Peoria Standard

Illinois House Republicans are advancing a series of legislative measures aimed at improving the lives of seniors. Representatives Ryan Spain, Jeff Keicher, and Kevin Schmidt have introduced bills addressing issues such as healthcare, housing, financial stability, and driver safety for older adults.

Rep. Ryan Spain has been a vocal advocate for property tax relief, increased transportation access, safeguarding retirement benefits, and protecting against exploitation. “Our seniors have given so much to our communities, and it’s our duty to ensure they’re protected and supported,” said Rep. Spain.

Rep. Jeff Keicher emphasized the need for resources and support for older drivers in Illinois. “Seniors deserve to live with the respect and dignity they’ve earned,” he stated.

Rep. Kevin Schmidt has sponsored legislation focused on reducing property taxes, lowering grocery costs, protecting retirement income, and combating financial exploitation. “Supporting our seniors isn’t just about policy—it’s about recognizing their invaluable contributions,” said Rep. Schmidt.

The legislators have also shown strong support for HR 24, opposing any taxation on retirement income to ease financial burdens on seniors.

In economic development news, Rep. Spain's bill aimed at revitalizing blighted communities has been signed into law by the Governor. Senate Bill 2936 expands property tax abatement processes to include remodeling projects in areas experiencing urban decay. “This legislation presents an opportunity to spur economic development,” said Spain.

At-Large Peoria City Councilman John Kelly commended the bill's potential impact on home ownership in challenged neighborhoods: “The incentives of this bill go directly to homeowners.”

Regarding privacy laws, the General Assembly made modifications to the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The changes address some job-threatening features but leave many aspects intact that allow for large lawsuits against businesses collecting biometric data without explicit permission from individuals.

Despite these changes being seen as insufficient by some House Republicans who preferred more comprehensive reforms like HB 2335 and HB 5635 proposed by Rep. Keicher, SB 2979 was signed into law in August 2024.

On energy matters, the proposed "Grain Belt Express" high-voltage transmission line faces uncertainty following a decision by the Illinois appellate court stating that developers have not yet proven their financing or customer base sufficiently to gain construction rights over private properties.

In environmental news, State Representative Brandun Schweizer filed HB 5870 to ban carbon sequestration activities around federally designated Sole Source Aquifers like the Mahomet Aquifer due to concerns over drinking water contamination risks posed by recently signed SB 1289.

Lastly, several Illinois school districts have adopted new policies restricting student cellphone use within classrooms for the upcoming school year to reduce distractions among students diagnosed with attention-span conditions like ADHD.