Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s plan to use surpluses to pay down bills and bolster reserves and pension contributions drew positive reviews from rating agency analysts. […]
“The reserve and pension action are modest in scope, but positive and symbolic of the state’s fiscal improvement,” CreditSights said in a brief review of the proposed Illinois budget authored by John Ceffalio, senior municipal research analyst, and Patrick Luby, senior market strategist. “The governor’s proposals are likely to meet with approval by credit rating agencies leaving Illinois poised for positive rating news this calendar year as its credit slowly normalizes.” […]
“To the state’s credit, they’ve unwound many of the one-time budget maneuvers implemented before and during the early months of the pandemic, and have also continued progress in paying down the bills backlog to much more sustainable levels,” said Eric Kim, Fitch’s lead analyst on Illinois. “There are some proposals in the executive budget that clearly target the state’s biggest credit challenges.” […]
“It is a budget based on reasonable assumptions that is addressing some of the credit risks we’ve discussed so to that end it is a budget that is taking steps in a positive direction,” said Geoffrey Buswick, lead Illinois analyst at S&P. S&P’s positive outlook assigned last November reflects a one-in-three chance of an upgrade over a two-year time frame. […]
“In general, any additional money that goes to reserves or pays down long-term liabilities that are coming from excess revenues we view positively,” said Moody’s lead Illinois analyst Matthew Butler. “We are not losing sight that Illinois still faces more long-term liabilities and cost pressures than other states but given current revenue performance the state is able to take additional positive steps forward.”
Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is urging the top three credit rating firms to again bump up her state because of its mounting fiscal improvements that already led to its first upgrades in two decades last year.
“I believe Illinois is due to be recognized for our current achievements and plans to further strengthen our financial situation, and I believe these are strong indicators that favor upgrading Illinois’s credit rating,” Mendoza wrote in a letter dated Feb. 4, viewed by Bloomberg News. […]
“The governor’s proposals are likely to meet with approval by credit rating agencies, leaving Illinois poised for positive rating news this calendar year as its credit slowly normalizes,” CreditSights Inc. wrote in a report on Feb. 2. […]
“Those are positive steps forward,” Matthew Butler, vice president-senior credit officer for Moody’s, said in an interview last week.
S&P analyst Geoffrey Buswick said a budget proposal by itself wouldn’t trigger a credit action and there are still months of budget negotiations ahead of the state. Lawmakers have to approve Pritzker’s spending plan.
On Friday, the Republican National Committee described the violent January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol as “legitimate political discourse” while censuring two Republican members of Congress, including one from Illinois. In the time since, Illinois Republicans have been in hiding, hoping no one will ask them what they think of that disgraceful description. Here are a few simple questions the Illinois Republican Party and Illinois Republican candidates — especially candidates for Congress — must answer:
• Do Republican candidates agree with the RNC that the January 6 attack on police officers and the United States Capitol was “legitimate political discourse?”
• Do these candidates agree or disagree with Congresswoman Liz Cheney who said, “The leaders of the Republican Party have made themselves willing hostages to a man who admits he tried to overturn a presidential election and suggests he would pardon Jan. 6 defendants, some of whom have been charged with seditious conspiracy.”
• Do these candidates agree or disagree with former presidential candidate and current U.S. Senator Mitt Romney who said, “shame falls on a party that would censure persons of conscience, who seek truth in the face of vitriol.”
• If elected, would these Republican candidates for Congress vote to keep the current Republican leadership in the U.S. House?
Illinois voters deserve to know if Republican candidates and the Illinois Republican Party are willing to take a stand against the shameful downplaying of the January 6 insurrection, which was in no way “legitimate political discourse.”
Sullivan’s choice for lieutenant governor, Kathleen Murphy, served as the director of communications for former Republican state Rep. Jeanne Ives, who pledged “there will be a reckoning,” when she launched her 2018 challenge to Gov. Bruce Rauner after he signed into law a bill that expanded public funding of abortion in Illinois. […]
Murphy was the president and co-founder of Breakthrough Ideas, a conservative political advocacy group that “connects the dots on public policy,” until she resigned Thursday, according to a statement from fellow co-founder Ives.
But despite working alongside Murphy for a decade, Ives declined to endorse her and Sullivan at this time. The conservative firebrand from Wheaton said she was considering the Republican candidates in the race before she’ll make her own personal endorsement.
* Sullivan was asked in Quincy about the governor’s proposed tax cuts…
The arsonist has become the fireman. That’s how I see it.
Gary Rabine, a Republican primary candidate running for governor in Illinois, said he opposes state spending on expanding early childhood education programs, and suggested families should “figure it out” on their own.
“Early childhood education, I’m not not a fan of, number one,” Rabine said in an interview on Capitol Connection. “I think there’s a lot of money spent there. I think parents need to raise their own kids and our government shouldn’t be raising kids.”
Rabine was responding to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s recent State of the State and budget address where the incumbent Democrat called to spend an extra $54 million on early childhood education in the upcoming fiscal year, and funnel another $350 million to the most severely underfunded local K-12 school districts.
Rabine called higher state spending on K-12 education “a good idea,” but suggested that money shouldn’t go toward paying teachers higher wages.
* Rabine press release this afternoon…
After witnessing what’s happening in schools across Illinois today – parents, don’t blame the teachers, superintendents or kids – this chaos is the sole responsibility of failed Governor, JB Pritzker. This ruling has been pending for a week and had been in the courts for months. Illinois kids are paying for JB’s failed leadership.
Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced today that a Sangamon County judge has granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) halting the implementation of the recently-enacted legislation creating new judicial subcircuits in Madison County.
Because we conclude plaintiffs did not make the requisite showing that they would suffer an irreparable injury if a temporary restraining order did not issue before the merits of their claims could be adjudicated, we reverse the circuit court’s order.
* NRCC…
Hi there –
A court ruling in Springfield on Friday granted a temporary restraining order against Gov. JB Pritzker’s executive order mandating masks in schools.
Are Illinois Democrats staying silent because they don’t want to upset their megadonors?
NRCC Comment: “Marie Newman, Sean Casten, Bill Foster, and Lauren Underwood should stand up for children instead of their teachers’ union megadonors.” – NRCC Spokeswoman Courtney Parella
The Republican primary for the 105th district Illinois House race will be crowded if all the candidates who have announced stay in.
From LaSalle County, former State’s Attorney Karen Donnelly announced her run last month. A former Congressional candidate from Benson, Donald Rients, is also asking for the nomination. So is Livingston County Board member Mike Kirkton. Dennis Tipsord is a Woodford County sheriff’s deputy. And Kyle Ham is the former executive director for the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council.
— FIRST IN PLAYBOOK: Four noted Black leaders are endorsing Anna Valencia in her bid for secretary of state. They are former CEO of Chicago Public Schools Janice Jackson, former state Sen. and adviser to the governor Toi Hutchinson, former state Sen. James Clayborne, and Alton Democrats Chair Steven Kimbrough.
— FIRST IN PLAYBOOK: Delia Ramirez has been endorsed by PODER PAC, a national political action committee dedicated to electing Democratic Latinas to Congress who support abortion rights. Ramirez is a state senator running for Congress in the newly created 3rd District.
— Republican state Rep. Sandy Hamilton is announcing her plans to seek reelection today in the 99th District.
That would be news to Rep. Hamilton, who was recently appointed and therefore isn’t seeking reelection. More importantly, she’s not even running for the House…
Today, Illinois State Representative Sandy Hamilton announced her campaign for Illinois’ 48th State Senate district. The newly-drawn district covers portions of Sangamon, Macon and Christian counties, including the cities of Springfield, Decatur and Edinburg.
State Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) is pitching in against a recently introduced bill that would allow for politicians to take “any means necessary” to control COVID-19 and other public health issues.
The bill – HB 4640 – is sponsored by State Rep. Deb Conroy (D-Villa Park). It has been roundly criticized for its authoritarian tone.
“This legislator obviously does not understand what her job is, or where her authority lies as an elected state representative,” McLaughlin told the Lake County Gazette “She does not get to unilaterally declare that constitutionally protected rights of individuals are no longer relevant in our state or let alone in her representative district.”
Conroy’s bill would allow the state to “isolate or quarantine persons who are unable or unwilling to receive vaccines, medications, or other treatments.”
“Former Illinoisan Ronald Reagan said it best, ‘The most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government and I’m here to help,’” McLaughlin said. “ Uh ….no thank you on HB 4640 Rep. Conroy.”
* OK, first of all, Rep. McLaughlin is yet another person who appears unable to discern between what’s in existing law and what is being proposed in legislation, perhaps because he has yet to pass a bill. The underlined words are proposed language, Representative. What’s not underlined is already in law. Perhaps a call to staff would help you with this kindergarten-level of legislative analysis.
Secondly, and more importantly, Rep. McLaughlin apparently doesn’t even know how to read.
To prevent the spread of a dangerously contagious or infectious disease, the Department may, pursuant to the provisions of subsection (c) of this Section, isolate or quarantine persons who are unable or unwilling to receive vaccines, medications, or other treatments pursuant to this Section.
Except as provided in this Section, no person or a group of persons may be ordered to be quarantined or isolated and no place may be ordered to be closed and made off limits to the public except with the consent of the person or owner of the place or upon the prior order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
School districts are restrained from requiring masks if a person objects, “except during the terms of lawful order of quarantine issued from their respective health department, in accordance with the IDPH Act.”
In the event of an immediate order issued without prior consent or court order, the Department shall, as soon as practical, within 48 hours after issuing the order, obtain the consent of the person or owner or file a petition requesting a court order authorizing the isolation or quarantine or closure. When exigent circumstances exist that cause the court system to be unavailable or that make it impossible to obtain consent or file a petition within 48 hours after issuance of an immediate order, the Department must obtain consent or file a petition requesting a court order as soon as reasonably possible. To obtain a court order, the Department, by clear and convincing evidence, must prove that the public’s health and welfare are significantly endangered by a person or group of persons that has, that is suspected of having, that has been exposed to, or that is reasonably believed to have been exposed to a dangerously contagious or infectious disease including non-compliant tuberculosis patients or by a place where there is a significant amount of activity likely to spread a dangerously contagious or infectious disease. The Department must also prove that all other reasonable means of correcting the problem have been exhausted and no less restrictive alternative exists. For purposes of this subsection, in determining whether no less restrictive alternative exists, the court shall consider evidence showing that, under the circumstances presented by the case in which an order is sought, quarantine or isolation is the measure provided for in a rule of the Department or in guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization. Persons who are or are about to be ordered to be isolated or quarantined and owners of places that are or are about to be closed and made off limits to the public shall have the right to counsel. If a person or owner is indigent, the court shall appoint counsel for that person or owner.
Imagine doing that for every school worker and student in Illinois to get them to wear a mask or take a covid test. That’s why the governor maintains his powers derive from the Illinois Emergency Management Act, not the IDPH Act. The judge, however, ruled otherwise.
* So, to recap: On Friday, Rep. McLaughlin cheered a judge’s ruling submitting vax/testing/mask requirements to the IDPH Act’s quarantine law. Today, Rep. McLaughlin raged at a bill that didn’t change one bit of the quarantine law’s massive and detailed requirements. He was, in other words, for the law before he was against it.
* From Rep. Conroy…
This uneducated legislator is part of the reason I am now in this situation. I hope it is worth it for him when he closes his eyes with no worries at night. That is not my current reality.
An alarming news report revealed that Governor JB Pritzker released two murderers early from prison, both who murdered their young children. These tragedies, coupled with Pritzker’s sweeping changes to criminal justice reform, have diminished public safety in Illinois. As a tough on crime former prosecutor, Richard Irvin responded:
“He’s paroled people early. He paroled a man early that beat his 6-year-old child to death,” Irvin said.
Downstater Kwayera Jackson beat his 5-month-old son to death in 1998, later telling a court he considered it “strength training” for the child.
Alma Durr, of Calumet City, shot her 21-month-old son with a .357 revolver, later blaming “stress.”
Pritzker has quietly commuted 17 sentences since 2020, including 7 violent offenders.
A spokeswoman for the governor said Pritzker follows closely the recommendations of the state prisoner review board, which remain confidential. Her written statements said:
“Alma Durr served 24 years … both prosecutors and her adult daughter supported her clemency petition.”
“Kwayera Jackson served 21 years. According to publicly available files, he was 18-years-old at the time of the crime and had no criminal history.”
A spokeswoman for Gov. Pritzker’s campaign said it is Irvin, in his private law practice, who has attempted to free notorious criminals accused of offenses such as domestic abuse and drug dealing.
* And then I received this oppo dump about some of Irvin’s clients…
ROBERT BOOKER
Booker Punched His Girlfriend In The Throat And Pushed Her Head Into The Wall. “[Robert Booker] knowingly caused bodily harm to Elizabeth Medina, the girlfriend of the defendant, in that said defendant pushed her head into the wall and struck her in the throat with a closed fist, causing visible signs of distress and difficulty swallowing.” [People of the State of Illinois v Robert Booker, Count 2, 2/27/17]
Booker Beat Male Victim With A Mop. “Robert L. Booker, while committing a battery… knowingly caused great bodily harm to Jonathan C. Rodarte, in that he struck Jonathan in the head several times with the handle of a mop, causing the mop to break and Jonathan to briefly lose consciousness. Jonathan was admitted to Presence Mercy Hospital with signs of a concussion, chipped teeth, and facial lacerations.” [People of the State of Illinois v Robert Booker, Count 1, 2/27/17]
ANDREW SADLER
Sadler Strangled His Girlfriend. “[Andrew Sadler] knowingly caused bodily harm to Christina Aguilar an intimate partner and household member of the defendant as defined by The Illinois Domestic Violence Act, in that he intentionally strangled Christina Aguilar about the neck area by applying pressure on the throat or neck of Christina Aguilar thereby impeding the normal breathing of Christina Aguilar.” [People of the State of Illinois v Andrew Sadler, Count 1, 12/29/16]
Sadler Strangled And Put Pillow Over His Girlfriend’s Face. “[Andrew Sadler] knowingly caused bodily harm to Christina Aguilar, an intimate partner and household member of the defendant, in that said defendant tackled, strangled and placed a pillow over Christina Aguilar’s face preventing her from breathing normally.” [People of the State of Illinois v Andrew Sadler, Count 2, 12/29/16]
Sadler Choked His Girlfriend And Put Pillow Over Her Face. “[Andrew Sadler] knowingly made physical contact of an insulting nature with Christina Aguilar, an intimate partner and household member of the defendant, in that said defendant tackled, choked and placed a pillow over Christina Aguilar’s face preventing her from breathing normally.” [People of the State of Illinois v Andrew Sadler, Count 3, 12/29/16]
Sadler Took His Girlfriend’s Phones To Stop Her From Calling 911. “[Andrew Sadler] knowingly took Christina Aguilar’s (an intimate partner and household member of the defendant) phones and hid them preventing her from calling 911 to report domestic violence.” [People of the State of Illinois v Andrew Sadler, Count 4, 12/29/16]
Sadler “Strangled Her, Slammed Her Body To The Floor.” “[Andrew Sadler] knowingly caused bodily harm to Christin Aguilar, a family or household member of the defendant, in that the defendant tackled her to the floor, strangled her, slammed her body to the floor, and placed a pillow over her face.” [People of the State of Illinois v Andrew Sadler, Count 2, 1/25/17]
SKYLER ELLIS
Ellis “Punched And Hit” Victim In The Face. “[Skyler Ellis] knowingly caused bodily harm to Jalen R Ellis, a family or household member of the defendant, in that said defendant punched and hit Jalen R Ellis in and about the face.” [People of the State of Illinois v Skyler Ellis, Count 1, 1/21/17]
ALEXANDER NUNEZ
Nunez “Kicked” Police Officer On The Face And Shoulder. “[Alexander Nunez] knowingly caused bodily harm to Ofc. Shettles in that he kicked OFC Shettles on the left shoulder and left side of the face, knowing said victim to be a peace officer, while performing his official duties.” [People of the State of Illinois v Alexander Nunez, Count 1, 7/5/16]
Nunez Punched Victim In The Face. “[Alexander Nunez] knowingly caused bodily harm to Moenkemier, Michal J, a family or household member of the defendant, in that said defendant punch Michael in the face with a closed fist.” [People of the State of Illinois v Alexander Nunez, Count 3, 7/5/16]
* Greg Hinz pressed Irvin on this topic the other day…
Irvin defended his work as the name partner in a family and criminal defense law firm. According to the firm’s website, it represents, among others, people accused of heroin possession, domestic battery and parents who are in danger of losing their children to state custody because of alleged abuse.
“Listen to me,” Irvin said. Under the U.S. Constitution, a bedrock of our institutions, “every person (is) innocent until proven guilty. I represent the Constitution, but I was also a prosecutor.”
Why, though, do you choose to represent these people? “My job always is to represent the Constitution of the United States of America and Illinois, and that’s exactly what I do: ensure they have due process,” he replied.
…Adding… I should’ve posted this ILGOP release here as well…
Pritzker says he supports police by attending their funerals
Last week, reporters asked Gov. JB Pritzker whether he felt responsible for rising crime in Illinois and for the brutal deaths of police officers since his anti-police, pro-criminal legislation became law.
