East Central Reporter

State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) has introduced a series of bills in the Illinois House aimed at addressing energy costs and reliability across the state. The proposed legislation targets what Halbrook describes as an ongoing energy crisis, with measures focused on lowering utility bills and ensuring consistent power supply.

The legislative package includes four bills:

- HB 4121, titled ‘The End the Energy Tax Act,’ would remove all state-mandated taxes, surcharges, and subsidy fees from electric bills.

- HB 4122, known as the ‘Fast-Track Nuclear Now Act,’ seeks to speed up approval and construction of new nuclear facilities in Illinois.

- HB 4123, or the ‘Save Our Power Plants Act,’ proposes extending operations for coal and natural gas plants scheduled for closure under current law by 15 years.

- HB 4124, called the ‘Uncap Affordable Power Act,’ aims to eliminate emissions caps on natural gas and electrical generation.

“Since before CEJA was signed into law, I have been a staunch opponent of Democrats’ push to move Illinois to carbon-free energy sources,” said Rep. Halbrook. “The policies have been poorly thought out and unworkable, placing political agendas ahead of reliability and affordability. Energy is not a luxury, but with the constantly rising prices, it is being treated as one, which is why I filed this legislation to make utilities affordable again.”

Halbrook criticized current energy policies for limiting carbon-emitting sources without clear alternatives. He referenced recent rate increases reported by Ameren following results from the Midcontinental Independent System Operator (MISO) capacity auction. Between May 2024 and May 2025, rates per Megawatt-day increased significantly—from $30 to $666.50—leading to higher consumer costs over the summer.

“In early May, my colleagues and I formally called on Democrat leaders to hold hearings on the emerging crisis. They ignored our request. Now, months later, families are drowning in high bills—and the majority is just beginning to ask questions they should have answered long ago,” Halbrook said. “House Energy and Environment Committee Chairwoman Ammons says she was waiting to hear from constituents before taking action. Well, we heard from constituents months ago—and we responded with a call for hearings and a plan. Now that prices have exploded, they’re finally hosting a town hall. But Illinois families don’t need a public forum—they need real reform. That’s what my bill package delivers.”

Halbrook was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 107th House District in 2023 after succeeding Blaine Wilhour.

The four bills are currently under review in the Rules Committee. Updates can be tracked at ilga.gov.