker’s abuse of executive appointments process/PRB

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-18-22

Chicago Crusader

Issue: PRB Executive Appointments

 

Pritzker pulls another Prisoner Review Board appointment, calls for Senate action

Capitol News Illinois

BETH HUNDSDORFER

03/16/2022

“A copy of the letter addressed to Sen. Laura Murphy, D-Des Plaines, and Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, was obtained by Capitol News Illinois. The letter urged the Executive Appointments Committee, which Murphy chairs, to act on the appointments.”

 

Pritzker asks Senate to hold confirmation hearings on Prisoner Review Board nominees in limbo for more than a year

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/17/2022

“Pritzker wrote a letter to chair of the Senate Executive Appointments Committee Sen. Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) and the committee’s Republican leader Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) Tuesday requesting six unconfirmed appointees receive a confirmation hearing before the deadline passes on the appointments in the next several weeks.”

Senior Citizen Care

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-11-22

WCIA-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Family visits to nursing homes

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-14-22

WOOZ Radio (Carterville/Carbondale)

Issue: Family visits to nursing homes

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-14-22

WOOZ Radio (Carterville/Carbondale) (2 other sources)

Issue: Family visits to nursing homes

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-14-22

Quincy Herald Whig

Issue: Standards of care at nursing homes

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-15-22

State Journal Register

Issue: Family visits to nursing homes

 

Bill requiring medical facilities to allow visitors during pandemic one step closer to passage

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/17/2022

“The initiative was brought to Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) by a constituent who was unable to visit her grandfather in the hospital last year during his final weeks.”

Veterans Affairs

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-11-22

Chronicle Illinois (Cook County)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-14-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home lawsuit

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-14-22

Chicago Tribune (2 other sources)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home lawsuit

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-16-22

Patch.com

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home lawsuit

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-16-22

WOOZ Radio (Carterville/Carbondale) (9 other sources)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home lawsuit

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-16-22

Mendota Reporter

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

3-16-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home lawsuit/Covid deaths

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-19-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Reforms to address Covid-19 outbreak at LaSalle Veterans’ Home

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-19-22

Bloomington Pantagraph

Issue: Reforms to address Covid-19 outbreak at LaSalle Veterans’ Home

 

Families sue after deadly COVID-19 outbreak at LaSalle Veterans Home

The Center Square

Kevin Bessler

03/15/2022

“Republican State Sen. Sue Rezin of Morris has proposed legislation to avoid a similar event like the LaSalle outbreak in the future, including requiring an immediate on-site review by state health officials when an outbreak occurs at a veteran’s home. The Illinois Department of Public Health didn’t show up at the LaSalle home until 10 days after the outbreak.”

 

No Movement on Bills Meant to Protect Veterans Homes from Disease Outbreaks

WSPY News

Staff

03/17/2022

“Morris Republican State Senator Sue Rezin says she has yet to see any movement on three bills she proposed to prevent, and respond to, disease outbreaks at state-run veterans homes. The bills are in response to the deadly COVID-19 outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans home back in 2020.”

MISC.

Illinois lawmakers debate measure that would use federal funds to pay down unemployment debt

The Center Square

Andrew Hensel

03/14/2022

“Many Republicans in the Senate are opposed to the implementation of SB2803. State Sen. Win Stoller, R-Peoria, said that the $2 billion will not cover the state's debt.”

 

“Some U.S. states used their ARPA dollars to pay off all of their unemployment debt, Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said, and Illinois needs to take the same approach.”

 

GOP Senator: "Unreal" State Paying $700,000 to Sponsor NASCAR Race

The Illinoize

Patrick Pfingsten

03/15/2022

“But Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet), the top Republican budget negotiator, says Pritzker should be using state funds to roll back the state motor fuel tax or the gasoline sales tax to provide consumers relief as gas prices continue to tick near $5 per gallon.”