“I attend the funerals of police officers. I talk to family members in the wake of the deaths of their loved one who was a first responder,” Pritzker said. “So, no one needs to tell me about the seriousness of the attack that has taken place on a police officer because I feel it, I talk to those people, unfortunately, too regularly. But it’s also one of the important duties of being governor.”
How outrageous and disgusting. JB Pritzker signs the most anti-police legislation in Illinois history while his Prisoner Review Board lets cop-killers out of prison early – and his response to skyrocketing crime and the murders of police officers is to brag about attending the funerals of police officers?
“Governor Pritzker is responsible for the rise of crime in Illinois and to deflect criticism by bragging about his attendance at police funerals is absolutely reprehensible,” ILGOP Chairman Don Tracy said. “Pritzker thinks attending police funerals is one of the important duties of being governor. Well Governor, do you know what’s more important? Supporting police in jailing violent criminals so no one has to attend another funeral. The Governor turned his back on law enforcement and the law-abiding public by signing that anti-police, pro-criminal legislation.”
Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Friday defended his support for sweeping criminal justice reforms he signed into law last year and dismissed GOP candidate Richard Irvin’s accusation that it played a role in law enforcement officer deaths as unfounded political exaggeration.
“Richard Irvin is exaggerating because he doesn’t really understand the law. It seems like if you’re running for governor, you ought to understand the law. The law that he’s referring to is one that mostly doesn’t go into effect until next year,” Pritzker said of Irvin, the mayor of Aurora and one of five Republicans running for governor.
“He also misunderstands what that law is about. It would keep people in prison who could otherwise afford to get out of prison. These could be very violent criminals. And it allows people who are nonviolent criminals who may be in jail for a petty offense, and just don’t have $100, to get themselves out of jail,” the first-term governor said.
* Gov. Pritzker had this to say today before he took questions from reporters…
Judge Raylene Grischow’ ruling is out of step with the vast majority of legal analysis in Illinois and across the nation.
Most importantly, it constrains the ability of the named school districts to maintain safe, in-person learning requirements, as if kids need a minute more of remote learning when there are common sense tools that we have to reduce and prevent it.
The judge’s decision cultivates chaos for parents, families, teachers and school administrators across the state. And I’ve asked Attorney General Kwame Raoul to seek to have the ruling overturned with all possible speed.
For millions of Illinoisans wearing masks has never been about what was required by the governor or any other authority. No. Masks are, for most people anyway, have been about doing what’s right for yourself, for your loved ones, for others for your community as a whole. Nowhere is that more true than in schools, community hubs where parents and grandparents, teachers and staff interact with each other every day. Hundreds and even thousands of people in a community are affected when there’s an outbreak in a school that’s gone maskless. That effects not only whether a school will go remote, but also whether workers at local businesses will get sick, and therefore whether those businesses can stay open.
The Illinois schools that have not been named as a defendant in the lawsuit should continue to follow the prescribed public health protocols, which have proven to reduce school exclusion rates and have made it possible for our kids to continue learning safely in person. The districts who have reached a shared understanding with their labor unions must continue to follow the public health requirements in those agreements as well.
Masks work, which is why Illinois is leading the Midwest in its pandemic response. Masks keep kids safely in school in person, which we all want. Across the state, the nation and the world the evidence is there, whether or not you want to look at it. In the moment that we’re in right now, masks are a proven tool, not a new feature of life, but a tool to get us through this time. By and large the people of Illinois have kept their masks on to keep everyone safe. And thankfully, we’ve seen our COVID metrics go in the right direction.
We’ve already seen Northeastern states where omicron hit first, like New Jersey, see the signs that they need to lift these protocols, namely decreased hospitalizations. As Dr. Ezike and I cautiously noted, that for a few weeks from now, our COVID rates are also moving in the right direction. And as I said last week, I hope to provide some additional guidance in coming day as we continue to evaluate the numbers. As we’ve been doing from the start, we are following the science.
As for this specific case, poor legal reasoning should not take one of our most effective tools off the table. So, again, I’ve asked the Attorney General to continue to aggressively appeal this decision so that school districts can do what they need to do to keep students, staff and community safe and happy to take any questions.
Q: The governor of New Jersey, a Democrat, just announced that no more masks in schools, beginning the second week of March. Everyone wants to know, what metrics are you going to use to remove mask mandates in schools and in the state and get rid of the vaccine passports? [He already answered that in his opening remarks, but Amy apparently wasn’t listening.]
A: Hospitalizations, hospitalizations, hospitalizations. I’ve been saying that for quite some time now. As you know, we reached an all-time high in hospitalizations at around 7400. … When the mask requirements were removed last summer, I don’t know if anybody remembers that, I think we all were very optimistic. We saw those numbers take a dive, the hospitalization numbers take a dive. We watched very carefully. We saw for two incubation periods that things kept moving in the right direction. And indeed, I believe, on June 11, we removed mask mandates. Then, a month and a half later or so, we saw these numbers start to rise. We became concerned in particular about schools coming back in and the transmission of the virus through schools into communities. And so we began to ask people to put masks back on. That’s going to be something we’re going to have to consider all the way along here. Even when if we remove the requirement that people wear masks in various settings, there may come a time in the future when we would want people to put their masks back on. That’s why we’re fighting this case and appealing this case.
Q: What numbers? Could you be more specific? Where should the hospitalizations be?
A: Well, significantly below the peak that we were at. As you know we’re a little less than about half of what that number was. And so you know, again, we’re watching very carefully. I’m listening to the doctors about what numbers they believe are correct. And no doubt we are heading in the right direction. So you’ll be hearing more about that.
Q: Dr. Ezike keeps saying we hit 400 cases a day we’ll drop the mask mandate. Is it her decision, or is it your decision? Because last I checked, she’s not an elected official. But she every day, every week, when we go to the press conference, she says…
A: Do you want non-scientists, non-doctors to make decisions that will affect seriously the health and lives of the people of Illinois with an epidemic that we have seen, a pandemic that we have seen? The answer is yes, of course, the ultimate decision is mine. But you want me listening to the best experts that we have. And I do and it includes our Department of Public Health. But also as you know, we’ve got some of the best epidemiologists in the world here in Illinois at private institutions, at public institutions. And I rely upon them as well talking to them on a regular basis.
Q: What do you tell superintendents right now who are trying to figure out what to do? I mean are there tools the state can give them? Are there updates on when you think there’s going to be a decision? My kids’ superintendent was saying, imploring parents not to send their kids to school without masks. So, for the people on the frontlines, what can you do to help?
A: Well, the judge has created a tremendous amount of confusion, even in the way she wrote her decision. So that has been problematic. We’ve asked and did in fact, have the Attorney General Staff talking to the staffs of schools all across the state over the weekend, to give them their best advice and allowing them to make decisions for themselves, of course. But we want to make sure that we’re getting an appeal heard as soon as possible so that we can, you know, rid ourselves of the fog of the, frankly, not good decision by the Sangamon County Court. […]
Q: Your opponents… are going to say you created chaos, not the judge…
A: This virus created chaos. Let’s face it, I mean, all of our lives have been upended by a virus that no one expected. And then the question is, what is the human reaction? What is our community, our state’s reaction to that? And we have reacted in a way that has saved lives, and we have the best rate of vaccinations in the Midwest, we have a tremendous record of keeping people healthy and alive during this terrible time that we’ve been in. And it’s because we have these tools.
Leadership in times like these does not dance idly wherever the wind might blow. Leadership in times like these means having the courage to stand on deck while the waves crash around you and you keep the ship pointing toward home.
The din of a crisis is when a carnival barker’s shout becomes a whisper soft enough to find the ears of the sick or worried or grieving or scared…and the poison they worm into the hearts of the vulnerable is that it’s “those people” …the ones who live in that city, the ones who worship at that altar, the ones who were born in that place…who are responsible for the hard times.
It’s a playbook as old as the play. And it’s that kind of thinking I am asking you to reject in this moment.
* Dave Dahl followed up with some real life carneys…
“I’d like to correct the governor, if I may. They’ve always been referred to in the profession as talkers,” said Lee Stevens, past president of the International Independent Showmen’s Association. “Not barkers.”
Adding her voice to the chorus to defend the honor of circus performers and carnival workers is Amancay Kugler of Chicago. She uses the lyra – a hoop strung high in the air, not unlike a trapeze.
Kugler says Pritzker is not the first, nor will he be the last, to try to smear someone with the performers’ good name. “Even (then-President Barack) Obama in 2011 referred to Donald Trump as a carnival barker, which was very distressing for real carnival workers,” she said with a laugh, “to be compared to that man.” […]
“Clowns are very hardworking people,” she said after a pause. “Honestly, I’ve done clowning workshops. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and I routinely hang from one elbow twenty feet in the air.”
In other words, calling a politician a clown is offensive – to clowns.
Heh.
I asked about this over the weekend and was half-jokingly told by a top Pritzker official that they had already decided to move on from “carnival barkers” to “spelunkers of misery”…
Contrary to those folks who spend their time orbiting Illinois politics just spelunking for misery, our state has a lot to be proud of.
On a related note, Pritzker’s press secretary yesterday made her own contribution to excellence in journalism by introducing a new Twitter hashtag to use on critics — #spelunkingformisery. That’s from Jordan Abudayyeh, who was the first appointment to the task force.
What the hell does spelunkingformisery mean, you ask? Well in his Wednesday State of the State speech Pritzker expanded on the usual “carnival barkers” label he uses on us critics. We are “folks who spend their time orbiting Illinois politics just spelunking for misery,” he said. Abudayyeh’s colleagues apparently were impressed with her creativity. Christian Mitchell and Andy Manar, both deputy governors, began using the hashtag.
Now, I happen to know some actual spelunkers. They are swell people. I can’t imagine the pain they must feel seeing spelunking used as part of an insult. So, on their behalf, I hereby demand addition to the Local Journalism Task Force of one member of the Illinois Spelunkers Association.
That piece was probably the wittiest thing the pointy wires guy has ever written.
…Adding… The BGA’S David Greising has been eagerly inviting Illinoisans into Ken Griffin’s anti-tax carnival tent for years and is a noted misery spelunker, yet professes ignorance and throws in what looks like a fat joke in his own op-ed…
Such truths, he claimed, were not seen by “those folks who spend their time orbiting Illinois politics just spelunking for misery.”
I’m not sure who those people are, or what caves they crawled out of. But they must have spurned deep-fried Twinkies at the state fair to get Pritzker so ticked.
I’d say that was clownish behavior on Greising’s part, but I’ve taken Ms. Kugler’s comments to heart. /s
* Associated Press story on the governor’s proposal to freeze the Motor Fuel Tax for a fiscal year…
ISN’T ILLINOIS GETTING FEDERAL INFRASTRUCTURE MONEY?
That’s another reason Pritzker feels confident. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that President Joe Biden signed in November will bring Illinois $3.8 billion over the next five years in addition to $14 billion already planned, according to the [Transportation for Illinois Coalition].
THEN WHY ARE TRANSPORTATION ADVOCATES COMPLAINING?
Because they say the need is so great. The money generated in the Rebuild Illinois plan was not enough to fix all the problems in the state, [Transportation for Illinois Coalition co-chair Kevin Burke] said.
And even with additional federal money, the state shouldn’t back off, said Ed Maher, spokesman for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150.
“It’s not as though we started this on a level playing field,” Maher said. “Our infrastructure was underfunded for decades so we’ve got a massive game of catch-up to play here. Now is not the time to start taking money out of that.”
Roughly a third of the nation’s 620,000 bridges — 36% — need major repair work or replacement, a new report finds.
Why it matters: Deferred maintenance, climate change and heavier-than-anticipated traffic are causing bridges to wear out earlier than expected, and engineers say not enough is being done to keep drivers safe.
Driving the news: More than 43,500 U.S. bridges are in poor enough condition to be deemed “structurally deficient,” according to the report by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA).
• Of the 26,846 bridges in the state, 2,405, or 9.0 percent, are classified as structurally deficient. This means one of the key elements is in poor or worse condition.
• This is up from 2,224 bridges classified as structurally deficient in 2017.
• The deck area of structurally deficient bridges accounts for 12.2 percent of total deck area on all structures.
• 171 of the structurally deficient bridges are on the Interstate Highway System. A total of 83.5 percent of the structurally deficient bridges are not on the National Highway System, which includes the Interstate and other key roads linking major airports, ports, rail and truck terminals.
• 1,178 bridges are posted for load, which may restrict the size and weight of vehicles crossing the structure.
• The state has identified needed repairs on 4,099 bridges at an estimated cost of $6.4 billion.
• This compares to 4,035 bridges that needed work in 2017.
* The top five most-traveled bridges dubbed structurally deficient…
I- 90,94 Elev Exp over Stewart Ave to 28 Pl [Cook County]
I- 90,94 Ryan Elev over 18th to 22nd Sts [Cook County]
I- 90,94 Ryan Elev over 22nd to SB Chi Rvr [Cook County]
I- 94 Bishop Ford over RR - Ihb & CSXt [Cook County]
I- 55 over Madison St [DuPage County]
104 urban interstate bridges are structurally deficient, the group says.
I think by now you can see why Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s campaign spent so much money over the past month or so on TV and digital ads touting the state’s improved fiscal position.
Illinoisans have been (accurately) fed fiscal horror stories about their state for decades. I don’t have to tell you that Illinois is infamous for its fiscal ineptitude on a grand scale.
I wrote years ago that, collectively, we suck at governing. Huge pension debts, constantly on the verge of a junk bond rating from New York, a narrow tax base that doesn’t tap into services and upper incomes, and governors who either don’t care about the consequences of their decisions or are too inept to fix or ameliorate the problems they know exist.
So, those ads, I believe, were aired in order to prepare the ground for the governor’s budget proposal he submitted this past week.
“For the first time in more than 20 years,” a television news anchor says in one of the ads, “a bond ratings agency upgraded Illinois’ credit rating.”
“This upgrade means lower costs for taxpayers,” another anchor explains.
“J.B.’s straightening out the state’s finances, passing balanced budgets and getting bills paid on time,” a guy named Bill Hincks claims in another ad.
Team Pritzker could see the spending and revenue numbers as they came in for the past few months, and they knew the state had at least temporarily turned the corner.
But they also likely knew they needed to get the word out there before the governor laid out his new budget, which will pay down debt and temporarily cut taxes so people would be more likely to buy into it.
“For years in Illinois, they left bills unpaid, ruined our credit and racked up over a billion dollars in interest penalties,” Pritzker said in an ad that started running in early January. “As governor, I was determined to help fix the financial mess. Now, Illinois is keeping its promises by passing real balanced budgets. We’re cutting costs, paying bills on time and paying down our debt — saving taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. And our credit rating has been upgraded for the first time in 20 years.”
The Illinois Republican Party responded to that spot by claiming the governor was “launching a new political ad that laughably tries to convince Illinois families ‘we’re on the right track.’” Everyone pretty much believes the state is messed up, so it’s not a difficult pitch to make.
But then came last week’s budget address.
Pritzker proposed $1 billion, one-year tax cut that was widely derided by Republicans who didn’t mention that two top House Republicans had proposed an eerily similar temporary tax cut a couple of months ago.
One of those two Republicans is now Republican gubernatorial candidate Richard Irvin’s running mate. Irvin has called the tax cut a “gimmick” and an attempt to “buy off” voters. I haven’t yet had a chance to ask him about his running mate’s plan.
The governor also wants to direct an extra half billion into the state’s pension systems to pay down debt, which he says will save taxpayers $1.8 billion in the long run.
The College Illinois savings program was deeply in debt, so Pritzker wants to wipe it out with $230 million, which will save taxpayers even more money down the road.
Almost $900 million will go to pay off a health insurance debt the state has had for longer than I can remember. And $800 million will be deposited into the state’s empty rainy-day fund.
The Republicans objected, saying it was all an illusion. The budget coffers are overflowing with money because of federal stimulus programs. They’re not wrong, but those things I mentioned were all one-time expenditures.
Hey, we’ll see how long this fiscal bliss lasts. One of the reasons these tax cuts and other budgetary moves are one-year plans is because things could go south in a hurry if the federal stimulus programs really do end, and state and local governments are again left to fend for themselves.
And if we slide into recession, then Illinois could wind up right back where it started: in a very deep hole.
But if it all eventually goes to heck in a handbasket again, I can at least look back with a smile on this relatively brief window of financial pleasantness when I’m old and decrepit. It’s really quite nice. I hope we can keep it this way. But this is Illinois, after all.
February 7, 2022
Leader Jim Durkin
316 State House
Springfield, Illinois 62706
Leader Durkin,
I was recently asked in a public radio interview if I was worried about the future of our democracy. While I truly believe our great American experiment will prevail, I am growing increasingly worried about the incivility and disrespect that has become near commonplace in political discourse.
Less than 5 hours after I answered that question about our democracy, another one of our Democratic colleagues was forced to close her office due to repeated death threats against her and her family after a radical and dangerous disinformation campaign seized on yet another chance to further divide our citizens. The situation was made worse when a member of your Republican caucus issued a statement fanning the flames of this vitriol with the same inaccurate information. I sincerely hope the representative is merely misinformed, in which I will call on you to set the record straight, because purposefully mischaracterizing the intentions of our colleagues for political gain must stop. If we are to restore public trust and faith in government, we must do it together with honesty, decency and respect for one another.
