Governor Presents Another Record-High Spending Plan for Illinois
Last week, Governor J.B. Pritzker outlined a $56 billion spending plan for the new fiscal year that begins July 1, 2026. As one of the budgeteers for the Senate Republicans, I appreciate the work that goes into assembling a budget proposal, but am concerned about attempts to tie education funding to a tax/fee increase, and a continued shortchanging of funds required to provide services and caretaker pay for our most vulnerable residents in the intellectually and developmentally disabled community.
I continue to hear from families and small business owners who are concerned about the rising cost of living, property taxes, and the state’s long-term economic competitiveness. With spending having grown nearly 40% since Governor Pritzker took office in 2019, I believe it is important that we proceed thoughtfully and look for sustainable ways to align spending with existing, recurring revenues.
We have an opportunity this year to continue strengthening oversight and accountability in state programs. Demonstrating that taxpayer dollars are managed effectively builds public trust and makes it easier to come together around responsible investments where they are most needed.
As budget negotiations move forward, I remain committed to working in good faith with colleagues on both sides of the aisle and with the administration. Illinois residents expect collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and practical solutions, and I am confident we can deliver a balanced budget that reflects those shared values.
Following the Governor’s speech, I addressed the Springfield press corps and offered my thoughts. You can watch that video at the top of this article.
Lewis Appears on Chicago Tonight to Discuss Pritzker’s Proposed Budget
On Thursday, I had an opportunity to appear on a bipartisan panel on WTTW’s Chicago Tonight to discuss the Governor’s proposed budget further.
During the interview, I provided additional comments about the Pritzker budget proposal and reiterated that the Governor’s priorities continue to be misplaced.
In my opinion, the Administration needed to go line by line through the current year’s budget and find areas where costs could be cut. That did not happen. I believe there is fluff in the budget that could and should be removed. As a reminder, the current Fiscal Year 2026 budget includes hundreds of millions in statewide taxpayer funds that are earmarked for the construction of a mega sports complex in Speaker of the House Chris Welch’s district. There is a significant problem when existing funds are used for pet projects like that, yet calls for new revenue surface when it comes to funding education for this state’s children.
I also set the record straight when an attempt was made to tie some of Illinois’ challenges to the Rauner administration. Former Governor Rauner left office nearly eight years ago, and this is Governor Pritzker’s eighth budget. Efforts to blame Bruce Rauner ring hollow. After eight years, this is JB Pritzker’s Illinois. He must own the financial problems we now face.
Lewis Delivers Thousands of Valentines to Local Seniors
Through my Valentines for Seniors Card Collection Program, I recently delivered thousands of Valentine’s Day cards to seniors throughout the 24th District, reminding them they are valued, appreciated, and never forgotten.
Valentine’s Day is about showing people they matter. It was a privilege to meet so many wonderful seniors, hear their stories, and see the smiles these cards brought to their faces. Our seniors built the communities we call home, and they deserve to feel appreciated not just on holidays, but every day.
Schools, churches, and residents from across the 24th District answered the call to create heartfelt cards and notes. What started as a simple gesture turned into a powerful reminder of how much our communities care.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this effort so special for the seniors in our district. Your kindness truly made a difference.
Keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois
The Chicago Bears have long been part of the fabric of Illinois. The Bears are an iconic franchise that brings pride to our communities and drives meaningful economic activity across the Chicago region and state. As discussions continue about the team’s future stadium, Illinois has a clear opportunity to retain a generational asset that supports jobs, tourism, and regional investment.
State and local leaders have been working with the Bears toward a framework for a new stadium development in Arlington Heights. At the same time, officials in neighboring Indiana have advanced a competing proposal in Hammond. This regional competition underscores the significant economic value major sports franchises bring to their home states.
Keeping the Bears in Illinois is the right outcome for our economy and our identity. The team has called our state home for more than a century, and Illinois offers the market strength, infrastructure, and fan support needed for long-term success. Any stadium agreement, however, must be transparent, fiscally responsible, and fair to taxpayers. Projects of this scale should deliver lasting public benefit alongside private investment.
I remain hopeful that state, local, and team leaders can secure an agreement that keeps the Bears in Illinois while protecting taxpayers and strengthening our regional economy.
Proposal Supports Small Employers with Tax Credit for Health Reimbursement Arrangements
A new Senate proposal I am supporting this year would help small businesses make employee health coverage more affordable by creating a new tax credit for employers that offer Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs).
Senate Bill 3619 is an initiative of the Small Business Advocacy Council. The legislation would establish a tax credit for small businesses that choose to provide HRAs. An HRA is a tool that can help employers reimburse employees for qualified health care expenses and, in some cases, individual health insurance premiums. Supporters say the measure would give small employers another flexible, cost-effective option to offer benefits and stay competitive when trying to attract and retain workers.
While HRAs may not be the right fit for every business, expanding access to benefit options is critical for job creators facing rising costs. SB 3619 is designed to ease the financial burden of providing health benefits and ensure small businesses have more tools to compete, grow, and support their employees.
Senate Bill 3619 has been assigned to the Senate Revenue Committee.
Lewis Meets With Advocacy Groups in Springfield
While last week was filled with the budget address, committee action, Chicago Bears meetings, and more, I also took time to meet with groups who were at the Capitol for their association advocacy days. In the photo above, I am shown with representatives from the Illinois Association of Physicians Assistants, and below I am shown with members of the Northwest Municipal Conference. During our discussions, we discussed the groups’ legislative priorities and enjoyed meaningful conversations about how I can best represent them in Springfield.
Senate Republicans Introduce Plan to Protect Senior Property Tax Relief from Inflation
In an effort to protect seniors from rising costs, I am supporting legislation this year 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.