Welcome to my February newsletter.
FIGHTING FOR YOU!
Monthly Daily Journal Column
I have had the pleasure of writing a column for the Daily Journal once per month during my term. This month’s column focuses on ethics reform. You can read the full article here!
Budget
This year’s budget address was disappointing as it is again far from balanced with a deficit of $775 million for FY25. Instead of proposing cuts to address this deficit, we are seeing increased spending for programs we simply cannot afford. At a time when Illinois citizens are being forced to practice strict budgeting practices due to the current state of our economy, we should be doing the same.
New Bill Alert
A new bill proposed by Democrats would force the Illinois EPA to adopt California emission standards for trucks and surrender state sovereignty to California bureaucrats instead of Illinois lawmakers.
Around the District & Under the Dome:
Happy 75th Birthday Park Forest!
What a wonderful celebration, congratulations!
Valentines For Veterans
Thank you to everyone who made Valentine’s Day cards for my fourth annual Valentine’s for Vets drive!
These cards will bring so much joy to our veterans at Manteno Veteran’s Home this year. I am so proud of our community for coming together to help make Valentine’s Day special for so many who deserve it most! 
IAPD Legislative Breakfast
Thank you to the Illinois Association of Park Districts for the great legislative breakfast. It was great to see representatives from so many park districts in the 79th District! Also thank you to the Tinley Park – Park District for hosting the event this morning!
Rosecrance Ribbon Cutting
Thank you to my staff for attending the ribbon-cutting at the new Kankakee site for Rosecrance while I was in Springfield! Welcome to the neighborhood!
Will County Board Breakfast
I had a wonderful time catching up with friends and colleagues at the Will County Board annual legislative meet and greet breakfast! Thank you to the Will County Board for hosting this event!
Other Happenings:
Sheriffs Association Scholarships
The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is awarding college scholarships throughout Illinois to students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2024-25 academic year. Applications are due by March 15. More Here
Estate Tax Legislation
The Family Farm Preservation Act is a step forward toward keeping family farms in families when facing Illinois’ burdensome death tax. More Here
Illinois Soybean Association
The Illinois Soybean Association is seeking nominations for standout young farmers for the Illinois 20 Under 40 Awards. Sound like someone you know? Nominate them by March 31. More Here
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
Winter Traveling Office Hours
Park Forest – Park Forest Public Library (400 Lakewood Blvd.)- These hours are paused for winter.
Monee – Monee Village Hall (5130 W. Court St.) every Second Wednesday, 9 AM – 12 PM