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-13-22

Champaign News-Gazette

Issue: Singling out Champaign County when it comes to county executive appointments

 

Sen. Craig Wilcox

3-14-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Lake Michigan pollution

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-14-22

Daily Herald

Issue: Lake Michigan pollution

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-13-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Tri-City Health Partnership

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-14-22

WIRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: “SPC. Brandon Rowe Memorial Highway”

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-11-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Illinois unemployment insurance fund

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-15-22

Illinois Business Journal

Issue: Renovations at Lewis and Clark College

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-14-22

Alton Telegraph

Issue: Renovations at Lewis and Clark College

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-14-22

EdGlen Today

Issue: Renovations at Lewis and Clark College

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-14-22

Starvedrock Media (6 other sources)

Issue: Illinois Unemployment Trust Fund debt

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-15-22

Illinois Business Journal

Issue: Hispanic American Construction Industry Association opposes union-backed wage theft legislation

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-15-22

Edwardsville Intelligencer (1 other source)

Issue: Renovations at Lewis and Clark College

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-15-22

State Journal Register

Issue: Allowing DCFS workers to carry pepper spray

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-16-22

WLDS/WEAI Radio (Jacksonville)

Issue: Capital projects for Lewis and Clark Community College

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-15-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Downsizing of Pontiac and Vandalia Correctional Centers

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-16-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet

 

HEADLINES FOR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16^TH

104.9 WFIW

03/16/2022

“More than 100 people attended the Second Amendment Town Hall Meeting in Carmi Monday. State Senator Darren Bailey spoke on several issues, including the FOID Card, which he continues to call unconstitutional. He called on people to be active in calling lawmakers and filling witness slips in support or opposition of bills in committee.”

 

Job market continues to recover from pandemic, IDES head tells lawmakers

The Daily Line

Ben Szalinski

03/16/2022

“While progress is being made to address the department’s staffing needs, Richards said they are still working to identify how many people were victims of unemployment fraud. When pressed by Sen. Craig Wilcox (R-McHenry), Richards declined to elaborate on how much of the pandemic fraud at IDES involved identity theft.”

 

Pension spiking costs continue to hit Illinois taxpayers

The Center Square

Brett Rowland

03/18/2022

“State Sen. Craig Wilcox, R-McHenry, said some local taxpayers probably aren't aware of how school districts are spending tax dollars. The majority of school district funding in Illinois comes from local property taxes. Most national analyses show Illinois residents pay, on average, the second highest property taxes in the U.S., behind only New Jersey.”

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-19-22

WIRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: SPC Brandon Jacob Rowe Memorial Highway.

 

Sen. Steve McClure

3-18-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: DCFS workers carrying pepper spray

 

Sen. Win Stoller

3-20-22

Champaign News-Gazette

Issue: Unemployment Insurance Fund debt

Emergency Powers

Turner Renews Call to Rein in Pritzker’s Abuse of Emergency Powers

Cities 92.9

Tom Davis

03/09/2022

“As the two-year anniversary approaches of Governor JB Pritzker’s first disaster declaration in response to COVID-19, State Senator Sally Turner (R-Beason) is renewing her call to rein in the Governor’s ability to impose sweeping emergency powers and require legislative input and oversight. Since the Governor’s first declaration on March 9, 2020, he has re-issued his disaster declaration approximately every 30 days as a “work around” to the 30-day limit on declared disasters imposed by the Emergency Management Agency Act.”

 

State Senator Calls For Lawmakers to Rein In Emergency Powers

WSPY NEWS

Staff

03/10/2022

“Morris State Senator Sue Rezin is calling for a bill that would impose limits on Governor J.B. Pritzker's emergency powers. Rezin says the governor has been using a work around to impose the emergency declaration since the COVID-19 disaster order was first declared on March 9 of 2020.”

 

Senator Rezin Trying To "Reign In" Governor Pritzker

103.9 WLPO News

Jeremy Aitken

03/09/2022

“Republican State Senator Sue Rezin thinks the Democrat governor has failed you and is aiming to rein in what she call's Pritzker's “abuse of emergency powers”. Rezin is co-sponsoring a proposed bill that would require the governor to get approval from the General Assembly before renewing emergency powers after the initial 30-day state of emergency declaration. Extending a state mask mandate would be a prime example.”

