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Thursday, October 2, 2025

Illinois State Rep. Charles E. Meier (R-Highland)

Recent News About Illinois State Rep. Charles E. Meier (R-Highland)

  • Sangamon County judge declares rushed Democratic election law changes unconstitutional

    Last month, Democrats' elections bill was introduced, passed through the General Assembly, and signed into law in less than two days. This law, which changed election rules mid-cycle, has now been found unconstitutional by a Sangamon County judge.

  • Illinois Milk Producers Association donates over 17,000 pounds of milk to food banks

    The Illinois Milk Producers Association has made a significant contribution to combating hunger in the state by donating 17,424 pounds of milk to various food banks across Illinois. This effort is part of a broader initiative to address food insecurity within the community.

  • Rep. Meier congratulates recipients of 2024 small equipment grant program

    The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) recently announced the list of fire departments and EMS providers selected as recipients of the 2024 Small Equipment Grant Program. Representative Meier commented on the importance of these grants, stating, "These grants are used to upgrade lifesaving firefighting and ambulance equipment so that our first responders may be best prepared to take on whatever obstacles they face."

  • Rep. Meier criticizes SB 1289 over eminent domain concerns

    During the final days of the spring legislative session, the Illinois General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1289, known as the Safety and Aid for the Environment in Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act (SAFE CCS Act). The bill introduces several new regulations regarding the capture, transport, and sequestration of carbon emissions in Illinois. State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville), a member of the House Energy & Environment Committee, expressed his disapproval of several provisions within the bill, particularly its eminent domain-like system to establish underground...

  • Rep. Charlie Meier criticizes $53 billion FY25 budget over spending priorities

    State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) is among several Illinois lawmakers voicing significant concerns over the proposed Illinois Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, finalized late Friday evening when the House was initially scheduled to adjourn. The new budget includes increased taxes on sportsbooks, reduced tax discounts for retail businesses, and an overall cost increase nearing $1 billion.

  • Meier offers advice following major storm damage in metro-east, southern Illinois

    State Representative Charlie Meier is advising local residents and businesses on best practices following the severe thunderstorms and tornadoes that struck the metro-east and southern Illinois on Sunday evening.

  • Memorial Day Wall displayed at Illinois Capitol until June 7

    Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Above is a picture of the Wall of Remembrance hosted by the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus. It is an annual display honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

  • Rep. Charlie Meier supports amended HB 793 while urging further improvements

    State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) has continued to legislate on behalf of workers with severe developmental and intellectual disabilities. Meier, a member of the House Human Services Committee and longtime defender of disabled Illinoisans, has been an outspoken critic of House Bill 793. The legislation, titled the “Dignity in Pay Act,” directs the Employment and Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities Task Force to create a plan to eliminate 14c certificates that allow employers to pay disabled workers a subminimum wage. This change, as noted by Rep....

  • Rep. Meier co-sponsors SB3753 to protect developmentally disabled individuals

    State Representative Charlie Meier has expressed his support for Senate Bill 3753, legislation aimed at implementing stronger protections for developmentally disabled individuals and imposing strict penalties on State-Operated Developmental Centers (SODC) and Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILA). The bill passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday with a unanimous vote of 111-0.

  • Rep. Meier leads legislative effort targeting negligent community integrated living arrangements

    State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) has long advocated for the protection of residents with profound physical and mental disabilities living in Illinois’ State-Operated Developmental Centers (SODC) and Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILA). As a member of the House Human Services and Health and Human Services Appropriation Committees, Meier recently announced his successful effort to amend legislation aimed at strengthening protections and imposing stricter penalties on negligent CILAs.

  • Charlie Meier's fight against HB 793: Protecting developmentally disabled workers

    The past week in Springfield saw the continuation of committee work and voting on Senate bills. Despite a relatively quiet week, the coming weeks are anticipated to be filled with controversial bills, heated debates, and substantial work. Additionally, there was an opportunity to welcome constituents to the Capitol.

  • Legislator urges rejection of bill threatening jobs for developmentally disabled

    Throughout my tenure in Springfield, I have diligently represented the interests of those citizens in our state who live under state care, reside in Community Integrated Living Arrangements, and those developmentally disabled individuals performing light tasks at “14c Workshops” across the state.