At least four of our Democratic colleagues have received threats against their lives, their loved ones or their place of worship in recent months. I know your caucus is no stranger to this unacceptable behavior, as we witnessed those who voted to end the Rauner budget impasse suffer a similar fate. We also saw this on full display at the national level when Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger was not only censured by his party for rightfully holding former President Donald Trump accountable for a deadly insurrection on our U.S. Capitol, but was also shunned by his family and met with hostility from far-right constituents. We’ve all watched this intolerant partisanship worsen each year poisoning our politics, and it is now seeping into the crevasses of our daily lives.
I write to you not to blame a single ideology or political party; we all share responsibility to ensure civility remains in our politics. But, it is time we take an active role in finding and being a part of the solution. If we are to restore common courtesy and civil disagreements that the very fabric of our democracy relies upon, it must start with us as leaders.
I say often, Illinois’ great strength is our diversity. But, it’s our unity that helps us forge a brighter path for tomorrow. I hope you can work with me to help heal our increasingly divided state by standing firm for our democratic values and always operating with mutual respect for all people. There are times when we will fundamentally disagree, but it’s our right and our responsibility to find solutions, areas of compromise and a common purpose in government.
Let’s make a conscious effort to bring civility back to Springfield. I hope you’ll join me. Sincerely,
Emanuel “Chris” Welch
Speaker of the House
I have asked Leader Durkin’s spokesperson for a response.
*** UPDATE *** Leader Durkin’s response…
February 7, 2022
House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch
Room 300 Illinois State Capitol
Springfield, IL 62706
Speaker Welch,
As I reflect on the state of politics today, I firmly believe we are a better General Assembly and a better state when respectful voices are heard. As elected officials, we all share a great passion for the direction of Illinois, but when words and actions cross the line from disagreement to threats, I will always speak up as I have done on this issue. No one in a free society should ever be tolerant of threats.
I am not immune to the constant barrage of threats and harassment, nor are members of my caucus, but we can never let the fringe elements that neither party is immune from control the narrative. In an effort to be part of the solution, I encourage you to allow the voices of the minority party to be heard and not continue to be disregarded. Cooperation and civility is a two-way street. I will always commit to intellectual integrity, honesty and fair play – a better approach.
Smash-and-grab organized retail theft has clobbered stores throughout the Chicago area—and new draft legislation designed to crack down on it, to be unveiled later today, appears to have a pretty good head of steam behind it.
At a mid-morning press conference, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association and Attorney General Kwame Raoul are scheduled to talk about a pending package that would create a new criminal offense—organized retail crime—and make it much easier for prosecutors to pursue cases of so-called flash mob theft.
The agreement in principle has not yet been filed as an actual bill, but according to IRMA chief Rob Karr has received “very positive feedback” from legislative leaders in private briefings in recent days. “I’m optimistic about getting their support,” Karr told me in a phone call.
* Press release…
With organized retail crime plaguing neighborhoods across Chicago and communities throughout the state, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association in partnership with Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced a sweeping proposal to combat these criminal rings, prevent illicit trade and provide retailers additional tools to protect the safety of employees and customers.
The proposal represents one of the most comprehensive efforts in the nation to combat organized retail crime by addressing the problem from multiple angles. This includes providing prosecutors with more tools to hold criminals accountable, dedicating state funds to investigate and prosecute the criminal rings carrying out these brazen thefts, requiring more oversight of third-party marketplaces where stolen goods are sold, stronger rights for victims of organized retail crime and the creation of statewide intelligence gathering and sharing platform to allow retailers and law enforcement agencies to better coordinate.
“The impact of organized retail crime reaches far and wide, threatening the safety of employees and customers and putting our communities at risk of further crime including illegal firearm purchases, human trafficking and even terrorism,” said Rob Karr, president & CEO, IRMA. “We are proud to stand with Attorney General Raoul to propose real changes that will aid retailers, protect our employees and consumers and provide for safer communities across the state. We look forward to working with the leaders and legislators in the House and Senate to implement these important changes.”
The proposal calls for the creation of the Organized Retail Crime Act, providing the emphasis and focus required to combat this dangerous form of retail theft, which is usually performed by criminal groups with the goal of reselling stolen items to fund illicit activities. Those participating in smash and grab robberies as well as the looting of supply chain vehicles could be prosecuted for organized retail crime. Prosecutors would be given wider discretion to bring charges regardless of where the crime takes place. For instance, if the conspiracy, theft, and selling all occurred in different jurisdictions, each jurisdiction would have the ability to prosecute the whole crime.
In addition, those participating in organized retail crime could be prosecuted by the Attorney General via the Statewide Grand Jury. This would give law enforcement officials another avenue by which to hold leaders of criminal rings accountable. Further, victims of organized retail crime must be given at least seven days’ notice of all court proceedings, which must be sent to the establishment where the crime occurred as well as any persons the victims designate.
To support these efforts, the proposal calls for earmarking state funds on an annual basis to create new positions in the Attorney General’s office and various State’s Attorneys offices across the state solely dedicated to investigating and prosecuting retail theft and illicit trade. To qualify for funding, officials must agree to prosecute offenders and seek state-imposed penalties, as well as meet annual reporting requirements that includes but is not limited to information about arrest and conviction rates, sentencing information and value of goods recovered.
“We cannot make the mistake of looking at organized retail crimes as being isolated events if we are to fully address the problem,” said Attorney General Kwame Raoul. “I established an Organized Retail Crime Task Force because collaborations between law enforcement, the retail industry and government are critical to interrupting the criminal enterprise behind these crimes, which are frequently connected to drug and human trafficking. I appreciate the partnership of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association as we continue working to protect communities from organized retail crime and the criminal organizations behind it.”
The proposal builds on the work of the Attorney General’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force, which is designed to investigate these crimes and trace them to their source. In December, the task force and the Chicago Police Department Force recovered stolen good worth millions of dollars during a sting operation. IRMA also works with the United to Safeguard American from Illicit Trade (USA-IT) Coalition, which aims to address organized retail crime at the national level.
Increasingly, goods stolen during the execution of organized retail crime are often sold on third party electronic marketplaces. The proposal would require these online marketplaces to verify the identity of high-volume sellers using bank account numbers, taxpayer IDs or other information. Those sellers would be required to provide valid contact information, and marketplaces would be required to suspend the activity of third-party sellers for non-compliance. This is a vital public safety component as these sales are used to fund illegal activity including drug trade, weapons smuggling, human trafficking and terrorism. The proposal is identical to the agreed proposal being sponsored in Washington, D.C. by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.
Organized retail crime has increased 60 percent in the last five years and is carried out by organized criminal rings that steal products and resell them, often online. A recent study by the Retail Industry Leaders Association found that as much as $68.9 billion in products were stolen from retailers nationwide in 2019, with retail crime resulting in $125.7 billion in lost economic activity and 658,375 fewer jobs. It’s estimated that retail theft costs federal and state governments nearly $15 billion in personal and business tax revenues, not including sales tax losses. These are conservative estimates as some jurisdictions discourage organized retail theft complaints and prosecutions.
The online sales thing seems more like a federal issue, but what do you think of it all?
…Adding… Steve Kim campaign…
Attorney General Candidate Steve Kim released the following statement on today’s news.
“JB Pritzker and Kwame Raoul’s anti-law enforcement bill provided an out for criminals who take part in flash mob theft, and now they are trying to cover up for themselves. Crime is out of control in Chicago and across the state. Small and family owned businesses are faced with the fear that they may be the next target, and now those offenders could be back on the street instead of serving time for impacting the livelihoods of business owners and community residents. This one party rule has led to rising crime, economic downturn, and needs to change.”
Students attending one of the 145 schools across Illinois who are part of a sweeping lawsuit won’t have to wear a mask if they don’t want to, unless they’re given due process. Same goes for certain school staff who don’t want to take weekly COVID-19 tests for not being vaccinated. They must also have due process.
In a 30-page ruling late Friday, Sangamon County Circuit Court Judge Raylene Grischow “deemed null and void” the governor’s emergency rules through the Illinois Department of Public Health concerning COVID-19 mitigations for schools.
“The arbitrary method as to contact tracing and masking in general continue to raise fair questions as to the legality of the Executive Orders in light of violations of healthy children’s substantive due process rights,” Grischow wrote. “Statutory rights have attempted to be bypassed through the issuance of Executive Orders and Emergency Rules … This type of evil is exactly what the law was intended to constrain.”
Schools impacted by litigation brought by more than 700 parents and dozens of school staff are temporarily restrained from enforcing Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s COVID-19 mask and vaccine mandates.
Pritzker’s mandates for masks and exclusion policies in schools and vaccines or testing for teachers have been in place since last fall.
The Illinois General Assembly had foresight when it created certain provisions limiting the authority of administrative agencies. When the Legislature created our laws, they did so knowing individuals have a fundamental right to due process when one’s liberty and freedom is taken away by forcing them to do something not otherwise required of all other citizens. Illinois law prohibits ISBE from making policies affecting school districts which have the effect of rules without following the procedures of the IAPA. Absent this statutory provision, ISBE would be able to on impulse, and depending on who held the Executive Branch, mandate whatever it felt necessary in the most arbitrary and capricious manner without having to follow any due process under the IAPA. As for the matters at hand, it is clear IDPH/ISBE were attempting to force local school districts to comply with this guidance without any compliance with rulemaking. This type of evil is exactly what the law was intended to constrain.
Moreover, the Joint Guidance is attempting to cloak the local school districts with the authority to mandate masks and require vaccination or testing without compliance with any due process under the IDPH Act. The Court has already ruled masks are a device intended to stop the spread of an infectious/contagious disease, and thus are a type of quarantine, and vaccination and testing are specifically covered under the IDPH Act, and as such any attempt to circumvent the statutory due process rights of the Plaintiffs by this Joint Guidance is void. Under no circumstances can guidance be issued which violates a statute. […]
The Court is told by the Defendants, should this Court grant relief to the Plaintiffs, the students in the districts, and the public as a whole, will be harmed by the further spread of COVID. While the Defendants offer no direct evidence of such a proposition, attached to their pleadings were affidavits of medical professionals who opined that masking, vaccination or testing, and other mitigations are the best chance of controlling the spread of COVID. It is worth noting the Plaintiffs do not seek any order of this Court dismantling masking, vaccination or testing policies in their totality. Only that due process under the law be afforded to them should they choose to object to being quarantined, which by definition includes masks, as well as being subjected to vaccination or testing. These Plaintiffs are not asking for anything other than what the Legislature said they were entitled. […]
Given the Legislature has changed the law and has chosen not change these relevant provisions, this Court must conclude the laws which have long been in place to protect the competing interests of individual liberty and public health satisfactorily balance these interest in the eyes of the Legislative branch of government. While the Defendants would seemingly ask this Court to second guess the Legislature’s adopted measures to prevent the spread of an infectious disease, which measures include due process of law, it will not do so.
Section 690 of Title 77 of the Illinois Administrative Code has been around since 1977. All State actors and citizens have operated under those set standards up to and including a time period when our State (and Nation) was faced with another highly contagious disease. In 2014, Ebola reared its ugly head and caused a number of public health challenges. As a result, the IDPH passed Emergency Rules that added new definitions for “quarantine, modified” and “quarantine, isolated” and amended the definitions of quarantine and isolation to include those new concepts. The IDPH, at that time, believed exclusion from school, due to a highly infectious or contagious disease (such as Ebola), was a form of quarantine, subject to the due process procedures as found in the IDPH Act. Those emergency amendments noted that IDPH and local health departments needed to have clear authority to monitor and restrict persons who were potentially at risk.
Since 2014 and prior to the recent 2021 Emergency Rules, tests and vaccines were also considered a form of “modified quarantine” because they were a procedures “intended to limit disease transmission.” Under the IDPH Act, individuals had the right to object to these procedures. If they objected, they were afforded due process of law. Likewise, “exclusion from school” was also a form of “modified quarantine” because it was considered a partial limitation on freedom of movement for those who may have been exposed to a contagious disease. At no time did the 2014 emergency amendments take away a person’s due process rights.
On September 17, 2021, under the guise of an emergency, the Emergency Rules deleted or modified these terms and definitions. Subsection (d) was added pertaining to schools and added a new provision which delegated authority to the local school districts to require vaccination, masking, and testing of school personnel, in addition to masking for all students regardless of vaccine status, exclusion from school, and testing for unvaccinated, healthy students who were deemed “close contacts” by the school. The question before this Court is whether the Governor, under his executive authority, can require his agencies to promulgate emergency rules that go beyond what the Legislature intended or without utilizing the legislative branch of government.
1) The IDPH Emergency Rules enacted on September 17, 2021 changing sections 690.10 (Definitions); 690.361(d) (Schools), 690.1380 (Physical Examination; Testing and Collection of Laboratory Specimens), and 690.1385 (Vaccinations, Medications, or Other Treatments) of Title 77 of the Illinois Administrative Code is deemed null and void;
2) ISBE Emergency Rule enacted on September 17, 2021, Part 6, Mandatory Vaccinations for School Personnel is deemed null and void;4
3) Defendants are temporarily restrained from:
a. Enforcement of EO18, EO24, EO25 as they pertain to the issue before the Court and the Emergency Rules issued by the IDPH and ISBE;
b. Ordering school districts require the use of masks for students and teachers who occupy their buildings, if they object, except during the terms of lawful order of quarantine issued from their respective health department, in accordance with the IDPH Act;
c. Ordering school districts to require persons who are both unvaccinated and work in Illinois schools to provide weekly negative results of an approved COVID-19 test or be vaccinated if they object in order to occupy the school building without first providing them due process of law; and
d. Ordering school districts to refuse admittance to their buildings for teachers and students for specified periods of time if the teacher or student is deemed a “close contact” of a confirmed probable COVID-19 case without providing due process to that individual if they object, unless the local health department has deemed the individual a close contact after following the procedures outlined in 20 ILCS 2305 and 77 Ill. Adm. Code 690.1330.
4) This temporary restraining order shall remain in full force and effect pending trial on the merits unless sooner modified or dissolved.
[Footnote] Although this Court denied Plaintiffs’ request for Class Certification in Case No: 2021 -CH-500002, this Court has declared IDPH’s Emergency Rules void. Any non-named Plaintiffs and School Districts throughout this State may govern themselves accordingly.
So, the judge believes that her TRO applies statewide?
*** UPDATE 1 *** Press release…
Governor Pritzker has asked the Illinois Attorney General’s office for an immediate appeal of Judge Grischow’s decision to restrain the State from enforcing the safety measures aimed at protecting teachers, school personnel, students and communities from COVID-19.
The Attorney General is seeking an expedited appeal from the Fourth District Illinois Appellate Court.
“The grave consequence of this misguided decision is that schools in these districts no longer have sufficient tools to keep students and staff safe while COVID-19 continues to threaten our communities – and this may force schools to go remote,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This shows yet again that the mask mandate and school exclusion protocols are essential tools to keep schools open and everyone safe. As we have from the beginning of the pandemic, the administration will keep working to ensure every Illinoisan has the tools needed to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.”
“We remain committed to defending Gov. Pritzker’s actions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and will appeal this decision in the Illinois Appellate Court for the 4th District in Springfield,” said Attorney General Kwame Raoul. “This decision sends the message that all students do not have the same right to safely access schools and classrooms in Illinois, particularly if they have disabilities or other health concerns. The court’s misguided decision is wrong on the law, demonstrates a misunderstanding of Illinois emergency injunction proceedings and has no relation to the record that was before the court. It prioritizes a relatively small group of plaintiffs who refuse to follow widely-accepted science over the rights of other students, faculty and staff to enter schools without the fear of contracting a virus that has claimed the lives of more than 31,000 Illinois residents – or taking that virus home to their loved ones.”
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pritzker administration has implemented mitigations and programming to protect the health and safety of students, teachers, and staff in schools. To facilitate safe in-person learning, the administration has provided schools across the state with 3.8 million masks for students, teachers, and staff as of January 12th. The State has completed over 2 million COVID-19 tests in schools through the SHIELD program and sent more than a million rapid tests into schools outside of the City of Chicago. Recently, the State provided 350,000 rapid tests to Chicago Public Schools to facilitate a return to in person learning.
To increase access to the lifesaving COVID-19 vaccination, the State has held 1,767 on-site vaccination clinics in schools and day camps with an additional 470 clinics already scheduled. Vaccinations, boosters, mask-wearing and testing are the key to keeping schools open and to maintaining safety standards for staff and students alike.
*** UPDATE 2 *** IEA…
The Illinois Education Association (IEA) President Kathi Griffin released the following statement after a ruling by Sangamon County Judge Raylene Grischow on the temporary restraining order (TRO) that would prohibit enforcement of face masks, vaccination, and Covid testing mandates.
“This decision has the potential to shut our schools down, effectively closing our school buildings and perhaps being potent enough to stop in person learning altogether. We’ve been able to have students in classrooms all over the state for this school year and last and that’s because public health safety measures have been taken that follow the advice of scientists and health care professionals. Without those safety measures in place, we risk forcing thousands of teachers, education employees and students to be out sick or forced into quarantine.
The teacher and education employee shortage is at a crisis level. Schools are shutting down because they do not have enough healthy employees to safely hold classes even though staff continue to give up their plan time and lunches to cover classes. The science is there: masking, along with vaccines, testing, social distancing and quarantining, are the best ways to protect against the virus. Removing any of these protections would be detrimental to our students and staff safety and will almost certainly force schools across the state to close because of a staffing shortage. Omicron is proof to us that though we may be done with the virus, the virus is not done with us.
