Remembering Former-Governor Jim Edgar
Jim Edgar, 38th Governor of Illinois from 1991-1999, died on September 14, 2025, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. I had the privilege of being a part of his 2019 Edgar Fellow leadership program, and it was an honor to participate in the program that stressed bipartisanship and civility in the lawmaking process.
Edgar, 79, was a titan of Illinois and Republican politics who dedicated his life to public service. He is heralded for many notable achievements. Tackling the state budget deficit, reforms in education, welfare, child protection, and strong leadership during the Great Flood of 1993 are part of his enduring public service legacy.
Beginning as a legislative intern for the Illinois General Assembly, Edgar worked his way through the state government as an Illinois State Representative and Illinois Secretary of State prior to becoming Governor in 1990.
Visitation services honoring the former governor were held on Friday, September 19, at the Illinois State Capitol, followed by memorial services on Saturday.
Fall Events in Full Swing in 33rd District
I had another successful Senior Fair last week and appreciate everyone who came out to St. Charles to take advantage of the resources that were available. Additional events are in the final planning stages, so mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
- September 27: FREE Document Shredding Event, Carillon at Cambridge Lakes, 1865 Andrew Blvd, Pingree Grove, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- September 29: Fall/Winter Coat Drive, New or gently-used coats will be collected through October 13 to be distributed to families in crisis in Kane and McHenry Counties
- October 4: FREE Document Shredding Event, Elburn Town & Country Library, 320 E North Street, Elburn, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- October 14: Senior Fair in Crystal Lake, Grand Oaks Recreation Building 1401 IL-176, 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
New events are added to the calendar regularly. You can remain up to date about upcoming events by visiting the Events page on my website.
DeWitte Joins Senate Colleagues at IL Chamber of Commerce Event
I was happy to join Senate Colleagues Leader John Curran, and Senators Li Arellano and Darby Hills for the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Annual meeting at the Chicago Hilton and Towers last week.
The IL Chamber is the independent voice of Illinois businesses. It advocates for policies that foster a competitive business climate for all sectors in the state. The Chamber has goals that include promoting economic growth, being pro-business, pro-growth, pro-Illinois, and ensuring free enterprise, markets that work, and integrity in its advocacy.
Congratulations to President Lou Sandoval and his entire team for a great event promoting business and growth across Illinois.
Harvest Season Safety: Watch for Farm Equipment and Fire Risks
As harvest season moves into full swing, farmers across Illinois are back in the fields working long hours to bring in their crops. With more large equipment on the move, drivers are reminded to use extra caution on rural roads. Slow-moving tractors and combines are common this time of year, and a little patience goes a long way in keeping everyone safe.
According to a University of Illinois-Chicago study, from 2018 to 2023, an average of nearly 530 crashes per year involving agricultural vehicles were reported as taking place on Illinois roadways.
Harvest season is a time to recognize the hard work of our farmers, but also a moment to increase caution on rural roads. I would urge motorists to slow down, give large equipment plenty of space, and for farmers to use visible lights and signals so everyone can stay safe during this harvest season.
DeWitte Attends Leadership Roundtable Event at Sherman Hospital
Last week I had the honor of attending Sherman Hospital’s Community Breakfast and Leadership Roundable event. My deepest thanks go out to Sheri DeShazo and her top-notch staff for hosting this informational gathering. We discussed hospital goals, accomplishments and legislative needs. It is a pleasure to work alongside so many outstanding local officials!
Limited Time, Eliminate Tax Debt and Pay Zero Interest
The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is offering Illinois taxpayers reprieve this fall.
Those with outstanding tax liabilities from qualifying dates will get late penalties and interest forgiven. Penalties and interest on unpaid taxes from the period between June 30, 2018, and July 1, 2024, are eligible for the amnesty.
Eligible tax liabilities and returns must be paid and filed in full between October 1 and November 17 to qualify for the waiver of penalty and interest. IDOR does not collect property taxes. Estate, franchise, and insurance taxes also do not fall under IDOR and do not qualify for forgiveness. Illinois taxpayers have the right to appeal IDOR decisions.
IDOR’s last tax amnesty was in October and November of 2019. No future amnesty periods are currently planned in the Illinois Tax Delinquency Amnesty Act. Amendments to the act with additional dates require action from the Illinois General Assembly.
Visit tax.illinois.gov/taxamnesty for full instructions and further resources.