Metro East Sun

Charlie Meier, a representative known for his advocacy work, recently shared updates on various legislative and community matters. Meier expressed gratitude for being selected as the 2024 VOICE AWARD recipient, recognizing his efforts in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and autism. "I do not do this work for the recognition, but it certainly is a wonderful feeling to be appreciated," he stated.

Meier announced that Governor Pritzker signed House Bill 5138 into law. This legislation mandates the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to provide road studies to local governments upon request, aiming to reduce redundant efforts and save taxpayer dollars. The bill originated from feedback during a Greenville Chamber After Hours event.

In another legislative matter, Meier addressed the ongoing court challenge against Illinois' recent gun ban and registration law. The United States Supreme Court has decided not to expedite the case, requiring it to proceed through lower courts first. "This does not mean that the law is constitutional; it just means we have to wait longer for the US Supreme Court to weigh in," Meier clarified.

Meier also voiced opposition to the TRUST Act, which allows undocumented immigrants in Illinois to obtain driver's licenses. He criticized Governor Pritzker's administration for prioritizing benefits for undocumented immigrants over state citizens. "Illinois taxpayers cannot continue to shoulder this financial burden of free benefits," he argued.

On a different note, Meier highlighted Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program offering free monthly books to children in Southern Illinois from birth to five years old. Families can sign up at www.readsi.org.

Meier revisited last year's attempt by Democrats to adopt California's vehicle emissions standards in Illinois, which included banning gas-powered vehicles within ten years. Activists are now trying to pass similar regulations through the Pollution Control Board. "We already killed this bill once; we can do it again," he affirmed.

Additionally, Meier criticized Governor Pritzker's new Medicaid waiver request intending to allocate funds for convicted felons' healthcare needs while continuing substantial Medicaid spending on non-citizens.

Finally, Meier provided an update from his farm life: farmers affected by recent storms may be eligible for assistance details available on his website. He also celebrated his niece Hannah's wedding and shared that canning season is underway at his farm.

For more information or updates from Representative Charlie Meier, constituents are encouraged to visit his official website or sign up for his newsletter.

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