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-9-22

WRPW Radio (Bloomington/Normal)

Issue: Pritzker abuse of emergency powers

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-9-22

Starvedrock Media (Regional radio station group in her district)

Issue: Pritzker abuse of emergency powers

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-9-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: Governor’s emergency powers

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-9-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: Governor’s emergency powers

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-9-22

WCSJ Radio (Morris) (2 other sources)

Issue: Governor’s emergency powers

Interviews/Op-eds

NEWSRADIO WJPF INTERVIEW WITH TERRI BRYANT | MARCH 7, 2022

WJPF Radio

Staff

03/07/2022

“Illinois State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) joins The Morning Newswatch.”

Gas Prices

Gas prices on the table as Illinois lawmakers discuss options for lowering costs

State Journal-Register

Andrew Adams

03/11/2022

“Syverson and Sen. Donald DeWitte, R-St. Charles, introduced a plan to limit the taxes charged on sales of gasoline.”

 

“So far, only Republicans and business groups have come out in support of the plan, though every Republican in the Senate has signed on as a co-sponsor, including Springfield Sens. Steve McClure and Sally Turner as well as Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods.”

 

Lawmakers want to cap Illinois sales tax on fuel

FOX Illinois

WICS/WRSP Staff

03/10/2022

‘“This plan will ensure that critically-needed projects are still properly funded while also providing relief for the people of our state who are currently experiencing generational high inflation,” said Senator Sally Turner, R-Beason. “Illinois lawmakers must act quickly to pass this legislation, so our constituents can have some level of reprieve before the situation gets too out of hand.”’

 

‘"If we do nothing consumers are going to be devastated by this increase in tax these increased revenues just become a windfall for politicians and the government we don't believe that that's fair," said Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Rockford.’

 

‘“The government shouldn’t gouge you at the same time the price at the pump goes through the roof,” said Senator Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet.’

 

Republicans look to save Illinois drivers $1 billion at the pump by capping sales tax

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/10/2022

“State Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Cherry Valley, said their measure differs from the governor’s proposal to freeze the annual gas tax in several ways. The governor’s plan could save taxpayers about $135 million while the GOP plan could save taxpayers around $1 billion.”

 

“State Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mohamet, said state government is already reaping increased revenue because of record inflation.”

 

“State Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, said that’s unrealistic for families struggling to make ends meet now.”

 

Proposed legislation would cap state sales tax on fuel

WAND News

Staff

03/10/2022

“Senate Bill 4195, would cap the state's sales tax on motor fuel at last year's level, because gas prices rose. State Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) released a statement on Thursday that explained the bill could potentially save drivers $1 billion over the next fiscal year if gas prices reach $5.50 per gallon.”

 

Electric vehicles out of reach for some as mechanics, builders expect higher costs

The Center Square, The Fairfield Sun Times

Greg Bishop

03/11/2022

“State Sen. Neil Anderson, R-Andalusia, said the governor is out of touch with what’s happening on the ground.”

 

New Proposal For Helping Gas Prices

Taylorville Daily News

Leroy M Kleimola

03/12/2022

“State Senator Chapin Rose is sponsoring legislation to provide permanent tax relief to families at the gas pump. Senator Rose says gas prices are out of control and while he can’t control what barrel’s of oil sells for, he believes that politicians should stop trying to benefit off of price spikes.”

 

Republican lawmakers propose capping Illinois' fuel tax amid surging prices

13 WREX Newsroom

Staff

03/10/2022

“Senators Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) and Donald DeWitte (R-St. Charles) held a news conference at the Capitol on Thursday to call on the General Assembly and the Pritzker Administration to immediately cap the state’s sales tax on motor fuel at 18 cents per gallon, which is what drivers were paying last fall before prices started to climb dramatically.”

 

Rose Sponsors Legislation To Provide Relief At The Pump

Effingham Radio

Staff

03/13/2022

“As gas prices continue to skyrocket out of control, State Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) is sponsoring legislation to provide permanent tax relief to families at the pump.”

