Peoria Standard

State Representative Ryan Spain is organizing his second annual Veterans Resources Fair on December 2 at the Bureau County Metro Center in Princeton. The event aims to provide veterans with guides, literature, and resources from various organizations and government agencies. A door prize raffle will also be part of the fair. Spain's office staff will assist constituents with state government issues during the event.

In addition to the fair, Rep. Spain has launched his 7th Annual Holiday Diaper Drive to support local families in need. Donations of diapers, baby wipes, and diaper cream are being accepted until December 11. Contributions can be delivered in person or shipped directly to Spain’s Peoria office or made through an Amazon wish list.

Meanwhile, Illinois House Republicans have criticized the Pritzker Administration for a projected $3.2 billion budget deficit for FY26. They attribute this shortfall to irresponsible budgeting by the supermajority, which relied on temporary federal funds and tax hikes without sustainable financial planning. House Minority Leader Tony McCombie emphasized the need for transparency in addressing these budget challenges.

The trial involving Mike McClain and former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan continues in federal court in Chicago, with allegations of influence peddling against them. Testimonies and evidence presented include McClain's "magic lobbyist list," highlighting connections between lobbyists and Madigan's influence.

The Illinois General Assembly concluded its veto session with little legislative action, postponing controversial proposals to January's lame-duck session. House Minority Leader Tony McCombie called for bipartisan legislation focused on issues important to Illinois families.

Concerns about drug exposures in Illinois Department of Corrections facilities were raised by Republican lawmakers Charlie Meier, David Friess, and Bill Hauter. They called for a hearing to address these issues and questioned Acting Director Latoya Hughes' commitment to resolving them.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul has appealed a federal ruling that struck down Illinois' firearms ban as unconstitutional. The appeal seeks to maintain the Protect Illinois Communities Act while awaiting further judicial review.

Illinois’ unemployment rate remained at 5.3% in October 2024 according to preliminary figures from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). This rate is higher than the national average of 4.1%, indicating stagnation in job growth within the state.

Amendments to the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) have been upheld by a federal court, potentially saving jobs from moving out of Illinois due to aggressive lawsuits over electronic sign-ins.

Finally, firearm deer hunting season will resume from December 5 through 8 across Illinois with specific regulations regarding weapon use and clothing requirements for hunters.