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Cost of Living Continues to Skyrocket for Illinoisans
Illinois residents continue to face significant increases to their cost of living. The latest report from Insurify reveals that Illinois’ car insurance rates have skyrocketed by 46% since 2023. Illinois now ranks among the top five states for year-over-year car insurance increases, putting additional financial strain on families already dealing with rising expenses and increased tax burdens.
The report also ranked Illinois fifth in the nation for car thefts last year alone. Senator Bennett pointed out that these rising costs are yet another consequence of the state’s failure to effectively address public safety, impacting the well-being and financial security of Illinois families.
These alarming insurance hikes are not the only financial burden Illinoisans face. The state continues to be the least tax-friendly state in the nation and has some of the highest property taxes in the country, adding to the strain on families trying to make ends meet.
Senate Republicans note that hardworking taxpayers cannot continue to operate under the burdens placed on their shoulders, calling for reforms to protect both public safety and the financial security of Illinoisans during the upcoming fall veto session.
Senator Bennett Named Champion of Illinois Manufacturers
Senator Bennett was recently recognized as a “Champion of Manufacturing” in the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s (IMA) 2024 Legislative Report Card, which highlights lawmakers who consistently support Illinois’ manufacturing industry.
The IMA’s Report Card rates lawmakers based on their voting record on key bills that impact the state’s manufacturing sector. It showcases where lawmakers stand relative to support Illinois’ manufacturing economy and the jobs it creates.
With a voting record of 97%, Senator Bennett demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting policies that benefit manufacturers and the broader business community in Illinois. As the manufacturing sector employs over 600,000 people in the state, ensuring that manufacturers have a strong voice in Springfield helps safeguard a cornerstone of Illinois’ economy and a major job creator in the state.
To see a full list of bills evaluated by the IMA for the 2024 Legislative Report Card, click here.
State Officials Host Roundtables to Discuss Aging Issues and Policies
In an effort to address the growing needs of Illinois’ older adult population, state aging officials are organizing a series of roundtable discussions open to service providers, caregivers, older adults, and the general public.
Over the coming months, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is working with regional Area Agencies on Aging to host a dozen roundtable discussions statewide to inform the development of Illinois’ 2026-2028 State Plan on Aging. This plan is a strategic framework to improve and promote the quality of life for older adults, their families, and caregivers.
Several in-person roundtable discussions are scheduled across the state, with locations including Du Bois, Mt. Vernon, Quincy, Springfield, Peoria, Dixon, and Maywood. Additional talks, including virtual events, will be announced later in the fall.
Participants are encouraged to RSVP. For upcoming dates, locations, and contact information, visit the Illinois Department of Aging’s website.
The current State Plan on Aging, completed in July 2021, runs through federal fiscal year 2025.
How much do we owe?
As of the time of this writing, the State of Illinois owes $1,982,237,887.72 to state vendors, including 16,905 pending vouchers. This figure represents the amount of bills submitted to the office of the Comptroller and still awaiting payment. It does not include debts that can only be estimated, such as our unfunded pension liability which is subject to a wide range of factors and has been estimated to be more than $139 billion. At the same time last year, the state’s accounts payable stood at a little less than $2 billion.
Did You Know?
Today is National Emergency Services Day. Emergency Services Day is a time to honor and express gratitude for the dedication and bravery of all those who serve on the front lines to protect our communities. From firefighters and paramedics to police officers and search and rescue teams, these selfless individuals put their lives at risk every day to keep us safe. Their commitment, courage, and tireless efforts make a profound difference in times of crisis. Today, we thank them for their service and recognize the invaluable role they play in safeguarding our well-being.
This Week in the 53rd District
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