Metro East Sun

This week in Springfield saw significant developments as lawmakers and constituents engaged in various activities. Representative Schmidt expressed commitment to supporting legislation that benefits the 114th District, emphasizing the need for changes due to high taxes and limited opportunities under current policies.

Rep. Schmidt highlighted participation in discussions regarding the House Republican’s “Relief for Working Families Legislative Package.” This initiative aims to bolster Illinois' skilled trade workforce and offer financial relief to families. As part of this effort, Schmidt introduced House Bill 3807, which proposes the Illinois Trades Retention and Development Encouragement (ITRADE) Grant Program. The bill is designed to encourage careers in skilled trades by providing scholarships for students attending technical schools in Illinois.

“Many students decide to attend a technical school after graduating high school and this bill promotes the skilled trade industry and helps eligible students receive scholarships funds to pursue a degree or certificate from a qualified technical school in Illinois. It’s important every student has the opportunity to excel in a career after graduating high school, and this bill is aimed to do just that,” stated Rep. Schmidt.

The ITRADE Grant Program will cover several fields including electrical work, plumbing, masonry, steel working, fabrication, and construction. HB3807 forms part of a broader legislative package focused on economic growth and job creation.

In other news, Governor Pritzker proposed an unprecedented state budget for FY26 with expenditures set at $55.235 billion—marking a $2 billion increase over last year. Concerns were raised about funding these expenses through unconfirmed revenue projections and potential tax hikes.

“I stand firmly to support no tax hikes to supplement the proposed revenue hikes included in the largest proposed budget in Illinois history that is nearly a $2 billion dollar increase,” said Rep. Schmidt.

Additionally, Rep. Schmidt contributed donations to Smithton Food Pantry, acknowledging challenges faced by families due to living costs in Illinois.

On another front, residents are reminded about obtaining federally mandated REAL IDs before May 7th, 2025 for domestic flights or accessing certain federal facilities. Various identification documents will still be acceptable post-deadline.

Health Alliance announced its plan to exit non-Medicare insurance markets by January 1st, 2026 affecting approximately 280,000 individuals primarily in Central Illinois.

Finally, congratulations are extended to Pierre Walton from East St. Louis School District 189 on winning the IHSA Class 2A Wrestling State Championship.