Metro East Sun

Over the weekend, the Illinois General Assembly approved a $55.2 billion budget, marking the largest in state history and an increase of nearly $2 billion from the previous year. House Republicans expressed satisfaction in defeating certain bills, including the Homeschool Act and the Service Tax.

Rep. Elik stated, "I voted against this budget because I believe my district’s hard-earned tax dollars are not being well spent." She criticized what she perceives as mismanagement by the supermajority party, noting that despite Democrats acknowledging a challenging budget year, they still managed to allocate funds for pay raises and projects in Democratic districts. Additionally, she highlighted concerns about reallocating funds meant for other purposes to supplement the general revenue fund.

In other legislative developments, Senate Bill 1950 was passed by the Illinois House of Representatives with a vote of 63-42. The bill addresses physician-assisted suicide, although Rep. Elik noted its misleading title suggesting it pertains to sanitary food preparation. She remarked on procedural issues regarding how the bill was processed and voiced her opposition: "I voted for life."

The bill did not progress to a hearing in the Senate.

On Second Amendment issues, Rep. Elik raised constitutional concerns over two measures (SB8 and HB850) passed by House Democrats that she believes infringe on gun rights and could lead to costly litigation.

Looking ahead to summer activities, Rep. Elik plans several events in her district, including a Kids Fair in Granite City on June 28th with Senator Erica Harriss.

Rep. Elik concluded her update with gratitude: "Thank you for taking time to read my Capitol Update. We will be in touch again soon!"