Keeping students in the classroom is so important, but only if the environment is safe. The judge’s ruling today calls into question the safety of schools across the state and we will support all efforts to stop its immediate implementation while state and district defendants pursue an appeal. Keeping learning and working conditions safe inside schools is imperative to keep our communities safe and our school buildings open for in person learning. ”
* IFT…
Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) President Dan Montgomery issued this statement today following the ruling by Sangamon County Judge Raylene Grischow on the temporary restraining order (TRO) that would prohibit enforcement of face masks, vaccination, and Covid testing mandates.
“The Illinois Federation of Teachers is greatly distressed at the judge’s temporary restraining order (TRO) in this case. Hundreds of thousands of students, teachers, and staff across Illinois are doing their best to remain healthy and keep schools open. We believe what the judge ordered today is legally faulty and a threat to public health and, most importantly, a threat to keeping Illinois schools open for in-person learning. Our children and their families need certainty and some normalcy at school, not legal wrangling managed by a small minority of citizens.
“We urge the judge to stay her ruling and the state to appeal it as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will continue to advise our members on how to remain safe and healthy at work. We insist that school districts statewide abide by existing agreements on health and safety. In fact, the safety mitigations encompassed by the State’s guidance, as well as vaccinations for children and adults, are the best ways to keep schools open and everyone healthy. And we will stand with our local unions to protect our members and the students they serve.”
This ruling also states that collectively bargained agreements are still enforceable. Our January 2022 agreement with Chicago Public Schools, which guarantees masking, will keep schools open and safe.
CTU members made real sacrifices in January to bargain for an enforceable safety agreement with Mayor Lightfoot’s CPS team, and today that agreement guarantees masking and other critical protections that will allow us to protect our school communities.
While responsible school districts and community groups prepare to challenge this decision on appeal, we expect the mayor and CPS to act responsibly and uphold our agreement to require masks — providing KN95 masks for every adult and child in our schools. This is what the overwhelming majority of Chicago parents and families support.
We should not have to fight every inch for basic protection, but such are the times in which we live, where the few can trump the safety of the many. So we will continue to fight for the right to recovery for all of our students and school communities.
*** UPDATE 3 *** Let’s look at some coverage. Tribune…
The judge’s ruling means that any school district that attempts to enforce the mask requirement against any student whose parents joined the lawsuit would be held in contempt of court, according to DeVore, who said parents who want the ruling to apply to their children can join the lawsuit.
DeVore, an outspoken critic of Pritzker’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, has long argued that the school mask mandate and other mitigation strategies the governor has declared by executive order could not be enforced unless they were formally approved by the General Assembly.
“I don’t pretend to understand the political complexities at Chicago Public Schools, but I do know the law can’t be disregarded, and you’ve got a judge who upheld the law as it’s written,” DeVore said shortly after Judge Grischow issued the ruling.
CPS officials were not immediately available for comment Friday.
But in a recent parent message, CPS CEO Pedro Martinez said if the temporary restraining order was granted, it “would require that CPS stop the enforcement of certain current health and safety protocols, including the wearing of masks.”
“The Plaintiffs have due process rights under the law which provide them a meaningful opportunity to object to any such mitigations being levied against them, and it is these due process rights which are being continually violated.”
“The Governor, IDPH, and ISBE all attempted to remove the judiciary from oversight in matters related to all forms of “quarantine” through the issuance of the Executive Orders and Emergency Rules in question, which fail to maintain the separate branches of government clearly intended by the Legislature in the implementation of the IDPH Act!” […]
Jacksonville School District #117 Superintendent Steve Ptacek alerted families to the ruling via social media Friday night. Jacksonville is one of the districts named in the lawsuit. […]
“I just received notification that the defendants have filed a “Stay” of the TRO and this will be heard over the weekend. Therefore, we have no clue what the legal ruling will be before Monday morning. It is going to be a long, interesting weekend,” Ptacek wrote.
First, the Court should stay its TRO because the anticipated duration of the stay pending appeal is short, and will not prejudice any party. Under Ill. S. Ct. R. 307, briefing an appeal of a temporary restraining order must be completed within four business days of the issuance of the order being appealed, and the Appellate Court will rule on that appeal within five business days thereafter. Accordingly, any appeal will be resolved within two weeks. A stay for such a short period will not prejudice Plaintiffs. Indeed, given that Plaintiffs waited months after filing this case to pursue a TRO, they can hardly claim that a two week stay will cause them undue prejudice or harm.
Second, the Court should stay its TRO because the record in the form of declarations of public health experts, Dr. Susan Bleasdale and Dr. Allison Arwady, unrebutted by any evidence presented by Plaintiffs, is that the Court’s TRO is likely to (a) disrupt the ability of schools to continue in-person instruction, and (b) cause an increase in sickness, and possibly death. … Conversely, Plaintiffs face the minimal inconvenience associated with wearing a mask, or the possibility of a brief exclusion from school premises during the pendency of an appeal.
Third, the State Parties incorporate by reference their arguments in opposition to Plaintiffs’ motions for emergency relief. From those submissions, and from the record in its entirety, Plaintiffs have not met their burden of showing a right in need of protection, a likelihood of success on the merits, irreparable harm, no adequate remedy at law, and that the balance of harms favors the issuance of an injunction to a degree sufficient to suggest that a stay pending appeal would be inappropriate.
*** UPDATE 5 *** CPS…
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has made the health, safety, and well being of our students and staff a top priority since the onset of the pandemic. The court’s current ruling does not prohibit CPS from exercising its authority to continue its COVID-19 mitigation policies and procedures, including universal masking by students and staff and vaccination and testing requirements for staff members. We are confident that masking and vaccination have been key parts of keeping the virus transmission low in our classrooms this school year and successfully allowed our faculty and students to safely teach and learn in person. Our caseload is declining and the number of vaccinated students and staff continues to increase. We will stay the course.
Background
Nearly 53 percent of CPS students across the District ages 12 and up are now fully vaccinated.
Almost 1 in 3 students, ages 5 - 11, have received at least one vaccine dose.
More than 91 percent of CPS staff members are fully vaccinated.
* IPHA…
The following statement is attributable to Tom Hughes, Executive Director of the Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA), in response to the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court ruling regarding COVID-19 vaccination and masking expectations in Illinois schools:
“Everyone is vulnerable to the damaging effects of COVID-19 and every bit of protection helps. While people are growing weary of the pandemic, the threat remains real for communities across Illinois who are still facing substantial transmission, causing far-reaching challenges to our most vital health resources.
Vaccination and well-fitting masks are proven and critical tools to reduce the spread of COVID-19. With these essential public health practices in place, we are helping protect the most vulnerable around us, while allowing our schools to operate safely.
As coordinators of the Pandemic Health Navigator Program, IPHA continues to partner with community leaders to promote health and safety measures, such as mask wearing, quarantining, and vaccination. We will also continue educating residents so they can make informed decisions about vaccination.”
The attorney at the center of the school mask mandate case in which a 7th Judicial Circuit Court judge Friday granted a temporary restraining order against Gov. JB Pritzker’s executive order said school districts like Springfield’s are “on notice” about enforcing such policies.
“To the extent that the Springfield school district wants to continue forcing these mask and vaccination policies, they’re doing it at their own peril because the judge has said it’s illegal,” said attorney Thomas DeVore of Greenville, who represented the plaintiffs in several cases against the state. “If they wanted to continue in their illegal behavior, even if there’s no injunction stopping them, they’re exposing themselves to significant financial liability.” […]
Absent any further legal rulings over the weekend, DeVore said if a student showed up to school in Springfield without a mask on, “that school district has a decision to make. Are we going to continue to enforce this and say put your mask on knowing that the judge says they don’t have the authority to do so?
“That’s the spot these school districts are at. I think children and parents are well within their rights to say it doesn’t matter that this case doesn’t directly involve me. The judge says as a whole, none of you have this authority. So my kid’s walking in, and if you’re going to try to force him to wear a mask merely because they’re not on this case, I’m letting you know right now I’m going to sue you. They could.”
*** UPDATE 7 *** Edwardsville superintendent…
Dear District #7 staff,
On Friday, January 4, 2022, Judge Grischow issued a ruling which granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in the litigation in which Edwardsville was a defendant. An appeal related to this case has already been filed, and future decisions will likely have an impact on the District #7 community.
As a result, District #7 will be taking the following steps beginning on Monday, February 7:
The individuals named as plaintiffs in the litigation will be able to attend school unmasked and will not be excluded as close contacts.
Each of the individuals/families will receive correspondence from their building principal prior to the start of school on Monday.
· Masks will continue to be required for all students and staff unless an individual has been impacted by court ruling or has an approved medical exemption for masking;
· Beginning immediately, we have secured KN95 masks for any staff member who wishes to have one. If you would like to have a KN95 mask, you may pick one up from the school office.
· Masking will continue to be required during Kid Zone (not for named plaintiffs), for athletic events (not for named plaintiffs), andon buses. The federal law still requires masks on buses. The court decision does not change this, and students who ride buses will still be required to wear masks.
· We will continue to implement other mitigating strategies in all our schools, including opportunities for vaccinations, social distancing to the greatest extent possible, district-wide testing, incorporating fresh air into the school environment, and cleaning and sanitizing on a regular basis.
I know many of you may have questions which specifically relate to your situation, your classroom, or other areas within District #7.
Highland, Waterloo and Red Bud students will not be required to wear masks when they return to classes on Monday. School leaders say they are following a temporary restraining order issued by a judge on Friday regarding mask and vaccine mandates.
Highland School District 5 Superintendent Mike Sutton said in a statement on Saturday that legal advice indicates that District 5 is “clearly instructed” to not enforce Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s executive orders requiring masks, quarantines when individuals do not have symptoms, and vaccine and testing mandates for employees.
“I am confident in saying that the district will not be enforcing the mask requirement and identifying close contacts for purposes of quarantine starting Monday morning per the judge’s ruling,” Sutton said in the statement posted on the district’s website.
* Carterville schools…
Dear Students and Parents,
Due to a written ruling from Judge Raylene Grischow of Sangamon County, Illinois on Friday, February 4th, Governor Pritzker’s executive orders and IDPH/ISBE requirements regarding masking, testing, and tracing are “null and void.” Masks are no longer required in our schools; however, masks are still recommended to be worn inside the schools as well as the continuance of all other layered mitigations in accordance with our Return to Learning Plan. Federal Transportation guidelines still require masks to be worn while on school transportation.
Students who test positive for COVID-19 will still have to isolate and we still want anyone that is sick to stay home. Close contacts of students and staff will not need to continue to quarantine unless directed by the local health department.
Keep in mind, this entire change of status is the result of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and has already been appealed by the Governor’s Office to the Fourth Appellate Court of Illinois for a decision. We will keep you apprised as the fluid situation continues to evolve.
Free testing and masks will still be available for those that are interested.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Defendants Jay Robert Pritzker, Illinois State Board of Education, Dr. Carmen I. Ayaka, Illinois Department of Public Health, and Dr. Ngozi Ezike, by their attorney, Kwame Raoul, Attorney General of the State of Illinois, hereby appeal to the Illinois Appellate Court, Fourth Judicial District, based on Illinois Supreme Court Rule 307(d), from the interlocutory order entered by the Honorable Judge Raylene Grishow of the Circuit Court for the Seventh Judicial Circuit, Sangamon County, Illinois, on February 4, 2022, which granted plaintiffs’ motion for a temporary restraining order. […]
By this appeal, Defendants Jay Robert Pritzker, Illinois State Board of Education, Dr. Carmen I. Ayaka, Illinois Department of Public Health, and Dr. Ngozi Ezike respectfully request that the appellate court reverse and vacate the circuit court’s order, dissolve the temporary restraining order, and grant any other appropriate relief.
When you liken the work of legislators to the deeds of the Nazis, you cheapen not only the memory of those murdered in the Holocaust, but those who fought to end the Nazi scourge. https://t.co/BC2ibzrdZjpic.twitter.com/2En4OQmI56
* OK, this is not recommended listening at all, but I feel strongly that at least some of the voicemails left for Rep. Deb Conroy about her innocuous bill ought to be shared. But I don’t think I’ve ever heard anything like this in all my years. They are profanity-laden, disgusting, misogynistic messages from hateful and violent-sounding people. You’ve been duly warned…
There’s more, but that’s all I could stomach posting for one day.
* The same strong admonition above applies to a sampling of the emails and social media posts directed at Rep. Conroy. Click here for the emails and click here for the social media posts.
* And these people helped gin up that ignorant hate. All decent DuPage County Republicans should forcefully denounce this despicable behavior being done in their names…
2)HB4244 calls for involuntary vaccine registry & HB4640 allows Dpt of Health to "isolate/quarantine ppl whose refusal to undergo observation/monitoring results in uncertainty regarding whether he/she has been exposed or is infected w/a dangerously contagious infectious disease"
Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Rep. Robin Kelly released the following statement regarding the threats against State Rep. Deb Conroy:
“The vile, disgusting, and disgraceful threats against Rep. Conroy are deeply disturbing. No one in Illinois should condone this type of violent rhetoric and no one should be subjected to it. However, it is clear that the flames of political hatred are not just being spread by anonymous extremists, but also by a county Republican party and a Republican candidate for governor. This news comes on the same day the RNC describes the violent Jan. 6 insurrection as ‘legitimate political discourse.’ Republicans who disagree with this dangerous, misinformed rhetoric have a responsibility to speak out and demand an end to political threats and harassment.”
…Adding… Couple of Republicans…
There is NO plan for “concentration camps for the unvaxxed” but a false report has lead to multiple death threats for State Rep. Deb Conroy. Reactionfrom Minority Leader Jim Durkin: “there is not place in our political discourse for threats of violence.”
Important article. @StateRepDeb46 I’ve received many calls and emails about HB 4640. The bill’s intent is being misunderstood. Please don’t take the policy discussion to these dark places. https://t.co/FOKo2d4NC2.
State Representative Seth Lewis’ Response to Fellow DuPage County State Representive Deb Conroy’s Controversy
Stop! The threats, abusive language, and derogatory comments directed to Representative Deb Conroy are unacceptable! I disagree with my colleagues bill, but I have no problem stepping up to defend her and her staff against threatening abuse. It is not right! Abuse and bullying behavior towards anyone is NEVER acceptable!
* Speaking live on Facebook today, Sen. Darren Bailey called Richard Irvin a “Democrat Mayor,” claimed Irvin has been “bombing” his interviews, brought up the Fox 32 interview, and noted Irvin’s refusal to directly answer “the Trump question”…
Now, friends, you’ve got to scroll down and watch the last post that we posted last night with this Democrat Mayor Irvin that the Republican establishment has propped up to to run for governor. You’re going to love this. He’s had that, for the first time and two weeks since they’ve announced he’s been starting to having interviews. He is bombing them bad. Last night, you know, he said he was no one’s pushover. And yesterday in my live I mentioned that well, you know, you don’t push puppets you pull puppets. And in an interview last night he was asked about the abortion issue. And you could hear someone in the background saying this interview is over. And then he looked at them, he paused and he said well, I think this interview is over. Watch the one and a half minute clip that we posted. It was on Fox 32 last night.
He will not answer the Trump question. He won’t talk about who he voted for in the past. And it just seems like we’re living in some crazy days here in Illinois.
Irvin has repeatedly claimed that Pritzker wants reporters to focus on Trump. He’s right. But so does Bailey.
…Adding… Good point in comments…
It’s ironic that Darren Bailey criticizes Richard Irvin’s interviews with the press. At least Irvin speaks to the press while Bailey hides behind his one-way conversations on FB.
Well, you know, my opponents will say a lot of things. And what they should be talking about is how JB Pritzker is destroying the state of Illinois. How everything he’s doing is taking Illinois 10 steps back. Now, as governor, what I want to do is focus on the things that people care about when I go around the state. Let me tell you what folks care about. They care about the crime that’s running rampant through the state of Illinois. You know, I want to address that as I have as mayor of the second largest city. They talk about the taxes and the wasteful spending. I want to address that, just like I have as mayor of the second largest city of the state. They talk about the corruption that’s running rampant, that JB Pritzker has bought intom the Madigan Pritzker corruption. I will fight against that just like we have in the city of Aurora. So my opponents should be talking about the state of Illinois and not silly political fire.
* Gov. Pritzker was asked today about Mayor Irvin’s claim that his proposed one-year tax cuts are gimmicks and the governor is just trying to “buy votes”…
Well, this wasn’t a gimmick when Richard Irvin’s running mate proposed precisely this, just earlier this year, last year. You know, this is real relief for families across Illinois. If we can do more, we will do more. When we can do more, we will do more.
An Irvin campaign commercial that focuses on the law-and-order issue says he called the National Guard into Aurora to quell a May 31, 2020, protest over the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police that turned violent.
Only governors have the ability to authorize the use of the National Guard. Asked specifically if he was the one who called in the Guard, Irvin said he watched as his emergency management director requested guard assistance. […]
As for his remarks supportive of Pritzker less than a year ago, Irvin said, “My mother taught me great manners” and “I was just being polite.”
So did Irvin say something he didn’t really mean?
