Metro East Sun

State Representative Kevin Schmidt of Millstadt has filed House Bill 1421, aiming to provide Illinois veterans with a paid day off on Veterans Day. The proposed legislation, named the Veterans Day Paid Leave Act, requires employers to grant this benefit to employees who are veterans. Rep. Schmidt expressed gratitude towards veterans for their sacrifices and noted that his bill is a way to thank them. "We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they made to protect the freedoms we all enjoy today," he said.

The bill also proposes an income tax credit for employers who comply by providing the paid leave. Schmidt highlighted the state's existing resources for veterans available on his website.

In financial matters, Illinois faces a projected $737 million budget shortfall for Fiscal Year 2026, according to the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA). This projection was presented by CGFA economists earlier this week. State Representative Kevin Schmidt commented on the issue: “The people I represent want solutions that will bring down their taxes, lower the prices at the grocery store and gas pump, and give them an opportunity to get ahead, not just get by.”

The CGFA predicts weak private-sector job growth in Illinois in upcoming months, potentially leading to disappointing tax revenues. Without hidden tax increases and one-time money transfers within Governor Pritzker’s proposed budget, the shortfall could exceed $1.2 billion.

Additionally, Illinois plans to borrow $725 million through "Build Illinois" bonds backed by sales and use tax revenues. The funds will support capital projects such as developing a new Chicago-based quantum campus and other infrastructure initiatives.

House Republicans have filed a lawsuit with the Illinois Supreme Court against what they describe as partisan legislative maps drawn by Democrats. They argue that these maps undermine voter representation and advocate for HJRCA 5—a proposal seeking an independent commission for drawing district maps.

International Women's Day will be celebrated this Saturday with events recognizing women's achievements worldwide. Meanwhile, high school students across Illinois can participate in an essay competition hosted by the Illinois Psychiatric Society in memory of Dr. Carl C. Bell.