Yesterday, I met with concerned residents in Freeburg to provide legislative updates during a taxpayers organization meeting. We discussed the FY26 budget, legislative updates, and how politics affects everyone in our community. The $55.2 billion budget passed at 1:30 in the morning Sunday with $1 billion in new taxes for Illinois residents, plus more pay raises for politicians, which is why I voted no.
I understand working families are struggling and the cost of living seems to keep getting higher and the budget does not reflect the needs of Illinois citizens who need relief. Talking with my constituents and hearing their voice, helps me better understand their concerns and how legislation impacts their daily lives. I appreciate everyone who joined the meeting and I will continue to work hard to support legislation that benefits all families in the 114th district.
The Good News!
Mascot Legislation– Both these bills died in the Senate and will save property taxes from being increased even more.
HB3527: Requires schools to ban discriminatory disability mascots. This bill directly impacts the Freeburg Midgets.
HB1237: A school board shall prohibit a school from using a native name, logo, or mascot.
Schmidt’s Legislation that Improves Community Integrated Living Arrangements Passes Both Houses
Springfield…State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) wants to see Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILA) up to par with other facilities in the state. Rep. Schmidt filed House Bill 57 to include CILAs to the Essential Support Person Act, passed in 2023. Rep Schimdt said the purpose of his bill is to ensure residents in CILAs have the same visitation rights for essential support persons as other facilities…read more.