East Central Reporter

Last week, the Democrats in Springfield reportedly cut short the session and slowed down the debate of bills on the House floor. Despite this, committee work continued with evaluations of more Senate bills, some lingering House bills, and amendments.

A significant bill discussed in the committee was SB3235. This race-based bill mandates the state to identify regions with disparities in banking, lending, financial investment services, and more as it relates to protected classes in the Human Rights Act. However, according to reports, bill sponsors were unable to answer questions regarding the cost of the study, who would conduct it, and how findings would be used.

The budget discussions are set to continue this week among Democrat leaders while Republicans and rank-and-file Democrats reportedly remain uninformed.

State Rep. Chris Miller voiced concerns over Illinois' current financial situation stating that "the only population growth that we’re seeing in Illinois currently is the growth of illegal immigrants that are draining tax dollars while Illinois citizens struggle to pay their bills."

According to The Center Square, Deputy Gov. Andy Manar has asked state agency directors to prepare for $800 million less in available revenue due to significant opposition to proposed revenue.

Despite an expected adjournment on May 24th, little progress has been seen in the General Assembly. Last year's pattern of passing a massive budget at 3:00 a.m. is anticipated again this year.

Illinois residents have reportedly been promised transparency from Governor Pritzker and his team but have instead been met with what critics call deception. It is predicted that Democrats will introduce $1 billion more in taxes along with benefits for illegal immigrants and political games related to election interference.

As electric vehicle (EV) companies continue facing financial difficulties due to EV experimentation, government subsidies continue rolling out for 'green energy' transition. Governor Pritzker has also invested millions of taxpayer dollars into this initiative despite its reported losses.

In other news, The House Appropriations Higher Education Committee spent three and a half hours discussing a new funding program that proposes to distribute money to universities based on the demographics of the student population. The 89-page report indicates that funds would be allocated based on the race of the student.

Lastly, Illinois is set to host mass demonstrations around the Democrat National Convention in August, with pro-Palestinian organizers planning to mobilize what they claim will be "the largest mobilization for Palestine" in Chicago's history.