Metro East Sun

This week, a local representative provided updates on his legislative activities, a recent audit report, and personal health matters. He has introduced the Second Amendment Heritage Bill Package aimed at protecting gun rights in Illinois. The package includes several bills such as HB56, which allows concealed carry for States Attorneys and judges in courtrooms, and HB1128, which lowers the age to obtain a FOID card to 18.

The representative is also cosponsoring legislation to repeal what he describes as an unconstitutional gun ban and supports efforts to "Void the FOID" card. He emphasized his commitment to advancing and protecting Second Amendment rights in Illinois.

Additionally, an audit report from the Illinois Auditor General highlighted issues with the state-run HBIA/HBIS program for undocumented immigrants. The program reportedly exceeded enrollment and cost estimates significantly. The representative criticized this overspending and called for the program's termination.

On a personal note, he shared an update on his cancer treatment. Having completed his first round of radiation for prostate cancer, he expressed gratitude for the support received from across the country. He thanked his medical team at St. Elizabeth’s in O’Fallon for their care during his treatment process.

The representative encouraged men over 50 to routinely check PSA levels for early cancer detection, stressing its importance in saving lives. Despite experiencing minor side effects from treatment, he remains active in his duties representing the 109th district.

In district news, he mentioned meeting with representatives of Pharmacists Association regarding challenges faced by small independent pharmacies. Other activities included celebrating milestones with local organizations and participating in committee meetings.