“I’m saying, listen, when the governor of Illinois comes to town and you rely on the governor for so many resources in your city, the second largest city in the state, it’s probably good to be polite,” Irvin said.
I mean, he was mayor, so you gotta figure Irvin was part of the decision to have the city’s emergency management director request the assistance. The DGA, however, claims that Irvin “confessed his TV ad was based on a lie.”
* Press release…
Secretary of State candidate Anna Valencia has picked up another endorsement as the Democratic Party of the 49th Ward has announced it is backing her historic candidacy.
“We are excited to support Anna Valencia so that she can build on Secretary White’s legacy of breaking barriers and serving all Illinoisans,” said David Kogan, President of the Democratic Party of the 49th Ward. “We know we can count on Anna to always support Democratic candidates, and her proven track record of making government more accessible for Chicagoans will allow her to bring quality public service to everyone in our state.”
Earlier this week, Valencia was endorsed by ten elected leaders from collar counties, growing her “Women for Valencia” coalition to more than 60 prominent women leaders from across Illinois. The coalition includes U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth; Chicago Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts; Ulta Beauty Chairwoman Mary Dillon and more.
GOP gubernatorial candidate Gary Rabine was in Springfield wearing a bright orange Chicago Bears insulated jump suit and helping get cars out of the snow. “I was scheduled to meet with state legislators,” he told Playbook. When everything got canceled because of the snowstorm, he went down anyway with his team ready to work. “We got dozens of cars unstuck, plowed a bunch of driveways and shoveled the steps up to the Honest Abe statue at the Capitol late Wednesday night.”
* I tread here with great trepidation, but I’m thinking quite a large number of Illinois Republican leaders won’t be loving this…
The Republican Party on Friday officially declared the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and events that led to it “legitimate political discourse,” formally rebuking two lawmakers in the party who have been most outspoken in condemning the deadly riot and the role of Donald J. Trump in spreading the election lies that fueled it.
The Republican National Committee’s overwhelming voice vote to censure Representatives Liz Cheney of Wyoming and Adam Kinzinger of Illinois at its winter meeting in Salt Lake City culminated more than a year of vacillation, which started with party leaders condemning the Capitol attack and Mr. Trump’s conduct, then shifted to downplaying and denying it.
WHEREAS, Representatives Cheney and Kinzinger are participating in a Democrat-led persecution of ordinary citizens engaged in legitimate political discourse, and they are both utilizing their past professed political affiliation to mask Democrat abuse of prosecutorial power for partisan purposes, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Republican National Committee hereby formally censures Representatives Liz Cheney of Wyoming and Adam Kinzinger of Illinois and shall immediately cease any and all support of them as members of the Republican Party.
* OK, let’s move from state and national to a local race. Signs don’t vote, but they can get you arrested…
A Woodstock attorney accused of vandalizing and damaging campaign signs belonging to a McHenry County sheriff’s candidate turned himself in to police Wednesday night, according to jail records.
Robert T. Hanlon, 55, of the 3700 block of Beresford Drive in Woodstock, is charged with misdemeanor criminal damage to property of less than $500, according to a criminal complaint filed in the McHenry County courthouse by the Crystal Lake Police Department.
The attorney is accused of “damaging numerous campaign signs located at 770 S. Virginia Road,” promoting Tony Colatorti who is running for McHenry County sheriff, according to the criminal complaint.
The damage consisted of two stickers put on the signs, Crystal Lake Police Patrol Cmdr. Rick Neumann said. It was not known at the time exactly how many signs were damaged, Neumann said
* Tom DeVore’s mask TRO case wasn’t addressed today, but his class certification was denied. Here’s Center Square…
A Sangamon County circuit court judge on Friday denied class certification in challenges over vaccine or testing mandates for teachers and mask mandates and exclusion policies for students.
The mandates have been imposed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker since last fall. School districts across the state have been implementing the orders.
After days of oral arguments in separate challenges last month, Sangamon County Circuit Court Judge Raylene Grischow denied requests for class certification Friday.
Class certification is sought in a case where plaintiffs want their cause of action to be accessed by others in similar situations.
“Counsel has demonstrated to the Court that the class is so numerous that joinder is impracticable in that the proposed class would include 711 parents and legal guardians whose almost 900,000 children attend school within the 145 school districts,” Grischow wrote in the case parents brought against mask and exclusion mandates. “The Motion to Certify the Class is premature and is denied.”
Arguments in that case were heard over several days last month.
In the case of dozens of school staff suing 22 school districts, the governor and state education officials challenging vaccine or testing mandates in public schools, the judge denied certifying the class.
“The Court is aware of educators on both sides of this issue,” Grischow wrote in a separate order. “It appears the named Plaintiffs can maintain a cause of action but there is the possibility of relief that could be potentially antagonistic to non-represented class members. It is not appropriate for this Court to speculate that a class action is the most appropriate method and that joinder may prove to be more time consuming and expensive.”
The judge also ruled that “adequacy of representation” could be an issue because she was unaware of any prior experience of handling class action cases by Tom DeVore’s firm, and was uncertain whether DeVore could handle the financial responsibilities involved.
* Hospitalizations have declined 30.84 percent since last Friday, compared to a 25 percent drop the previous week. ICU numbers fell 31.75 percent. Ventilator usage dropped 31.74 percent. Deaths were up by 738 three Friday’s ago, up by 746 two Friday’s ago, and were up at the end of last week by 843. The peak appears to have been cleared because they’re up this week by 608. The first decline in the rate of increase in a while. From IDPH…
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 60,389 new confirmed and probable cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including an increase of 608 deaths since January 28, 2022. The number of cases reported this week (60,389) is less than half as many reported during the previous week (123,812).
Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 2,957,563 cases, including 31,296 deaths, in 102 counties in Illinois. The age of cases ranges from younger than one to older than 100 years. Since January 28, 2022, laboratories have reported 1,047,216 specimens for a total of 51,846,053. As of last night, 3,135 individuals in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 546 patients were in the ICU and 314 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.
The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity for cases as a percent of total test from January 28 – February 3, 2022 is 5.8%. The preliminary seven-day statewide test positivity from January 28 – February 3, 2022 is 8.0%.
A total of 20,623,484 vaccines have been administered in Illinois as of last midnight. The seven-day rolling average of vaccines administered daily is 28,626 doses. Since January 28, 2022, 200,384 doses were reported administered in Illinois. Of Illinois’ total population, more than 75% has received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, 66% of Illinois’ total population is fully vaccinated, and more than 47% boosted according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
All data are provisional and will change. Additional information and COVID-19 data can be found at https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19.html.
Vaccination is the key to ending this pandemic. To find a COVID-19 vaccination location near you, go to www.vaccines.gov.
New cases per day have tanked by almost a half-million nationwide since mid-January, the curve trending downward in every state but Maine. And the number of Americans in the hospital with COVID-19 has fallen 15% over that period to about 124,000.
Illinois cases dropped in half in just the past week and 71 percent since mid-January. Hospitalizations here have fallen 57 percent since mid-January.
Do you foresee the state changing the guidance going forward for what’s considered fully vaccinated with Moderna’s full FDA approval?
I mean, that’s inevitable, I think, because we are understanding that these successive variants are more and more evading the vaccine immunity. And so if we want to minimize these ongoing surges, it behooves us to be up to date. And, you know, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s every five months. We need to follow and see, you know, when is it that people seem to start picking up more infections than they did at the beginning of the vaccine and figure out what the timeline is. Eventually, there will probably be other vaccines that maybe will last longer, maybe there’ll be a multivalent vaccine where you can have something that would protect against different kinds of strains — to have that all in one more akin to what we see with the flu vaccine. You know, there’s a lot that technology is working on in science and research will probably have something, you know, down the road that we’re not even thinking about today.
So basically, we’re still in the thick of changing and evolving science?
That’s how science works. It’s constantly evolving. You know, the sausage is being made right in front of us. I think it’s not comfortable for everyone to see how this evolves. We’re used to diseases that, “Oh, they’ve been around for hundreds of years. We know how this works.” We are part of that history that, you know, 100 years from now, people [will be] like “Oh, yeah, I understand about COVID,” but they will know about it because of what we have gone through during this time.
* COVID has pushed one Chicago institution into crisis again and again. The Omicron surge is receding. Now what?: With COVID set to be a permanent fixture in our lives, more surges and variants are possible. The hospital will have to deal with people whose care was postponed amid the surge and those with long-term problems because of their run-ins with COVID. Meanwhile, the staffing shortages that long preceded Omicron’s arrival will remain. A small community hospital will struggle to attract staff in a way that a larger, better-funded institution won’t. Nursing- and medical-school applications are up, but training the next generation will take several years. “We have to be able to navigate a path forward with less,” Oglesby-Odom said. “We’re never going to be able to go back to the way we were, because there’s not that same workforce.”
* OK, let me start out by saying that I’m not trying to pick on one particular candidate here. And I’m not trying to take sides in this debate. But these talking points are widely used and listening to this interview prompted me to go look up the actual laws. From WGN political reporter Tahman Bradley’s interview of Richard Irvin…
Bradley: Illinois law would protect a woman’s right to an abortion. Even if Roe v Wade, were overturned. Will you work to repeal or protect Illinois abortion law?
Irvin: I’m pro-life. And I think we can all agree on both sides of the aisle and parents across our state, the legislation that JB Pritzker signed giving a teenager the right to get an abortion without the notification of the parents is atrocious. A child can get an aspirin in school without their parents notification or consent. Yet, because we’ve signed a law that allows a teenager 12, 13, 14, 15 years old to walk into an abortion clinic and get a serious medical procedure without their parent be notified. That’s absolutely wrong. That’s extreme. Should that law be repealed? That law should absolutely be repealed.
To provide for the administration of medication to students. It shall be the policy of the State of Illinois that the administration of medication to students during regular school hours and during school-related activities should be discouraged unless absolutely necessary for the critical health and well-being of the student. Under no circumstances shall teachers or other non-administrative school employees, except certified school nurses and non-certificated registered professional nurses, be required to administer medication to students. This Section shall not prohibit a school district from adopting guidelines for self-administration of medication by students that are consistent with this Section and this Code.
Bradley: So you will make some adjustments then to the abortion laws on the books in Illinois?
Irvin: As I said, I think most any parent around the state will agree that their teenagers shouldn’t be able to walk in and get a serious medical procedure without them even being notified.
* From an Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health publication entitled “Healthcare Rights of Youth in Illinois,” updated in 2018…
• General Healthcare
o No consent needed by parent or guardian if a minor is married, pregnant, or a parent. Consent is needed for minors if they do not meet these qualifications.
So, a pregnant minor could already get general medical services on her own without her parents’ knowledge or consent, including having the baby at a hospital. The list of non-notification services available to pregnant minors was expanded last year to include abortion.
Other medical services that any minor can receive without parental notification or consent as of 2018: Pregnancy testing, prenatal care, emergency contraception, STI/HIV testing and treatment (12 and older), substance use treatment (12 and older).
* House Republican Leader Jim Durkin’s response to the governor’s budget address earlier this week…
The governor’s budget address is always a wish-list, and this year it’s clear that the governor wishes to be reelected. The budget laid out by Governor Pritzker today is packed with gimmicks and one-time tricks, but no structural reforms.
* That’s pretty funny. On November 23rd of last year, two members of Durkin’s leadership team proposed a one-time tax relief plan. From Center Square’s coverage…
“We may not be able to address at the state level the root causes of inflation, we can and we think it is our responsibility to provide relief,” [Assistant Republican Leader Avery Bourne] said. “And that’s why today we’re proposing inflation tax relief for Illinois families.”
State Rep. Tom Demmer, R-Dixon, wants to give up to $400 of tax credits to taxpayers under certain income thresholds.
Single tax filers up to $75,000 would get $200 back, joint filers up to $150,000 would get $400 and head of household filers up to $112,500 in income to get $200.
“Four hundred dollars won’t make all the problems go away, but it could have a positive impact,” Demmer said. “It could be an extra week or two of groceries, it could be an extra few utility bills, it could be the difference between being able to buy new shoes or winter coats for your kids.”
To pay for the $1.4 billion plan, Demmer suggested reprioritizing state spending to be offset by some of the $8 billion in federal COVID-19 relief funds.
* Deputy Republican Leader Demmer was asked at that press conference if the tax break was temporary or permanent…
We’re proposing it today as a one-time tax credit to address some of the acute problems that we’re seeing in family budgets today.
Leader Demmer said he’d consider making it permanent, “but what we’re focused on right now is delivering relief as quickly as we can and I think this is one of the ways to do it.” He said the idea was to implement it in the current fiscal year.
* Demmer also said that he and Bourne fully understood that their plan wouldn’t solve the problems caused by inflation, but it would help…
This would be just a small token of what we can do to provide relief for taxpayers. $400 won’t make all the problems go away. But it could have a positive impact to be an extra week or two of groceries. It could be an extra few utility bills. It could be the difference between being able to buy new shoes or a new winter coat for your kids
* At the time the HGOP plan was announced, the governor’s office didn’t directly comment on its substance (likely because they were developing their own $1 billion tax cut plan which was unveiled this week), but the governor’s press secretary did unleash a full-on snark bomb…
For the entirety of the pandemic Republicans have refused to engage on meaningful solutions aimed at helping working families deal with the resulting economic challenges. While Republicans now try and weigh in 18 months too late, this administration is hard at work putting billions of dollars of rental and mortgage assistance, small business grants, and utility assistance into the hands of working families, all of which passed without help from the GOP caucuses.
Adding to the irony is the fact that Republicans staunchly opposed the fair tax which would have provided tax relief to 97 percent of Illinoisans. Since Republicans in Illinois now support providing direct relief for the costs that are weighing on working families, we look forward to their support of President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda and would urge them to share their views on this with their counterparts in Washington.
* So, now what? Maybe everyone could swallow their mutual disdain and sheathe their campaign swords long enough to put together a one-year tax cut plan to help the people of Illinois? Wouldn’t that be great?
…Adding… I should’ve noted that while Richard Irvin’s running mate Avery Bourne proposed a temporary one-year tax break paid for with pandemic relief, Irvin has been saying since the budget address that a one-year tax break based on temporarily increased revenues is an “election-year gimmick” and has said “It’s almost like he’s looking to buy votes.” I’m now curious what he thinks of his running-mate’s proposal.
Base general funds revenues increased an impressive $1.721 billion in January. The increase was due to strong gains from the State’s largest revenue sources. Combined, net income and sales taxes jumped $1.224 billion for the month. Receipts were further bolstered by a comparatively strong performance of federal sources. January had one more receipting day compared to last year.
In January, gross personal income tax receipts led the way, growing a remarkable $1.107 billion, or $938 million on a net basis. Gross corporate income tax receipts continued its strong performance growing another $222 million, or $175 million net. Gross sales tax revenues added $123 million, or $111 million net. Other increases from State sources came from other miscellaneous sources [up $38 million]; public utility taxes [up $5 million]; and, interest on State funds and investments [up $1 million].
After falling $948 million last month, federal source revenues bounced back in January, growing $511 million. The notable monthly increase was in large part due to the small amount of federal revenues receipted last year, at only $74 million. [The comparatively small January 2021 total was because it followed the $1.325 billion in pandemic-related relief money received in December 2020, which gives context to that month’s significant decline]. The see-saw nature of federal funds in FY 2021 helps explain the similar wild swings in federal sources so far in FY 2022.
While the large revenue sources performed quite well, several of the smaller sources did experience declines in January. Corporate franchise taxes fell $39 million, while inheritance taxes dropped $33 million. Other declines came from insurance taxes [down $22 million] and cigarette taxes [down $5 million]; and vehicle use taxes [down $2 million]
Overall transfers into the general funds were collectively up $43 million in January, but individually had mixed results. A $20 million increase in riverboat transfers and a $31 million gain from miscellaneous transfers were partially offset by an $8 million decline in lottery transfers.
Year to Date
Through the first seven months of FY 2022, overall base receipts are up a remarkable $2.639 billion. As mentioned in previous monthly briefings, what makes this growth so impressive is that the revenue totals of FY 2022 are compared to FY 2021 receipts that benefitted from last year’s final payment delay, valued at approximately $1.3 billion. Despite this occurrence, net personal income tax revenues have risen $560 million and net corporate income tax revenues have increased $818 million. Net sales tax also continues its phenomenal year, now up $754 million through January. All other sources are trailing last year’s levels by a combined $96 million.
Overall transfers continue to outpace last year’s levels and are now up $440 million this fiscal year. Those gains reflect $332 million in gains from miscellaneous transfers, $107 million from the return of riverboat transfers, and $40 million improvement from the lottery. Those increases more than offset the $39 million decline in the refund fund transfer.
In summary, despite the lingering pandemic and its effect on employment, business activity, supply- chain disruptions, and building inflation pressures, FY 2022 revenues have continued to amaze. While this torrid pace cannot continue for much longer as stimulus efforts wind down and inflationary pressures build, thus far FY 2022 revenues have certainly exceeded expectations.
* More than three weeks after petition circulation season started, Jesse Sullivan finally finds a willing running mate. Her name may be familiar to some of you…
BIG NEWS.. I'm proud to introduce the next Lt. Gov of Illinois, @KMurphyIL!
