Metro East Sun

State Representative Amy Elik has provided an update ahead of the upcoming Veto Session in Illinois, outlining several legislative issues that may be discussed. The Veto Session, traditionally used for considering overrides of gubernatorial vetoes on previously passed bills, has in recent years also been used to advance new legislation.

Elik highlighted that Democrats and environmental groups are advocating for an expansion of green energy policies. The current proposal includes a surcharge on electric bills to fund battery storage projects and the introduction of new energy efficiency requirements. She expressed concern over increased energy costs resulting from previous policies.

She also noted ongoing concerns regarding Illinois’ Biometric Information and Privacy Act (BIPA). According to Elik, strict regulations combined with potential energy limitations are causing apprehension among job creators in the tech and construction sectors, which could negatively impact employment and investment in the state.

Addressing fiscal matters, Elik mentioned a possible "fiscal cliff" for mass transit funding. Solutions under consideration include various tax increases such as a $1.50 per-delivery tax on goods including Amazon purchases and food delivery, as well as expanded sales taxes on services like lawn care and home maintenance. "My Republican colleagues and I are remaining fully opposed to any new tax proposal that will drive up cost of living for Illinois families, and taxpayers are tapped out and tired of footing the bill on the Democrats’ spending spree," she said.

Regarding education policy, Elik referred to The Homeschool Act (HB2827). The bill’s sponsor recently left her position as State Representative to become a judge in DuPage County. "This reduces my concerns that HB2827 will be pushed through in our fall veto session in October, but I will be watching to see if the bill gets transferred to another Representative. We will remain vigilant and let you know if anything changes for this bill," Elik stated.

Elik warned that new legislation not directly related to vetoed bills is sometimes expedited during the Veto Session: "Unfortunately, the Veto Session is also often a time when fresh legislation, that really has no place being considered during the annual gathering of lawmakers, is rushed through the process."

She encouraged constituents to stay informed about General Assembly actions during the Veto Session: "Illinois citizens would be smart to stay tuned closely to the actions of the General Assembly." The first week of session begins Tuesday, October 14 through Thursday, October 16; it resumes from Tuesday, October 28 through Thursday, October 30.

Interested individuals can follow proceedings at ilga.gov/House/AudioVideo.

In her district activities update, Elik described attending events such as a water festival at Lewis and Clark Community College organized by the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center for area fifth graders; participating in Alton's Riverfront Park fitness court ribbon-cutting; celebrating continued steel processing at Granite City Works; supporting A Precious Organization’s sickle cell awareness walk; and joining Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s “Makers on the Move” tour.

"It’s an honor to serve you. My office remains committed to assisting you with any issues you may be having with a state agency. Reach out any time, and we’re happy to help," Elik said.

Her office will close Monday, October 13 for Columbus Day observance.

Elik was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 111th House District in 2021 after succeeding Monica Bristow.