Metro East Sun

Illinois lawmakers concluded a contentious veto session in Springfield, advancing several major pieces of legislation affecting transit funding, energy policy, immigration enforcement, and medical aid in dying.

One of the most significant actions was the passage of a $2.5 billion mass transit bailout. After extended negotiations and multiple versions of the proposal, House Democrats introduced their final plan as an amendment to Senate Bill 2111 late on the last night of the session. The bill passed the House with a 72-32 vote and was later approved by the Senate.

The measure includes $1.5 billion in tax increases for the Chicago region and $1 billion in higher Tollway charges to address what had been described as a $200 million fiscal shortfall for transit agencies. The new law also reallocates revenue from statewide gas taxes: previously, downstate communities received 55% of sales tax on motor fuel; under the new plan, only 10% will go to those areas, with the remainder directed toward mass transit funding.

Lawmakers also approved Senate Bill 25, which sets battery storage portfolio standards for utilities and allows them to recover costs from ratepayers. The bill grants additional authority to the Illinois Commerce Commission over rate caps and removes local control over siting battery storage facilities. Supporters say it repeals Illinois' nuclear construction ban but critics argue it could lead to substantial rate hikes for families and businesses.

On immigration enforcement, legislators passed House Bill 1312 banning civil immigration arrests in and around state courthouses. The bill permits residents to sue immigration agents who violate constitutional rights such as due process or protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. Additional penalties apply if agents conceal their identity or fail to wear body cameras during operations. Law enforcement groups have expressed concerns about how these provisions will be implemented.

The General Assembly also voted to decouple Illinois’ tax code from federal rules regarding certain business deductions—a move that opponents argue could hurt economic growth given increased state spending since 2019.

Additionally, a bill allowing medical aid in dying—commonly referred to as assisted suicide—passed in the Senate after previously clearing the House during spring session. It now awaits action by Governor JB Pritzker.

Reflecting on the week’s events, one legislator commented: "Last week was rough... The session is dedicated for the legislature to vote on overriding any vetoes from the Governor; however, the supermajority Democrats used it as an excuse to pass some of the largest and most important pieces of legislation we’d see during a regular legislative session."

In community news, a Narcan Seminar and Giveaway is scheduled for November 6 at Roxana Village Hall with two sessions aimed at educating attendees about Naloxone (Narcan) use in emergencies.

Elik, a Republican elected in 2021 to represent Illinois' 111th House District after replacing Monica Bristow, continues her legislative work during these developments.