A working mom, activist, and advocate for children & families, she's ready to take the fight to JB Pritzker. I’m excited to team up with Kathleen to offer a new generation of outsider leadership. #SaveILpic.twitter.com/4yonnszXEw
Kathleen Murphy was the Director of Communication and Spokeswoman for Jeanne Ives’ primary race for Illinois Governor against Bruce Rauner.
She is also the creator and host of Upstream Idea’s Follow the Logic, a man-on-street segment that challenges interviewees’ principles and fixed ideas on policies and politics. Kathleen has served as a co-host on 560-AM’s Illinois Rising. She additionally writes and produces Heart of the Matter, Dollars and Sense and Two-Minute Warning for Upstream Ideas.
She is also a political communication expert, with strong media background and extensive experience in research, analysis and messaging in the political arena.
As Director of Communication for Illinois Opportunity Project, Kathleen oversees the organization’s messaging and communication strategy; leads their media strategy; interprets and explains the politics behind state policies; and helps to advance center-right leaders and free-market policy solutions. She is a trusted advisor to many liberty-principled legislators, candidates, advocates and community leaders.
Additionally, Kathleen is member of the Ladies of Liberty Alliance Speakers Bureau. The national organization includes many notable women in the liberty movement, such as Amity Shlaes, Tammy Bruce, Katherine Timpf, Michelle Fields and Christina Hoff-Sommers.
Prior to joining the Illinois Opportunity Project, Kathleen served as Legislative Aide in the Illinois House of Representatives.
…Adding… Murphy does have TV advertising experience. She was featured in a gob of Dan Proft ads a half-dozen years ago…
…Adding… Press release…
Mom, activist, and Breakthrough Ideas president and co-founder Kathleen Murphy will join Republican candidate for governor Jesse Sullivan as his running mate for lieutenant governor:
“The working families of Illinois deserve a leader and advocate like Kathleen,” Sullivan said. “She is a devoted mother of two, a passionate advocate for the rights of children and parents, and a free thinker who will fight relentlessly for parents and families at a time when they are under attack. From helping to rebuild her church to assisting victims of domestic violence, Kathleen lives the values of faith, family, and service.”
“Kathleen represents the next generation of leaders we need to Save Illinois. She is no stranger to hard work, and like me, she is an outsider who is not beholden to the failed political system that has delivered high taxes and corrupt leaders.”
“I am proud to join Jesse Sullivan in this fight,” Murphy said. “He brings the kind of outsider energy, focused leadership, and an optimistic vision that our state so desperately needs.”
“I know what it’s like to wonder if you’re going to be able to make ends meet, and I am eager to represent working moms across the state in Springfield. Like most Illinoisans, I am sick and tired of watching a man who has had everything handed to him tell us how to live our lives.”
“Our children are hurting. I’ve seen it firsthand. Our school system is failing our kids, our economy is lagging behind our neighbors, and Illinois simply cannot afford four more years of JB Pritzker,” Murphy said.
“With Kathleen’s leadership, we will end Pritzker’s harmful mandates for our kids on Day 1,” Sullivan said.
…Adding… Jeanne Ives was all-in for Ted Cruz back in 2016, so this sort of thing is not surprise. Click the pic for more search results…
* Mike Flannery of Fox 32 interviewed Richard Irvin. It didn’t end well…
Irvin: I’m pro-life.
Flannery: Any exceptions for rape, incest, the life of the mother?
Irvin: You know, there are always exceptions, rape, incest, life of the mother.
Flannery: You would allow abortion in those circumstances? [Irvin looks to his right.] You would allow abortion in those circumstances?
Irvin: I think we’re done.
…Adding… He was being signaled that the allotted time had long expired, I’m told. But, man, that didn’t come off well.
…Adding… Now I’m being told by a top Irvin operative that he would’ve answered “Yes” to Flannery’s question. And they’re also saying he already answered the question before Flannery asked him point blank.
…Adding… The full interview (with higher quality) is here.
…Adding… He dodged another Trump question when talking to Greg Hinz…
But asked if he voted for Trump in 2020, Irvin wouldn’t say. “Joe Biden’s the president,” Irvin replied. Pritzker is just prompting such questions to change the subject from the fact that “crime’s out of control, taxing and spending is out of control, corruption is out of control.”
…Adding… Terry Cosgrove at Personal PAC…
When asked if he supported exceptions to abortion for rape and incest victims, Richard Irvin declined to answer and nervously looked to his handler for help. His silence speaks volumes and women across Illinois are listening. This question should be a no-brainer for anyone seeking our state’s highest office and is a reminder that everything is on the line this November. Richard Irvin has revealed himself to be another out of touch, right-wing extremist who would seek to take our state backwards, and we must do everything we can to ensure that he doesn’t get anywhere near the governor’s office.
* I tipped subscribers to these candidates the other day…
The Democratic field for the Illinois 19th House District race is becoming crowded, with two challengers announcing their candidacy against state Representative Lindsey LaPointe.
Chicago 911 dispatcher and former Los Angeles police officer Keith Thornton Jr., who lives in the Portage Park area, and real estate broker Tina Wallace, who lives in the Old Irving Park area, are challenging incumbent LaPointe, who was appointed to the position in 2019 after Robert Martwick left to become state senator in the 10th District.
LaPointe, who lives in the Jefferson Park area, was then elected in 2020, defeating two challengers in the primary.
The district’s boundaries have been redrawn, losing a portion of Gladstone Park to the north and picking up areas south of West Irving Park Road. The change may have increased the district’s liberal base, according to some political observers.
Keith Thornton Jr. was the calm voice in the chaos of a tragedy one month ago Tuesday night, when two Chicago Police officers were shot in the line of duty.
Thornton, a 911 dispatcher with the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications, was applauded for his decisive action over the radio that night. He told CBS 2 Investigator Megan Hickey in his first TV interview that it was the officer he couldn’t save who changed his goals for the future.
It almost goes without saying that Rep. LaPointe is in for a very interesting primary if Thornton picks up enough local political backing.
* Press release…
In case you missed it, Esther Joy King, Republican candidate for Illinois’ 17th Congressional District, has outraised all seven Democrats combined, including Nancy Pelosi and Cheri Bustos’ handpicked candidate, running in the 17th District. King raised nearly $640,000 in the fourth quarter ending December 31 and reported more than $1,000,000 cash on hand. She was the top fundraiser among Republican women congressional challengers in the country this quarter and in the top 10 for Republican challengers overall.
“The numbers do not lie, we absolutely have the momentum going into November,” said King. “People are struggling to support far-left liberal candidates because their party is failing us on nearly every front. Everywhere I go, people talk to me about how they’re struggling just to do the basics in life, like fill their gas tank, manage the unpredictability of their kids’ school, find everyday grocery items, or hire workers, and Democrat policies are only making things worse. I’ll continue to work hard to take back this seat because the people of this district are worth the fight.”
Esther Joy King is also the top fundraising challenger in the state of Illinois. National political forecasters believe the 17th Congressional District will be one of the most competitive races in 2022, and key to Republicans winning back the House. The Cook Political Report and Sabato’s Crystal Ball have both rated IL-17 as a “Toss Up” seat.
* Press release…
Today, the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) announced an early endorsement for the newly drawn 3rd Congressional District.
The IFT Executive Board unanimously voted to endorse State Rep. Delia Ramirez for Congress. Rep. Ramirez is currently Assistant Majority Leader in the Illinois General Assembly and serving her second term. During her tenure, Rep. Ramirez was the chief sponsor of the Chicago elected school board bill. She has been a champion for education, housing, and healthcare.
“Delia exemplifies everything that we need in Congress – a coalition builder rooted in her community and values. As a product of Chicago Public Schools, she understands the needs and challenges of our teachers, students, and staff,” said IFT President Dan Montgomery. “Since the start of her career, she has been a staunch ally for our members, leading on education issues. I have no doubt that she will continue to advocate for students and educators in Congress,” added Montgomery.
The endorsement reflects the results of the IFT’s robust candidate review process, which includes candidate surveys, regional discussions, and thorough consideration by the 40 elected members of the union’s Executive Board, which represents our diverse local unions statewide.
“Delia is an unapologetic fighter who understands the needs of the 3rd Congressional District and knows first-hand the intersectionality between education, housing, and healthcare,” said Jhoanna Maldonado, an IFT vice president and Chicago Teachers Union organizer. “As a teacher in the district, I worked side by side with Delia and I know she will continue to be a strong advocate for Sustainable Community Schools and represent our community holistically.”
The IFT represents 103,000 members across Illinois with nearly 5,000 members living in the newly drawn 3rd Congressional District. The union looks forward to supporting Rep. Delia Ramirez on the ground and at the ballot box in the days leading up to the primary election on June 28.
Jaylin McClinton has been endorsed by state Rep. Lamont Robinson, the first openly LGBTQ+ Black state legislator in Illinois. McClinton is running for Cook County commissioner in the 5th District.
Pritzker Granted Early Release To A Violent Drug Dealer Who Was Quickly Arrested Again On A Class X Felony
On June 4, 2020, The Illinois Department Of Corrections Granted Early Release To John Payne.
(Illinois Department of Corrections, Accessed 1/5/22)
• The Department Of Corrections Granted Payne Earned Discretionary Sentence Credit. (Illinois Department of Corrections, Accessed 1/5/22)
Payne Was Charged In 2018 With Armed Violence, A Class X Felony, As Well As Delivery Of A Controlled Substance And Unlawful Possession Of A Firearm. (People of Illinois v. John K. Payne, 7th Judicial Circuit Court, Case #2018-CF-000833, Filed 7/31/18)
Payne Ultimately Pled Guilty To Reduced Charges And Was Sentenced To Five Years In Prison.
(People of Illinois v. John K. Payne, 7th Judicial Circuit Court, Case #2018-CF-000833, Filed 7/31/18)
In August 2020, Payne Was Arrested In Sangamon County And Charged With Armed Violence, A Class X Felony, As Well As Unlawful Use Of A Weapon And Delivery Of A Controlled Substance.
(People of Illinois v. John K. Payne, 7th Judicial Circuit Court, Case #2020-CF-000881, Filed 9/2/20)
Payne Ultimately Pled Guilty To Reduced Charges And Was Sentenced To Six Years In Prison.
(People of Illinois v. John K. Payne, 7th Judicial Circuit Court, Case #2020-CF-000881, Filed 9/2/20)
Payne pleaded guilty in 2019 to manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance and possession of a firearm without a FOID card, both class 3 felonies. He was let out a year later during the pandemic under an optional (Earned Discretionary Sentence Credit) and was busted again, but his lawyer pleaded those charges down to two concurrent six-year terms for UUW and manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.
* From the governor’s office…
John Payne pleaded guilty in 2019 to a non-violent offense, and the Department of Corrections followed all existing policies and procedures in determining sentence and programming credit. The Department cannot unilaterally determine that he is subject to policies and procedures for violent offenders when the court system – including his defense attorney, prosecutors and a judge – adjudicated him as nonviolent.
* From the Pritzker campaign…
Richard Irvin’s desperate deflections make one thing clear: he is unwilling and unable to talk about his own record. Try as he may to deflect, the truth is as follows: Irvin spent 15 years profiting off of telling domestic abusers how he would keep them out of jail and brazenly advertising his time as a prosecutor as the reason he could help them escape accountability for their crimes.
One of the first things we got to do is repeal many of the things in the oppressive, that terrible legislation that Pritzker just signed that he calls a crime bill, which is not actually a crime bill at all because it doesn’t address crime. What it does, it prevents police officers from doing their job. You know, Pritzker doesn’t care about crime. If he did, he wouldn’t have signed that bill.
This bill that says that if a person is arrested for violent crime, they’re immediately released. There is no bond. That’s unheard of. That destroys our system, our criminal justice system.
The same bill says that those individuals the police just arrested after they bond after they get out with no bond, they can go make an anonymous complaint against a police officer without any repercussion, ruining a police officers life, which makes it hard for us to recruit good people that want to be the police.
This bill also says that if someone comes on your property or your residence or your business, that the police don’t even have the authority to arrest them, all they can do is give them a traffic ticket for their for their violation. That’s not someone that cares about crime.
Since he signed this crime bill, crime has gone up substantially in the state of Illinois. In Cook County alone, there’s been over 1000 murders, 800 of them in Chicago. Let me put that in perspective. New York, which is three times the size of Chicago, had 500 murders. Los Angeles, which is a million more than Chicago, had 400 murders. Yet, Chicago had its most dangerous year in murders, the largest murder rate in this whole country, and the most dangerous in 25 years.
This isn’t a governor that cares about the state. This is a governor that doesn’t care about police. As a matter of fact, let me tell you what happened in this last year since he signed that bill, eight police officers have been murdered in the line of duty, eight of them. The last one a woman Sergeant Rittmanic. She begged for her life on her own video as she was shot and killed with her own gun. That’s not a governor that cares about police.
Now as governor, I’ll make sure I have the police’s back, they’ll know that I have their back just like the police in Aurora know that I have their back. Any police department throughout the state needs to know their governor steps up for them and the Illinois State Police needs to know that their governor actually looks out for them and cares about the men and women in blue that put their life on the line for us every single day. That’s not JB Pritzker. But that will definitely be under an Irvin/Bourne administration.
Whew. That’s some pretty intense rhetoric, but he also said something pretty darned false when he claimed people arrested for a violent crime would be “immediately released” under a law that hasn’t taken effect yet.
* Click here and scroll down for the law. Anyone can be held pre-trial if they are charged with a multitude of crimes, including “a forcible felony offense for which a sentence of imprisonment, without probation, periodic imprisonment or conditional discharge, is required by law upon conviction, and it is alleged that the defendant’s pretrial release poses a specific, real and present threat to any person or the community.”
Alleged stalkers, domestic batterers and most sex offenders can be held. Also, people alleged to have committed crimes like aggravated and reckless discharge of a firearm; armed habitual criminals; manufacture, sale or transfer of bullets or shells represented to be armor piercing bullets, dragon’s breath shotgun shells, bolo shells or flechette shells; unlawful sale or delivery of firearms, including on school grounds, or where there’s a liquor license; unlawful purchase of a firearm, gunrunning, firearms trafficking, involuntary servitude, involuntary sexual servitude of a minor, trafficking in persons, Non-probationable violations: (i) unlawful use or possession of weapons by felons or persons in the Custody of the Department of Corrections facilities (Section 24-1.1), (ii) aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Section 24-1.6, or (iii) aggravated possession of a stolen firearm (Section 24-3.9); the person has a high likelihood of willful flight to avoid prosecution and is charged with any felony described [above] or a felony offense other than a Class 4 offense.
* Only when petitioned for by the State
* Victim entitled to notice of hearing
* Immediately at first appearance, or if continuance requested within 48 hours for most felonies or 24 hours for Class 4 felonies and misdemeanors
* If defense seeks to call victim to testify, it must petition court for permission, which is only granted if court finds by clear and convincing evidence that defendant will be materially prejudiced unless victim testifies
There’s more.
* Also, I’ve said this countless times, but police departments throughout the state allow people to anonymously report crimes.
Now, I know that the same tired old characters who are always so desperate to bad-mouth Illinois will falsely attribute our fiscal success to the federal American Rescue Plan Act. As usual, they’re wrong.
Let me set the record straight for you — our state budget surpluses would exist even without the money we received from the federal government. Painstaking work has been done in coordination with the General Assembly and Comptroller Susana Mendoza over the last 3 years to diligently and meticulously reverse the irresponsible decisions of the past and ensure that responsible budgeting would become the rule, not the exception.
What a self-indulgent position the cynics take, always opposing what’s in the best interest of the people of Illinois if they think it will advance their own political standing. It’s a curious position – but then again, there have long been people in Illinois state politics who have cared more about promoting their own propaganda than they do about what’s best for your pocketbooks. During this budget cycle especially, seats at the grown-up table will be off limits to those who aren’t working in the public’s best interests. […]
For longer than I can remember, the pension naysayers have told us we should ignore the constitution and the protections it provides and instead break our promises to retirees. I won’t do that. Instead we are tackling our pension problem with responsible pension investment decisions, solid investment returns, and expansion of the pension buyout program. As a result, pension liabilities are down, and pension assets are up. There’s more work to do, but pension payments as a percentage of our budget have finally flattened and are projected to decline. Great news for pensioners and taxpayers alike. […]
With the state and the nation experiencing a rise in violent crime, addressing public safety requires major investments. But too often those elected officials yelling the loudest about public safety concerns are also those voting to defund government budgets. Crime is a complex and multi-faceted problem to tackle, and it’s cynical and counter-productive to simply shout “Lock them up” while providing fewer resources to the people and programs that prevent crime in the first place.
A truly effective approach to tackling crime involves both short term and long-term investments and a commitment to see those investments through. […]
And at a time when politicians in some places have dipped their toes into the waters of sedition, or pulled chairs up for the ghosts of Jim Crow, or spurned the fires of educational curiosity in favor of book banning, or are telling women you have to take your reproductive health choices back to the 1950’s…at a time when some would question the very foundations of science and medicine…at a time when some would condemn simple acts of courtesy and kindness like wearing a mask so that fewer people die…
THIS government in THIS state said…Not Here.
In Illinois, our elections are protected because we’re not scared of more people voting.
In Illinois, we care about expanding the freedoms and opportunities for our Black and brown residents.
In Illinois, we built a firewall around the freedoms of every woman in this state, protecting the right to choose in our laws and prohibiting the Supreme Court from taking it away.
