Senate Republicans Push for Affordability Ahead of Governor’s Budget Address
As Governor JB Pritzker prepares to deliver his annual budget address on Wednesday of this week, my Senate Republican colleagues and I are urging him to focus on affordability for Illinois families and a responsible, sustainable budget that does not raise taxes or fees. Families are already struggling with the rising cost of living. The last thing working people need is a budget that expands government while piling on higher costs.
Our push and renewed call to improve affordability comes after Democratic lawmakers approved a budget last year that was the largest spending plan in Illinois history. That budget, which included zero Republican votes, included nearly $1 billion in new tax increases and relied heavily on budget gimmicks and one-time revenue sources.
The more than $55 billion spending plan represented nearly a $15 billion increase in state spending, almost a 40 percent rise, since Governor Pritzker took office. Our caucus opposed the plan, pointing to record spending, misplaced priorities, a lack of transparency, and a growing financial burden on families and businesses.
With the governor set to outline his next budget proposal, I am calling for relief for Illinois citizens. Governor Pritzker needs to rein in spending growth, provide real relief for working families, and commit to a budget that prioritizes taxpayers, families, and businesses, without any new or increased taxes.
The governor is set to give the annual address before members of the General Assembly next Wednesday, February 18, at noon.
Senator DeWitte Co-Sponsors Bill to Protect Senior Property Tax Relief from Inflation
In an effort to protect seniors from rising costs, this year I am proud to co-sponsor legislation to ensure Illinois’ low-income senior citizens assessment freeze keeps pace with inflation.
Senate Bill 4029 would automatically adjust the income eligibility cap for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption based on inflation beginning in tax year 2029. By tying the income threshold to the Consumer Price Index, this measure prevents seniors from losing eligibility due to cost-of-living increases.
During the fall veto session, I supported successful legislation that increased the income caps for the senior assessment freeze. Under the new law, the income cap for the senior assessment freeze is set at $75,000 for tax year 2026, $77,000 for 2027, and $79,000 beginning in 2028. SB 4029 would ensure that starting in 2029, the income threshold automatically adjusts each year based on inflation, preventing seniors from losing eligibility as everyday costs continue to rise.
Senate Bill 4029 is currently awaiting assignment to a Senate committee.
Free Tax Filing Assistance Offered Through Community Programs
Several programs across Illinois are offering free income tax preparation assistance for low-to-moderate income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities ahead of the April filing deadline. The services provide basic state and federal return preparation and electronic filing guidance.
Programs providing assistance include: the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs, the AARP Tax-Aide Program, Ladder Up Tax Assistance, and the GetYourRefund Program. Eligibility and services vary by program.
These programs provide a useful service by helping eligible residents file accurate returns and understand available credits and deductions. I encourage taxpayers who qualify to review their options and use trusted assistance sites if they need help.
Taxpayers can learn more through the Illinois Department of Revenue website or by contacting the taxpayer assistance hotline at 800-732-8866.