Metro East Sun

I hope everyone is staying busy and cool as summer winds down. I’ve been keeping busy and want to update you. This week, I’ll discuss what I’ve been doing, seniors, economic development, the environment, the DuQuoin State Fair, and what’s next.

This has been a fantastic week! I joined Rep. Charlie Meier for a Coffee Talk in New Baden. It was great to hear directly from you about what issues are important to you. I have prioritized being accessible and transparent and look forward to more opportunities to represent you.

I toured Bowman Avenue Pump Station. It was eye-opening to visit the station. Many people don’t realize how important this station is. It deals with water from Columbia to Alton, and without it our interstate would flood in only 30 minutes.

My job fair was a success! It was great to see so many professionals come together to learn about opportunities for new careers. Thank you to all who came, both vendors and job seekers! The 114th district is going to see some new employees soon!

House Republicans champion legislation to help seniors. Illinois House Republicans continue efforts aimed at enhancing the lives of seniors across the state through legislative measures addressing healthcare, housing, financial stability, and driver safety.

Rep. Ryan Spain has long been an advocate for seniors. He has championed property tax relief, increased access to transportation, safeguarded retirement benefits, and protected against exploitation.

“Our seniors have given so much to our communities, and it’s our duty to ensure they’re protected and supported,” said Rep. Spain. “We’re committed to passing legislation that makes a real difference in their lives.”

Rep. Jeff Keicher emphasized respect for older drivers in Illinois: “Seniors deserve to live with the respect and dignity they’ve earned,” he said.

I have sponsored several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving financial and healthcare security for Illinois seniors by reducing property taxes, lowering grocery costs, protecting retirement income, and fighting financial exploitation.

Supporting our seniors isn’t just about policy—it’s about recognizing their contributions and ensuring they can live comfortably.

General Assembly makes changes to the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). Enacted in 2008, BIPA aims to protect biometric information privacy but has led to significant lawsuits against businesses using biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition.

After warnings from the business community regarding BIPA's impact on job creation and retention, House Republicans sponsored bills seeking reform. In 2024's spring session under pressure from various stakeholders SB 2979 passed allowing some changes while leaving many original provisions intact.

Even after SB 2979's enactment into law in August 2024 BIPA remains contentious among employers due its unique legal landscape compared other states competing with Illinois for jobs.

State Representative Brandun Schweizer filed HB 5870 aiming ban carbon sequestration activity around federally designated Sole Source Aquifers including Mahomet Aquifer following concerns raised by newly signed SB1289 which allows such activities potentially risking drinking water sources across regions like east-central Illinois

“My biggest concern with newly signed legislation possible drilling around Mahomet Aquifer supplies drinking water entire district,” said Rep Schweizer emphasizing need stronger protections bipartisan letter Governor Pritzker seeking response remains unanswered but dedication continues

The Du Quoin State Fair opened last Friday with ribbon cutting Twilight Parade showcasing annual festivities highlighting agricultural significance alongside various events performances throughout duration extending gratitude involved organizing consistent enjoyable experiences community

This Friday hosting another Coffee Talk Mascoutah opportunity share desired changes September hosting FREE Shred Day Cahokia Fitness Sports Complex accepting electronics recycling list accepted items available online

Thank reading Schmidt Spotlight updates soon have great week!