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-10-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-10-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-10-22

HomeTownRegister (regional newspaper/west central Illinois) (7 other sources)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

KWQC-TV (Quad Cities) (3 other sources)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-10-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-10-22

WTWO-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-10-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-11-22

KWQC-TV (Quad Cities) (3 other sources)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-10-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Don DeWitte

3-10-22

WTWO-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Neil Anderson

3-11-22

KWQC-TV (Quad Cities) (3 other sources)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Sally Turner

3-10-22

WICD-TV (Champaign)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WTVO-TV (Rockford) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WREX-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-11-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

Sen. Dave Syverson

3-10-22

WQRF-TV (Rockford)

Issue: Capping sales tax on motor fuel

 

GOP senators push to freeze gas tax ‘windfall’ as alternative energy bills wind through legislature

The Daily Line

Alex Nitkin

03/11/2022

“Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) and Sen. Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) led a news conference on Thursday to unveil a plan to permanently cap the state’s percentage-based sales tax on gasoline so that it can never pull in more than $0.18 per gallon on any purchase. They predicted the change would save Illinois drivers hundreds of millions of dollars, especially if prices keep climbing.”

 

‘“This is truly a windfall for the state of Illinois,” Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) said. “No one…expected this money. The state is gouging people at the pump on this. We need to give them their money back.”’

Prisoner Review Board

Appointments pulled for 2 members of Prisoner Review Board

Capitol News Illinois

BETH HUNDSDORFER

03/08/2022

‘“Between the two of them, I think they have served a combined six years on the Prisoner Review Board, raking in approximately a half-million dollars in taxpayer funded salary,” said Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville.’

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-8-22

Effingham Daily News (4 other sources)

Issue: Abuse of the PRB appointment process

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-9-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-9-22

Kankakee Daily Journal (1 other source)

Issue: PRB appointees

 

Sen. Jason Plummer

3-11-22

WIND Radio (Chicago)

Issue: Abuse of the Executive Appointments process

 

Republicans critical of Pritzker’s prisoner review board maneuvering

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

02/09/2022

“After the hearing, state Sen. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, said that excuse doesn’t cut it with dozens of other people having gone through the process for other positions.”

Public Safety

Wives of fallen Illinois officers call for passage of public safety bills

Quad-City Times

TAYLOR VIDMAR

03/09/2022

“They were accompanied by state Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, who filed and sponsored all seven bills.”

 

Security is main issue with transfer of inmates to Lawrence

Pontiac Daily Leader

Erich Murphy

03/08/2022

“State Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, said that she didn't get the answers for the transfers that she was looking for when she, and other legislators, met with Jeffreys last week.”

 

Sen. Terri Bryant

3-8-22

Pontiac Daily Leader

Issue: Downsizing Pontiac and Vandalia CC

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-9-22

WAND-TV (Decatur)

Issue: Wives of fallen police officers

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-9-22

WIFR-TV (Rockford) (3 other sources)

Issue: Wives of fallen police officers

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-9-22

Southern Illinoisan (1 other source)

Issue: Wives of fallen police officers

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-10-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Senate GOP Crime package

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-10-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: Senate GOP Crime package

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-9-22

WRSP-TV (Springfield) (multiple newscasts)

Issue: Senate GOP Crime package

 

Sen. Chapin Rose

3-9-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: Wives of fallen police officers

Veterans Affairs

Rezin Again Pushes for Bills Meant to Prevent Outbreaks at State Veterans Home

WSPY News

Ethan Kruger

03/10/2022

“Morris State Senator Sue Rezin is again advocating for a set of bills meant to protect state run veterans homes from disease outbreaks.”

 

Rezin continues to push outbreak protections for vets homes

WGEM

Mike Miletich

03/10/2022

“Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) filed three proposals last year to hold the state accountable for the 36 deaths and help prepare for future outbreaks.”

 

Legislation would address outbreak protocol lapses senator says still exist at veterans homes

The Center Square

Kevin Bessler

03/10/2022

“State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said she does not want to see a repeat of the tragedy at the LaSalle Veterans Home where 36 residents died during a COVID-19 outbreak beginning in November 2020.”

