Wilcox Promotes Pro-Jobs, Pro-Employee Legislation on New Podcast
In last week’s newsletter, I highlighted a press conference where I helped introduce a package of bills that would support small businesses, provide relief to workers, and improve Illinois’ economic competitiveness.
Senate Bill 3792 (Wilcox) would eliminate Illinois’ income tax on tipped wages, allowing workers to keep more of what they earn.
Senate Bill 137 (Wilcox) would increase the retailer’s discount for small businesses, helping offset the cost of collecting and remitting sales taxes to the State of Illinois.
Senate Bill 3786 (Lewis) would create a Legacy Tax Credit for businesses headquartered in Illinois, rewarding companies for long-term investment and job creation.
Senate Bill 2763 (Syverson) would allow individuals and small business owners to deduct health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses from their state taxes.
Senator Seth Lewis and I recently discussed the bill package on a new Statehouse podcast called “Illinois Insider.” You can click on the image above to watch the podcast.
Route 47 Widening Project Underway in Woodstock
After years of delays, the long-anticipated Route 47 widening project in Woodstock is finally moving forward, with construction getting underway and continuing through 2028. The project will expand roughly 2.25 miles of roadway through the heart of the city to two lanes in each direction, while also adding upgraded intersections, three roundabouts, sidewalks, a multiuse path, and improved lighting and streetscaping.
As work begins, residents should expect weekday lane closures and occasional Saturday construction, with early efforts focused on preparing the roadway and upgrading underground infrastructure. While this investment will ultimately improve safety and traffic flow, it may create short-term challenges for drivers and local businesses. I join city officials in encouraging residents to continue supporting businesses along the corridor during construction.
For ongoing updates and construction information, residents are encouraged to visit woodstockroute47project.org.
Illinois Completes Statewide Upgrade to Next Generation 911 System
The Illinois State Police has announced that all 169 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) across Illinois have successfully transitioned to Next Generation 911 (NG911), marking a significant modernization of the state’s emergency response infrastructure.
NG911 replaces the outdated, voice-based system with a secure, internet-based network that allows 911 calls to be routed based on a caller’s precise location rather than the nearest cell tower. This improvement helps reduce delays by ensuring callers are connected directly to the appropriate emergency responders without the need for transfers between dispatch centers.
The upgraded system also enhances reliability. In the event of widespread emergencies such as severe storms or tornadoes, calls can be automatically rerouted to other 911 centers across the state, ensuring uninterrupted service for those in need.
In addition, NG911 strengthens Text-to-911 capabilities, improving access for individuals who are unable to make voice calls. The system is also designed to support future advancements, including the potential for sharing photos and video with first responders during emergency situations.
This transition reflects years of coordination and investment and will provide faster, more reliable, and more accessible emergency services for communities throughout Illinois.
Appellate Court Upholds Conviction of DCFS Caseworker in AJ Freund Case
The Illinois Appellate Court has upheld the conviction of former DCFS caseworker Carlos Acosta for failing to protect 5-year-old AJ Freund, whose 2019 death shocked the Crystal Lake community and all of Illinois. Acosta was found guilty of child endangerment after evidence showed he ignored clear signs of ongoing abuse and returned AJ to a dangerous home, where he was later killed by his mother. The court affirmed that Acosta had both the responsibility and the opportunity to intervene, and that his failure to act contributed to this preventable tragedy.
While this case marked a rare instance of holding a DCFS employee criminally accountable, it also underscores ongoing systemic failures within the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Tragically, similar concerns persist today. In the recent death of Markell Pierce, reports of suspected abuse were made repeatedly to DCFS, yet the case was closed following the latest report of abuse/malnourishment after a caseworker was unable to reach the child’s mother.
These heartbreaking cases highlight the urgent need for reform, accountability, and stronger safeguards to ensure that vulnerable children are protected.
Illinois Ranks 45th in Nation in Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth
A new study ranked Illinois 45th in the nation for entrepreneurship and economic growth, underscoring what Senate Republicans have warned for years that the state’s high taxes, burdensome regulations, and crushing policies are making it harder for families and job creators to succeed.
The ranking comes from a broader study on social mobility, which measures a person’s ability to improve their quality of life and economic well-being. While Illinois ranked 38th overall in social mobility, the state’s poor showing on entrepreneurship and growth is especially troubling. Every state bordering Illinois ranked higher in that category, highlighting just how far Illinois has fallen behind its neighbors.
For too long, Governor Pritzker and his allies have embraced policies that make Illinois less affordable and less competitive. Until Illinois changes course and supports policies that encourage growth, affordability, and opportunity, businesses will continue to struggle, and Illinois will continue to see a mass exodus of jobs and residents to other states.
New Initiative Encourages Residents to Explore Historic Sites
Illinois is preparing for the nation’s 250th anniversary with the launch of a new “America 250” passport program, designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore historic sites across the state.
The program highlights significant locations tied to Illinois’ role in American history, including cultural landmarks, museums, and heritage sites. Participants can visit featured locations and track their progress, promoting tourism while offering educational opportunities for families, students, and history enthusiasts.
State leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. By increasing awareness of Illinois’ historical contributions, the program aims to boost local economies and showcase communities throughout the state.
The passport program is a positive way to connect residents with Illinois history while supporting tourism and small businesses. Initiatives like this help highlight the state’s unique heritage and encourage families to explore what their local communities have to offer.
More information about participating sites and how to take part in the program is available at www.il250.org/passport.