In Illinois, we believe all workers deserve a real living wage and the right to organize.
In Illinois, we are not afraid of our history…after all, this country’s past, some of its lowest and its highest moments, runs straight through this state Capitol. Abraham Lincoln, who once stood on this very spot under this dome, once said: “We cannot escape history. The fiery trial through which we pass, will light us down, in honor or dishonor, to the latest generation.”
In Illinois, we believe that the best thing we can do in difficult times is look out for one another.
Leadership in times like these does not dance idly wherever the wind might blow. Leadership in times like these means having the courage to stand on deck while the waves crash around you and you keep the ship pointing toward home.
The din of a crisis is when a carnival barker’s shout becomes a whisper soft enough to find the ears of the sick or worried or grieving or scared…and the poison they worm into the hearts of the vulnerable is that it’s “those people” …the ones who live in that city, the ones who worship at that altar, the ones who were born in that place…who are responsible for the hard times.
It’s a playbook as old as the play. And it’s that kind of thinking I am asking you to reject in this moment.
* The Question: I hereby deputize each of you as officers of the Illinois Politics Tone Police. Would you issue a citation? Why or why not?
Empower Local Health Departments Through Data
State Legislative Proposal HB 4640/ SB 3131
Background: Data Matters
Local health departments (LHDs) need timely access to health data, from hospital admissions to opioid prescriptions to death certificates. This is how LHDs learn patterns of disease activity and develop fast, robust responses. COVID-19 is a prime example. If health departments know what’s leading people to go to the hospital, for instance—or if they know what’s causing maternal mortality—they can identify causes and intervene. The CDC says this process is “essential” to public health.
Problem: Missing Data
State agencies such as IDPH are frequently the direct recipients and keepers of data from healthcare providers. All too often, however, LHDs are unable to access this data—or they receive subsets of it only after years have passed. Voluntary data use agreements generally don’t resolve this problem since they are often years in the making. The result is a lack of current data, which hinders local jurisdictions from carrying out their core public health functions.
Proposal: Improve Data Sharing
Our bill would ensure State agencies share public health data with LHDs upon request, with safeguards for privacy and security. Important data—some of which is shared with LHDs to varying degrees today—includes but is not limited to:
• Hospital and emergency department data, including admissions, discharge, and patient information.
• Vital records data, including birth, death, and maternal health data.
• Illinois Comprehensive Automated Immunization Registry Exchange (I-CARE), the State’s immunization data registry.
• Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program, which collects data on controlled substances.
• Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, an ongoing survey of women who have recently given birth.
• Illinois Cancer Registry, a source for cancer incidence information.
• Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program data about people living with HIV and the services they receive.
• List of individual healthcare providers.
• Illinois Medicaid and Medicare datasets of various kinds, such as client-level data for syphilis and HIV, including enrollment in prenatal services.
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) data about people’s health conditions, access to care, and demographics.
Proposed amendments to the proposal are welcome as stakeholders work together to determine a path that is doable while empowering local health departments through needed data. [Emphasis added.]
Seems basic. The data already exists, but much of it isn’t shared in a timely manner, making it almost useless.
* But some amateur morons who can’t read legislation looked at the bill because it mentions immunizations and concluded that it will lead to concentration camps. I am not making this up. Here’s Fran Eaton’s Illinois Review…
Villa Park State Rep. Deb Conroy (Democrat) wants to “isolate or quarantine persons who are unable or unwilling to receive vaccines, medications, or other treatments.”
HB 4640 is scheduled to be heard in the Illinois House Human Services Committee February 2 at 9:00 AM.
If HB 4640 were to become law, persons exposed to an infectious disease could be placed under Public Health Department observation, only possible in a contained atmosphere with Department watch guards, some suggest such as a concentration camp.
The bill says:
To prevent the spread of a dangerously contagious or infectious disease, the [Public Health] Department may, pursuant to the provisions of subsection (c) of this Section, isolate or quarantine persons whose refusal to undergo observation and monitoring results in uncertainty regarding whether he or she has been exposed to or is infected with a dangerously contagious or infectious disease or otherwise poses a danger to the public’s health.
HB 4640 would also set up a state network data collection system for persons that have received mandated vaccines, medications, or otherwise.
Ridiculous. The quarantine language is part of existing state law. People are either too stupid, lazy and/or ignorant to realize that, before they threaten someone’s life, maybe they ought to check to see if only the underlined sections of bills are new language.
* Rep. Conroy sent Illinois Review a letter. Excerpt…
I am writing to let you know that your flagrantly false post about HB4640 has resulted in dozens of death threats aimed at my staff and me. It would have taken no more than 5 minutes to verify what the bill did and where it was coming from, but instead you chose to publish false information, I assume with the intention of enraging people in the hopes they would further spread your misinformation.
Your analysis of the HB4640 is foolish at best and maliciously false at worst. It does none of the things you claim. It allows local health departments the ability to employ local health solutions to share data. It does not give any local body the authority to violate someone’s privacy rights and certainly does not allow for anyone to be detained.
“Any rules necessary:” Villa Park Democrat Conroy bill would create Illinois concentration camps for non Covid-vaxxed
State Rep. Deborah Conroy (D-Villa Park) wants to create concentration camps for Illinois residents who refuse to take COVID-19 vaccines.
Her bill would allow the state to “isolate or quarantine persons who are unable or unwilling to receive vaccines, medications, or other treatments.”
That could include segregating non-COVID vaccinated Illinoisans from COVID vaccinated residents, and more.
Conroy’s bill would give local health departments and state politicians formal legal authority to fully control the behavior of any individuals who don’t follow their COVID-19 restrictions and rules, including keeping people isolated and under police guard.
…Adding… Emily Bitter at the governor’s office responded to the DuPage Policy Journal article…
This lying propaganda hits all the high notes for the conspiracy-theory-loving crowd. It equates Covid-19 to the Holocaust, peddles misinformation and attempts to provoke hysteria – a true fringe-element hat trick. This is no surprise; this site is part of a network of extreme right wing sites that consistently try to deceive the people of Illinois.
The governor will continue to deploy proven and lawful mitigations as needed, as he listens to scientists and doctors about how to fight this pandemic.
* Not hyperbolic at all…
JB Pritzker’s Democratic Party wants to mandate you into quarantine if you don’t get a COVID vaccine. THIS IS NOT A JOKE - PRITZKER WANTS COVID JAIL. The Bill, HB4640, will be heard in Committee tomorrow. The Democrats have lost their minds. Retweet this and get the word out.
Republican candidate for DuPage County Chairman Greg Hart released the following statement in response to Democratic State Representative and candidate for DuPage County Chairman Deb Conroy’s new legislation, HB 4640: “Deb Conroy’s bill- HB 4640- presents a serious breach of the public’s trust. There has already been considerable opposition to this bill - over 12,000 opposing witness slips so far. But if that is not enough to communicate the public’s sentiments, then I am happy to express on behalf of all Illinoisans my strong opposition to Deb Conroy’s legislation and the blatant overreach it permits. I call on Representative Conroy to listen to her constituents instead of special interests and pull her bill.”
* Rep. Mazzochi was her usual reserved self…
State Representative Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst) issued the following statement regarding HB 4640, legislation that State Representative Deb Conroy (D-Villa Park) has recently started pushing:
“State Representative Bob Morgan (D-Highwood) tried to modify the Immunization Data Registry Act by forcing physicians to disclose to the Illinois Department of Public Health sensitive vaccine medical records without patient notice or consent. His efforts were widely condemned by Illinois doctors and residents across the state, and he reluctantly withdrew the bill.
Now Deb Conroy wants to move HB 4640, which will have the effect of doing covertly and dishonestly, what Rep. Morgan tried to do overtly and honestly–expand the power of IDPH, and any local public health authority, to attain peoples’ private medical records to create the registry, without patient knowledge or consent, so long as it created under the guise of “research.”
After the people of Illinois spoke so strongly on this issue, it is an insult to try to achieve the same results through a sneaky back door approach. I call on Rep. Conroy to table the bill, and for Illinois residents to yet again explain to Rep. Conroy that they do not appreciate this cynical effort to have their private medical records targeted in this way, and for this purpose.”
Oh, for crying out loud.
Rep. Conroy told me she had to close down her office because of all the threats to herself and to staff. She’s also reported numerous threats to the Illinois State Police and is also turning over information to the local state’s attorney.
* Mary Ann Ahern sat down with Republican gubernatorial candidate Richard Irvin for a few questions. Here he is on his Democratic primary voting record…
I voted in some down-ballot local races to make sure in this Democratic stronghold I’m in, as a Republican and a conservative, that we continue our conservative values here. Let me tell you who who agrees that I’m a Republican, Barack Obama, when he came here to campaign against me in 2005.
Listen, what we’re talking about here is the state of Illinois. And the state of Illinois, once I become the Republican governor, I’ll be the head of the Republican Party here in the state of Illinois.
Nice dodge, but I’m not sure he can keep that up as the question begins to change.
…Adding… DPI…
As the positive reviews roll in for Gov. JB Pritzker’s State of the State Address, Rauner Reboot centerpiece Richard Irvin tip toed out from hiding for his first television interview. The results were…not great. Irvin admitted to voting in several Democratic presidential primaries, admitted it was in fact the governor who has the power to dispatch the National Guard, and was conveniently mum about Ken Griffin’s support of his campaign.
But Irvin’s most uncomfortable moment may have been when he danced around a straightforward question about whether Donald Trump represents the Republican Party. Instead of answering, Irvin desperately tried to pivot away from Trump and declared himself the “head of the Republican Party in the state of Illinois.” Irvin’s uncomfortable answer was reminiscent Bruce Rauner’s infamous “focus, Amanda, focus” debacle when the failed governor nervously tried to dodge questions about Trump.
We’ll see if Irvin can step his game up once he feels ready to hold a press conference or talk to actual voters, but if the first interview was any indication, he’s got a lot of work to do before he’s ready for prime time.
* Since only the governor can call out the National Guard, why did he take credit for doing so in his TV ad?…
JB Pritzker doesn’t know to come to Aurora and address the crime and what was going on in our riots and our looting, pillage and plunder unless I called. I had to call for them. So absolutely I called out the National Guard
He also said he is vaccinated, but opposes mandates.
Despite an influx of cash from wealthy donors, Aurora Mayor and Republican gubernatorial candidate Richard Irvin said “I am nobody’s pushover” when asked about the contributions during an exclusive interview Wednesday with the Daily Herald.
“I’m a combat veteran of the United States Army,” Irvin said. “I’m a former prosecutor, a person who put violent criminals behind bars. I’m the mayor of the second-largest city in Illinois with a proven record of results getting things done. […]
Regarding Griffin, “I think we’d all agree he’s done a lot for the state of Illinois,” Irvin said. But “it’s just one person, one vote, and I look forward to listening to all the residents of Illinois about what we can do to take the state back.” […]
“As a community-based prosecutor, I worked side by side with police officers to root out crime — arresting drug dealers, gangbangers, wife beaters,” Irvin said, “addressing quality-of-life issues in neighborhoods, just like the one I grew up in … where there wasn’t a whole lot of hope and (there was) a whole lot of drugs and gangs in my community.”
Griffin may have just one vote, but he also has $20+ billion.
* And while Irvin undoubtedly did all those things when he was a prosecutor, he’s now a criminal defense attorney with his own firm. From his firm’s website…
Abuse and neglect: We represent parents who have a petition to terminate parental rights for abuse or neglect brought against them by the state of Illinois. We work extensively with Catholic charities and the Illinois Department of Family Services to reunite families.
It’s the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and it’ll be interesting to see if he’s defended any really bad parents.
Possession of heroin, in any amount, is a felony. If you face felony charges for possessing heroin in Illinois, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect you from harsh consequences such as lengthy jail sentences. The Law Office of Richard C. Irvin & Associates represents clients charged with heroin possession in the Aurora area.
Everyone deserves effective counsel and that’s probably OK in a general election, but it’s definitely not so good in a Republican primary.
Felonies. At The Law Office of Richard C. Irvin & Associates, we represent clients charged with felonies such as burglary, forgery, reckless homicide and many others.
Aurora / Elgin – Drug Possession With Intent Attorney
Whether you were arrested for allegedly selling drugs to an undercover police officer or following a traffic stop, our lawyers will take aggressive steps to mitigate the charges against you. If the police officer who arrested you did not have probable cause to do so, we will pursue a motion to suppress, which could lead to a dismissal of the charges against you.
If the office did have probable cause, we are prepared to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges to a lesser offense. As a former prosecutor, attorney Irvin understands how prosecutors view a case. This experience makes him an effective negotiator. He is prepared to defend your constitutional rights and your freedom. The sooner you reach out to an Aurora possession with intent to distribute attorney, the better your chances for a fair and favorable outcome will be.
Ibid., Primary. See also: “arresting drug dealers, gangbangers.”
If you are charged with battery, you can face devastating consequences following a conviction. It is important to have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side to increase your chances of a successful outcome.
At the Law Office of Richard C. Irvin & Associates, we understand that emotions can run hot in many relationships. Whether it is a dating relationship, a marriage or a relationship with a shared child, tempers can flare. When those tempers or arguments lead to threats, or physical violence, legal consequences can soon follow. If you have been charged with battery, our Aurora domestic violence attorneys will zealously defend your rights.
There are several circumstances in which a domestic battery charge can be successfully defended, including:
• If the victim is the only other person present when the battery occurs, and the victim does not appear in court, the state cannot prevail in the case.
• Most individuals will claim that the battery occurred in self-defense.
A charge of domestic battery can be considered a felony under certain circumstances. If an individual is charged with domestic battery and has a prior domestic battery charge on his or her record, or if the victim received an injury that can be considered harmful or egregious, the battery charge can be a felony. If an individual is convicted of the felony charge, the consequences can include prison time. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney to begin your defense immediately.
Defending that work in a general could be challenging. See also his above comment about “wife beaters.”
*** UPDATE *** Irvin was also interviewed by Craig Dellimore…
Dellimore: What would Richard Irvin say to voters in Illinois who supported Donald Trump?
Irvin: And that’s exactly what JB Pritzker wants us to be talking about, anything other than his record in the state. You know, we got to look at my record, my record, as mayor of the city of Aurora is one of success. I grew up in Aurora, I grew up in public housing and raised by a mother, 16 years old, and in an environment where it seemed like there was no hope. And I served my country and got out of that environment, went to the military. I joined when I was only 18 years old, served my country in time of war, came home, became a prosecutor putting criminals behind bars. And then I became the mayor, the second largest city in the state, first African American mayor, as I pointed out, in 180 years. I’ve got a record of success. The minute I became mayor, I added more police officers to our police department to drive down crime. The minute I became mayor, we started to do economic development. We did more economic development in the last four years, my first four years as mayor than the city has seen in 40 years. And I don’t just say that tooting my horn, there have been buildings that have sat empty in the city, running and ruin and dilapidated for 20 years, 30 years, one 40 years. A building that hadn’t seen its lights turned on in 70 years. All of that is being redeveloped as we speak. There’s not an empty building left in the city of Aurora. All that happened in the first four years and because of it, we’ve created excitement. And we’re now doing new development. There’s not a portion or quadrant of the city that’s not seeing new development right now. What I’ll bring to the state is proven success and will do that and more for the state of Illinois. We will take our state back.
* Greg Hinz talked to Taxpayers’ Federation of Illinois President Carol Portman and Civic Federation President Laurence Msall about yesterday’s budget proposal…
“The governor’s budget proposal is good news,” said Portman. “I’m sure lots of folks, including us, can find things they wish were in there, or weren’t, but overall it is a refreshing change from what we’ve seen too often in the past. Shoring up the state’s rainy day fund, contributing more than the required minimum to the pension system, and paying down the remainder of the state’s bill backlog are all straight out of the ‘good fiscal policy’ playbook.”
Msall used the same phrase: Good news. If the General Assembly follows Pritzker’s lead and enacts those plus dedicating much of the $3.5 billion the state has left in federal COVID relief to pay off debts in the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund, “That would be a really positive thing.”
Msall even went a little farther, lauding Pritzker for using state revenues that have been surprisingly strong of late to pay off debt first, rather than spending more. That, in part, is due to Pritzker’s decision last year to balance his budget without assuming he’d get lots of federal relief. When that relief came in, the state to some extent had extra money, Msall said. […]
Portman said that while the governor may have balanced his budget without direct federal aid, the rosy news is a direct result of a growing state economy, an economy that was kicked into high gear by enormous pump-priming at the federal level.
That last bit is true. All states benefited from federal spending designed to boost the nation’s economy.
* Meanwhile, the Tribune editorial board appears to be relying on the Illinois Policy Institute’s website, because the board parroted the IPI’s line about the state receiving $14 billion from the feds. Here’s IPI…
After receiving $14 billion in one-time federal aid, Illinois could see a balanced budget for the first time in 22 years
And it’s worth noting that the federal aid hardly was limited to that $14 billion.
The state received a bit over $8 billion for itself and, by federal law, local governments were given the rest. The state was a pass-through entity. If this goof had happened a year ago, I’d think it was deliberate. Now, I just think the board is too lazy and/or ignorant to check facts.
…Adding… From the Illinois Policy Institute…
Illinois received additional funds from CARES as well as an increase in Medicaid matching funds. When you add it all up, its $14 B. If you include all aid to local governments, the number is approx. $32B. Wanted to pass along. Source: https://www.covidmoneytracker.org/.
