Republicans Committed to Advancing Legislative Agenda to Help Illinoisans
As lawmakers return to the Capitol this week for the first time since the January 8 Inauguration of the 104th General Assembly, I’m calling upon their legislative colleagues to advance a bipartisan agenda that prioritizes fiscal responsibility, public safety, and support for struggling Illinois families.
The start of the new General Assembly and the second term of the Trump Administration provides an opportunity to move past political divisions and focus on delivering meaningful solutions to the challenges facing Illinois.
As we work to address the state’s projected $3 billion budget deficit, bipartisan cooperation will be essential to ensure that policies are put in place that foster prosperity for Illinois families, promote economic growth, and enhance public safety.
Just One and a Half Weeks Remaining in Valentines for Seniors Program
The February 7 deadline for participation in my 5th annual “Valentines for Seniors” card drive is quickly approaching. We have received some really cute cards and drawings, but we need more submissions if we are to match last year’s numbers. Won’t you help put a smile on the face of a local senior?
Cards and drawings can be mailed to or dropped off at my district offices in West Dundee and St. Charles between now and February 7. My office staff and I will personally deliver the cards and drawings on your behalf the week of Valentines Day.
Valentines can be dropped off or mailed to:
West Dundee Office
641 S. 8th St.
West Dundee, IL 60118
St. Charles Office
406 Surrey Woods Drive, Suite A
St. Charles, IL 60174
If you are interested in participating or have any questions, please contact Abby at amccarthy@sgop.ilga.gov.
Senator DeWitte: Out and About in the 33rd District
This is the time of year when I get to spend time with the local Council of Government organizations to learn about the legislative agendas of the member cities and villages. My thanks go out to Mayor Haig Haleblian of Crystal Lake for hosting the McHenry County Council of Government at the beautiful Dole mansion last week. My thanks also go out to Elgin Community College President Peggy Heinrich and Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain for hosting the Metro West Council of Government at ECC for their annual legislative breakfast.
Get Connected: Participate in a Broadband Breakthrough Program
Local leaders across Illinois are encouraged to participate in the Broadband Breakthrough program led by the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society and the Illinois Broadband Lab. This initiative provides the tools, data, and knowledge needed to secure funding and build strong broadband partnerships. As the state prepares for the BEAD-Funded Connect Illinois Round 4, the program boosts counties’ ability to become strategic and supportive partners in broadband expansion efforts.
Applications for the Broadband Breakthrough program are open until January 31, on a first-come, first-served basis. The Illinois Office of Broadband is offering a series of webinars covering topics such as data-driven storytelling, digital literacy, and digital equity. These resources aim to assist in securing funding and promoting digital equity across the state.
For more information and to register for webinars, contact Reid Sharkey at reid@benton.org or visit the Illinois Office of Broadband’s website. View previous webinars here.
Kickstart 2025 Taxes Today
The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) will begin accepting 2025 income tax returns on January 27, coinciding with the IRS’s start date for federal tax filings. This year, eligible taxpayers can file their federal returns for free using the IRS Direct File program, which will then link to Illinois’ MyTax Illinois system to file state taxes at no cost.
Expertsencourage taxpayers to file early and choose direct deposit for faster refunds. Filing electronically and opting for direct deposit ensures the quickest processing. The tax deadline is April 15, with a six-month extension option available.
Additionally, taxpayers can apply for the Illinois Child Tax Credit, which increases to 40% of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for 2025. The Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit has also been expanded to include more emergency service volunteers.
IDOR continues to combat fraud, preventing over $145 million in fraudulent refunds last year.
Taxpayers can receive assistance by calling IDOR’s helpline at 1-800-732-8866 or visiting tax.illinois.gov.
Protecting Illinois Families: GOP Opposes Legalizing Prostitution
Believe it or not, legislation has been filed by a Senate and House Democrat to legalize prostitution in the State of Illinois. I think it is just one more example of the growing disconnect between Democrat lawmakers and the everyday challenges families face. Unsurprisingly, the proposal has ignited an intense debate. Personally, I stand with families that embrace traditional values and will fiercely oppose this legislation if it is brought to the Senate floor.
As frustration grows among families across the state over what they see as misplaced priorities from Democrat lawmakers, many are calling for leadership to address pressing challenges, such as affordability and safety, rather than pursuing radical experiments.
I think we should be focusing on policies that directly improve the lives of Illinois residents and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote strong families and safer communities.
If passed and signed into law, Illinois would become the second state to legalize prostitution (Nevada).