  • National Nurses Day Celebrated in the 109th District

    Today, on May 6, 2024, National Nurses Day is being celebrated in the 109th District. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial role that nurses play in keeping our communities healthy.In recognition of this important day, a message was shared expressing gratitude towards the nurses in the 109th District. The message stated, "National Nurses Day is a great reminder of the important work that nurses do to keep our communities healthy." Furthermore, a special thank you was extended to all the nurses in the 109th District for their continued compassionate care. The...

  • Rep. Meier Honors Fallen Police Officers

    Rep. Meier Honors Fallen Police OfficersOn May 6, 2024, Rep. Meier paid tribute to the fallen police officers at the Illinois Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony. Expressing his sentiments, he stated, "Last week we honored our fallen heroes at the Illinois Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony." The event brought together law enforcement officers from across the state to recognize those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.In a somber reflection, Rep. Meier reiterated his support for the families of the fallen officers, saying, "I continue to pray for the families and remember...

  • Listen: Rep. Meier Voices Frustration Regarding Last Second Election Omnibus Bill

    State Representative Charlie Meier (R – Okawville) expressed his frustration with the last-second passage of Senate Bill 2412 by House Democrats on Wednesday. Meier, who represents the 109th District including portions of Bond, Clinton, Madison, St. Clair, and Washington counties, outlined several issues he had with the rushed legislation.Meier's concerns were evident as he spoke out against the hurried approval of the omnibus bill, highlighting the lack of transparency and thorough discussion surrounding its provisions. The representative's stance reflects a growing...

  • School Principals in Illinois Recognized on School Principals’ Day

    On May 1, 2024, School Principals’ Day serves as a significant acknowledgment of the dedication and hard work of school principals. The event highlights the crucial role that principals play in the education system, from elementary to high school levels.The celebration extends to principals across Illinois, with a special message of gratitude directed towards them. As stated, "Thank you to all the principals across Illinois!"

  • Rep. Meier: Democrats Rush through Elections Bill that Stifles Democratic Process, Change Rules for Upcoming Election

    SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) strongly criticized the passage of SB 2412 through the Illinois House, labeling it as a move that undermines the democratic process and favors the Democratic party. Meier expressed his concerns, stating, "This is Democrats stealing away democracy, plain and simple." He attributed the push for the bill to various challenges faced by the super majority and accused them of attempting to limit the minority party's ability to field candidates against them.Meier also condemned the speed at which the bill was...

  • Illinois Celebrates Bacon Day

    Illinois Bacon Day is being celebrated today, with enthusiasts across the state coming together to honor this sizzling delight. According to a statement, "Today is Illinois Bacon Day!" highlighting the significance of this day in the hearts of many.In a nod to the pork industry's impressive output, it was revealed that "Illinois’ pork industry produces more than 6 billion slices of bacon each year." This has led to a day of festivities dedicated to recognizing the efforts of pork producers and their contribution to our tables. As one participant joyfully exclaimed, "Happy...

  • IFB Docuseries Covers Diversity, Challenges of Farming in Illinois

    The Illinois Farm Bureau has recently launched a docuseries titled “Fields Apart: Rooted Together,” which delves into the diverse agricultural landscape of Illinois. The series comprises three thirty-minute episodes that highlight the varied farming practices and challenges faced by farmers across the state.One farmer involved in the project noted, "As a farmer, I know the challenges that come about with running the farm all too well." The docuseries aims to shed light on the obstacles encountered by both downstate and Chicago-based farmers, showcasing the vital roles...

  • Celebrating National Small Business Week in Illinois

    National Small Business Week is here, and it's time to celebrate the entrepreneurs who drive our economy. In light of this important week, a call to action has been made to support small businesses in Illinois by shopping locally.In a statement, an unidentified source expressed, "Happy National Small Business Week to the entrepreneurs who power our economy." This sentiment echoes the importance of recognizing the contributions of small business owners and the impact they have on local communities.The source further encouraged individuals to "Remember to shop local this...