Metro East Sun

The State of Illinois faces pressing issues, including an immigration crisis, high taxes, and corruption. House Republicans have proposed legislation they believe could address these problems, but claim that Democrats are not taking action on the most critical matters.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently criticized Illinois' sanctuary state policy during a visit to Springfield. She argued that these policies have led to violence against American citizens by shielding undocumented immigrants from facing legal consequences. Secretary Noem also condemned Governor Pritzker for allocating $1.6 billion in taxpayer funds to expand healthcare for those residing illegally in the state.

In response, Representative Schmidt has co-sponsored HB 1317, which aims to repeal the Illinois TRUST Act. This law currently restricts local law enforcement agencies from collaborating with federal authorities on detaining and deporting undocumented immigrants.

Additionally, there is concern over potential new taxes amounting to $6 billion annually. The Illinois Revenue Alliance—a group comprising organizations such as the Chicago Teachers Union and the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights—has proposed this "tax-and-spend" plan. However, Illinois House Republicans have criticized these proposals as burdensome for working families and businesses.

Ethics reform remains another contentious issue in the state legislature. Despite calls for change following the conviction of former Illinois House Speaker Michel J. Madigan on corruption charges, no significant ethics reform legislation has been debated or voted on this year. House Democrats have been accused of blocking efforts to address political corruption in Springfield.