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

Quincy Herald-Whig (22 other sources)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

Quad-City Times

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WFLD-TV (Chicago)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

Starvedrock Media (regional radio station group)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

Ogle County Newspapers

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WYZZ-TV (Peoria)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WCMY Radio (Ottawa)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WSPY Radio (Aurora)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-11-22

WGEM-TV (Quincy) (multiple newscasts) (1 other source)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WEEK-TV (Peoria)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Sen. Sue Rezin

3-10-22

WHOI-TV (Peoria) (2 other sources)

Issue: LaSalle Veterans’ Home failures/Rezin reform legislation

 

Eye On Illinois: Past time to get serious about public health crisis reforms

By Scott T. Holland

03/12/2022

“State Sen. Sue Rezin didn’t need to use that phrase to make her point crystal clear. During a press conference Thursday, the veteran Morris Republican again stressed the importance of examining exactly what went wrong at the La Salle Veterans Home in fall 2020, where a COVID-19 outbreak led to hundreds of positive tests and 36 resident fatalities.”

MISC.

News Release says Winnebago County Republican Executive Committee condemns no confidence letter against Chairman. Others on Executive Committee disagree.

23 WIFR

Mike Garrigan

03/09/2022

“The no confidence letter lists nine issues; ranging from not utilizing the committee headquarters for 12 months despite paying rent, to the mishandling of checks and deposits from the committee account. In the news release Nicolosi says he has the full support of the executive committee; and the anonymous no confidence letter wouldn’t have been written if he wasn’t running for the 35th District State Senate seat against longtime incumbant Dave Syverson. But executive committee member Jan Klaas disputes Nicolosi’s claims.”

 

Pritzker administration should investigate ghost networks, continuity of care disruptions, Sen. Turner says

My Stateline

Mark Maxwell

03/13/2022

“State Senator Sally Turner, a Republican from Lincoln, called on the Department of Insurance to investigate Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois after a Target 3 report revealed its customers were left with astronomical medical bills, or were left to navigate a ‘ghost network’ of doctors in a dead-end directory.”

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-9-22

Southern Illinoisan

Issue: React to Sen. Cullerton guilty plea for corruption

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-8-22

EdGlen Today (Edwardsville-Glen Carbon)

Issue: Judicial redistricting lawsuit

 

Sen. Dan McConchie

3-8-22

Chicago Tribune

Issue: React to Sen. Cullerton guilty plea for corruption

 

After two years of COVID executive orders, calls for oversight persist in Illinois

The Center Square

Greg Bishop

03/09/2022

“State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said the effects of the governor’s unilateral rule and lack of oversight over the past two years has been painful. Other states had fewer restrictions and are thriving, she said.”

 

Illinois lawmakers advance pension buyout extension fueled by $1B of bonding

The Bond Buyer

Yvette Shields

03/10/2022

“Rep. Win Stoller, R-Germantown Hills, who was the sole committee vote against the legislation, said ‘in a state that is not in the best financial condition taking on debt is not something I’m comfortable with.’”

 

Bill protecting family visits to nursing homes wins overwhelming support

The Center Square contributor

Zeta Cross

03/12/2022

“The visitation prohibitions frustrated relatives and friends who were kept away from loved ones at nursing homes and long-term care facilities for weeks and even months. To prevent future Illinois governors from ever enacting such a ban again, Illinois Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, drafted Senate Bill 1405. The measure passed the Illinois Senate unanimously last month and is expected to pass the Illinois House this spring.”

 

“State Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Cherry Valley, a co-sponsor of the bill, said the ban defied common sense – even when the pandemic was raging and vaccines were not available.”

 

Republican senator urges bills preventing future health outbreaks get a proper hearing

Capitol News Illinois

GRACE KINNICUTT

03/10/2022

“Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, reintroduced legislation to improve and hasten the state’s response to the outbreak, but on Thursday called for more help from lawmakers to advance the bills which remain in the Assignments Committee.”