* Here’s your roundup. I tried to include info that we didn’t cover much yesterday…
* Gov. J.B. Pritzker proposes more money for anti-violence programs, state troopers and nearly $1 billion in temporary tax relief in reelection year budget proposal: Recognizing the GOP message could take hold among critical suburban swing voters, Pritzker proposed allocating $240 million, largely from federal pandemic relief funds, toward community-based violence prevention. That’s close to the total of $250 million he pledged to spend over three years when signing violence prevention legislation last fall. … Pritzker also is proposing an $18.6 million increase to the Illinois State Police budget to hire and train an additional 300 troopers, an additional $10 million in grants for local law enforcement agencies to purchase body cameras as required under the criminal justice overhaul he signed last year, and $20 million to fund a new protection program for witnesses of gang crime. “Crime is a complex and multifaceted problem to tackle, and it’s cynical and counterproductive to simply shout ‘Lock them up’ while providing fewer resources to the people and programs that prevent crime in the first place,” Pritzker said in his speech. “A truly effective approach to tackling crime involves both short-term and long-term investments and a commitment to see those investments through,” he said.
* Pritzker outlines $45.4 billion budget proposal, calling out his critics: Included in the budget are initiatives aimed at expanding the state’s health care workforce. Among those is a $25 million program called the Pipeline for the Advancement of Healthcare, or PATH, workforce program to help community colleges train nurses, technicians and other high-demand health care personnel. It also includes a $180 million Healthcare Workforce Initiative directed at hospitals, clinics and other providers to pay for staff bonuses, continuing education, training and staff retention and recruitment. Some other highlights of the budget proposal include increased funding for all levels of education – early childhood, K-12 and higher education – as well as increased funding for human services like foster care, mental health and disability services; and funding to train and hire 300 new Illinois State Police officers.
* What’s in Pritzker’s proposed budget?: Approximately 21 percent of the budget is dedicated to Pre-K-12 education, an increase of $498 million from one year ago. That includes $350 million for the evidence-based funding formula for K-12 schools, which prioritizes new money toward the schools furthest from their “adequacy” target, which takes into account class sizes, a local district’s property values and other factors. The budget asks for another $54.4 million to provide early childhood education services to another 7,100 children, and another $96 million in transportation and special education grants for schools. Another $12 million would be added to the Regional Offices of Education budget to address truancy and chronic absenteeism, and agriculture education funding would increase by $2 million.
* Gov. JB Pritzker’s $45.4 billion budget plan includes $1 billion in tax cuts: The governor celebrated several financial wins that have happened since he took office. During his tenure, Illinois has received two credit upgrades and reduced a backlog to pay bills. At its worst, the state had $16.7 billion in unpaid bills, with some being unpaid for more than 500 days. He said the average bill now sits unpaid for about 15 days. … The budget plan includes $4 billion in debt paydowns, which the governor’s office said will repay all COVID-19 related borrowing, pay $900 million in delayed health insurance bills and $392 million to other bills, among other things. … The governor’s proposed budget projects decreases from last year in both money coming into the state, down about 4.2%, and money being spent, down about 3.5%.
* Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker offers a $45.4 billion spending plan for 2023, with tax relief taking center stage: Beyond stressing those financial improvements, Pritzker used his speech to also emphasize the physical and economic struggles Illinoisans have faced during the pandemic and repeatedly invoked the teachings of the famed, late anthropologist, Margaret Mead, who taught the importance of caring for others. “Maybe it’s time we remember what Margaret Mead was trying to teach…long ago: that who we are is measured by how we care for those who need us. And that we wouldn’t be standing here today if that simple ancient value wasn’t deeply ingrained in our very existence,” Pritzker said, delivering some of the final lines of his more than 45-minute speech.
* Black and Latino caucuses voice support for proposed budget: The proposed budget includes funding for the Illinois Supreme Court’s requested $26 million to establish comprehensive pretrial services in the 63 counties that lack such services. It includes another $10 million in new appropriations from the Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board to pay for the obligations associated with the SAFE-T Act. … “One of the things I like is we will be addressing healthcare disparities, ensuring economic viability by retaining and creating jobs, investing in small businesses, which is the backbone of our local economies, supporting education,” said Rep. Nick Smith, D-Chicago.
* Gov. J.B. Pritzker Details Temporary Tax Relief Plan in Budget Address Kicking Off Reelection Year: “I urge the governor to release the $30 million from the American Rescue Plan funding for safety net hospitals and hospital transformations,” State Sen. Emil Jones III, D-Chicago, said in a statement. “The safety net grants must be restored back into the budget so that our most vulnerable communities are properly equipped to combat this pandemic and other health disparities. For years, many of our safety nets haven’t seen a dime of their much needed funding. Let’s deliver on the promises we already made before we commit to new ones.”
* ‘The proof’s in the details’: Suburban mayors, business leaders react to Pritzker budget: In Hanover Park, the village’s annual share of the grocery tax is about $690,600, Mayor Rod Craig said. Pritzker said the state will reimburse municipalities for any revenues lost, but “we collect those receipts quarterly. How’s the state going to process that? The proof’s in the details,” Craig said. Likewise with tweaks to motor fuel tax revenues, “for us, we use a lot of that for road resurfacing,” Grayslake Mayor Rhett Taylor said. “The details are important.”
On February 2, 2022, Illinois State Police (ISP) officials investigated three separate traffic crashes involving ISP squad cars. Two Troopers were struck in ISP District 9 – Springfield and one in ISP District 10 – Pesotum. The two crashes in ISP District 9 were both Move Over Law related.
On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at approximately 7:40 a.m., an ISP District 9 Trooper was on the left shoulder of Interstate 72 westbound at mile post 122, near Illiopolis, assisting a stranded motorist who had slid off the roadway due to weather conditions. The squad car was stationary with all of its emergency lights activated. A gray Chevrolet Impala traveling westbound failed to yield to the stationary emergency vehicle, slid on the roadway and struck the rear end of the ISP squad car. The driver of the Chevrolet, 29-year-old Anthony L. Newman of Springfield, IL, was uninjured. The Trooper was transported to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and has since been treated and released. While this crash remains under investigation, a violation of the Move Over Law was a contributing factor.
On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at approximately 12:36 p.m., a Trooper working in ISP District 10 was traveling on Interstate 57 southbound at milepost 181, south of Mattoon in the right lane, without emergency lights activated. A black 2016 Chevrolet Trax driven by Dalton M. McCarthy, a 20-year-old male of Maryland Heights, MO., was traveling in the left lane. As McCarthy passed the Trooper’s squad car, McCarthy lost control on the slick pavement and struck the rear of the squad car. Neither McCarthy nor the Trooper were injured in the crash. McCarthy was cited for Following Too Closely. (No photo available.)
On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, at approximately 3:22 p.m., a Trooper working in ISP District 9 was on the right shoulder of the ramp from southbound Veterans Parkway to Interstate 72 eastbound, in the southwest corner of Springfield, handling a crash. The fully marked squad car was stationary with its emergency lights activated. A vehicle traveling on the ramp lost control on the ice, struck the rear bumper of the squad car, and pushed the squad into the initial wrecked vehicle. The driver of the offending vehicle was uninjured; however, the Trooper was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery. While this crash remains under investigation, a violation of the Move Over Law was a contributing factor.
“The brave men and women of the Illinois State Police (ISP) have placed themselves in harm’s way throughout the day today, will continue to do so throughout the night and will be there long after this winter storm has passed,” stated ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. He continued, “If there is one thing those courageous souls understand it is the fragility of life, yet they continue to do the work of the people, protecting and serving. Please, everyone, stay at home. If you absolutely have to get out, move over and slow down upon approach of first responders. Give them the room they need to assist other motorists and get home safely to their families.”
So far this year, there have been three ISP squad cars struck in relation to the Move Over Law and two Troopers have sustained injuries from Move Over Law-related crashes. The ISP would like to remind the public of the requirements of the Move Over Law, otherwise known as the “Scott’s Law”. When approaching an emergency vehicle, or any vehicle with their emergency or hazard lights activated, drivers are required to slow down AND move over. A person who violates Scott’s Law, commits a business offense and faces a fine of no less than $250 or more than $10,000 for a first offense. If the violation results in injury to another person, the violator’s driver’s license will be suspended for a mandatory period of anywhere between six months and two years.
* Photos…
“The brave men & women of the ISP have placed themselves in harm’s way throughout the day today, will continue to do so throughout the night & will be there long after this winter storm has passed…they continue to do the work of the people, protecting & serving.” -Director Kelly pic.twitter.com/uqMFCjzLCa
On February 3, 2022, Illinois State Police (ISP) officials investigated three separate traffic crashes involving ISP squad cars. Two Troopers were struck in ISP District 10 – Pesotum and one in ISP District 5 – Lockport. The crash in ISP District 5 was Move Over Law related.
On Thursday, February 3, 2022, at approximately 2:00 a.m., an ISP District 10 Trooper was handling a crash on the right shoulder of Interstate 74 eastbound at mile post 188 near Urbana. The squad car was stationary with all of its emergency lights activated. A Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer driven by Leonard A. Smith, a 30-year-old male of Trenton, NJ, sideswiped the ISP squad car. Neither Smith nor the Trooper were injured in the crash. Smith was cited for Driving Too Fast for Conditions.
On Thursday, February 3, 2022, at approximately 5:19 a.m., an ISP District 5 Trooper was in the right lane of Interstate 80 westbound at mile post 139 near New Lenox, conducting traffic control for a tow truck. The marked squad car was stationary with all of its lights activated. A red Mazda traveling westbound failed to yield to the stationary emergency vehicle, slid on the roadway and struck the rear end of the ISP squad car. Neither the driver of the Mazda nor the Trooper were injured in the crash. The driver of the Mazda was cited for Driving Too Fast for Conditions, Improper Lane Usage, and Scott’s Law Violation.
On Thursday, February 3, 2022, at approximately 10:00 a.m., an ISP District 10 Trooper was traveling westbound on Interstate 74 at mile post 203 near Muncie. A blue Volkswagen Passat traveling westbound struck the rear end of the ISP squad car. Neither the driver of the Volkswagen nor the Trooper were injured in the crash. This crash is still pending further investigation. (No photo available.)
“During inclement weather, obeying Scott’s Law is even more important,” stated ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. He continued, “As the officers of the Illinois State Police (ISP) continue to put their lives on the line, we ask you, the motoring public, to help them out by Slowing Down and Moving Over while they do their jobs.”
So far this year, there have been four ISP squad cars struck in relation to the Move Over Law and two Troopers have sustained injuries from Move Over Law-related crashes. The ISP would like to remind the public of the requirements of the Move Over Law, otherwise known as the “Scott’s Law”. When approaching an emergency vehicle, or any vehicle with their emergency or hazard lights activated, drivers are required to slow down AND move over. A person who violates Scott’s Law, commits a business offense and faces a fine of no less than $250 or more than $10,000 for a first offense. If the violation results in injury to another person, the violator’s driver’s license will be suspended for a mandatory period of anywhere between six months and two years.
* Still coming down here. What’s going on by you?…
Here are the latest road conditions. As you can see, it is a mess over nearly the entire state. Please stay home if you are able to give our crews more room to work.
“I’m not accustomed to good news in a budget speech. This is a budget proposal unlike any I’ve seen in my time in the Senate. It speaks to the work we’ve done, together, to bring stability to our state finances. That stability allows us to invest back in our state and provide relief to those hit hardest by the pandemic and associated economic downturn. There’s a lot to like with this plan, and I look forward to working with the governor to produce a final product.”
* Speaker Chris Welch…
The governor’s budget address lays out a clear path to continue moving our state toward financial stability and surety while prioritizing hardworking Illinoisans. I could not be more proud of this state and the significant progress we’ve made in such a short amount of time.
It’s hard to imagine, but just a few years ago under the previous Republican administration we had a bill backlog of $17 billion, human service programs were decimated, our credit rating reached near junk status and Illinoisans were suffering because of it. It is thanks to hard work and responsible fiscal management that we are now in the position to discuss property tax relief, tax cuts for everyday necessities, millions in new spending for education, major investments in public safety and nearly eliminating our bill-payment backlog.
Our future is much brighter and our fiscal outlook is strong. This proposal by Governor Pritzker is an excellent starting point for our legislative budget negotiations. We cannot lose sight of the fact that we are still very much in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic and we must continue providing relief to people who are struggling. I have full confidence in Leader Greg Harris, his budget team, our appropriations committees and our Democratic Caucus to produce a final product that continues to build a better Illinois for all.
In his State of the State budget address, Gov. Pritzker failed to include a popular proposal now up for debate in the General Assembly, which would provide 4.5 million low-income Illinoisans tax relief via an expansion to the Earned Income Credit. Shortly before the speech, the independent Center for Tax and Budget Accountability released a new report from finding the proposal would bring $1 billion in economic benefits to local economies, more than double the cost of the proposal and an overall net benefit of $600 million to the state.
“We are disappointed that the Governor’s ‘Family Relief Plan’ left low-income families behind. We are still in a pandemic, where families—particularly low-income families—continue to struggle. An expanded Earned Income Credit and new Child Tax Credit would directly benefit Illinoisans by putting cash in their hands and indirectly drive local economic investment for Illinois to build back better, ” said Harish I. Patel, Director of Economic Security for Illinois, a group which leads the Cost-of-Living Refund Coalition. “Our coalition will continue to fight alongside our partners in the General Assembly to provide permanent tax relief to Illinoisans who need it most.”
* A.J. Wilhelmi, President and CEO of the Illinois Health and Hospital Association…
“The Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA) echoes Gov. Pritzker’s heartfelt recognition of the extraordinary efforts undertaken by hospitals and healthcare workers around the state in the collective fight against COVID-19 over the last two years.
“The Governor’s budget proposal importantly allocates resources to begin addressing healthcare staffing shortages, which have been worsened by the pandemic. We support the Governor’s proposed funding for programs designed to help bring more workers into healthcare professions, and to help recruit and retain healthcare workers.
“Continuing to fully support our heroic, but fatigued, hospitals and healthcare workers will ensure that the Illinois hospital community remains viable and strong as they care for their patients in their time of need.
“IHA and the hospital community stand ready to work with the Governor and the General Assembly to enact a budget that ensures Illinois will emerge from this pandemic with its robust and innovative healthcare delivery system intact—and with hospitals having the necessary support to continue providing high-quality services to all Illinoisans.”
* Chicagoland Chamber…
“Between the commitment to further allocate funds to our state’s pensions, invest in workforce and economic development, increase funding for public safety, and pay down Illinois’ debt, we commend the Governor for the fiscal approach taken in this year’s proposed budget. Chicago’s business community has endured great hardship over the past several years, from an ongoing pandemic to rising property tax assessments and bills as well as violent crime that threatens every neighborhood throughout the city. The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce stands ready to work with elected officials to ensure these proposed policies are enacted as well as to provide needed resources to our business community to both further economic growth and recovery and foster job creation and opportunity across Chicago and the state of Illinois,” said Jack Lavin, president & CEO, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.
* Illinois State Medical Society…
Illinois doctors are grateful that this budget commits to eliminating the reimbursement backlog for people covered under the state’s health plan. For many years medical practices serving state employees and retirees struggled as they waited months and months for reimbursement. The length of delayed reimbursement has improved in recent years and with this budget, if approved, should go away. This is good news.
In addition, ISMS appreciates the Governor’s acknowledgement of the Illinois medical community during this pandemic and his proposal to eliminate licensure fees for healthcare professionals. And we support funding the loan forgiveness programs that will help more doctors get into rural and underserved areas.
We also back the Governor’s ongoing efforts to continue to support the public health measures needed to mitigate COVID-19.
* IEC…
“The Illinois Environmental Council applauds Gov. JB Pritzker for proposing a state budget that prioritizes resources for combatting climate change, a first in Illinois history. Never before has an Illinois governor outlined such a strong budgetary commitment to climate solutions, including enactment of the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act, significant investments in electric vehicle infrastructure and support for clean energy and clean transportation manufacturing. Today’s proposal includes important first steps to rebuilding and adequately resourcing Illinois’ environmental and conservation state agencies, including increased staffing, something IEC has repeatedly called for. Finally, we are also thrilled to see the $113 million investment in replacing toxic lead service lines across the state.
“While more still needs to be done to safeguard our state’s natural resources the public health of all Illinoisans, these investments and those in the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act mark a turning point for our state, and we look forward to working with Gov. Prizkter and his administration to continue building Illinois’ nationally recognized climate leadership.”
* INA…
The Illinois Nurses Association supports Governor J.B. Pritzker’s plans to provide relief and financial support for important elements of the Illinois nursing work force. The Governor laid out his plans for Illinois in a combined State of the State and budget address today.
Nurses in Illinois have been serving patients in a pandemic that now enters its third year—nurses are stressed out, burned out, underpaid and underappreciated. We welcome the Governor’s support and are looking forward to working with him to help build the nursing workforce of the future.
INA officials also support the Governor’s efforts to ease the costs of obtaining a nursing license and his administration’s investment in nurses through the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce Program and the Nursing Scholarship Education Program.
These programs can play an important role in recruiting new nurses to the health care workforce to help treat patients in the future.
* Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association…
“The hospitality and tourism industry, which has historically served as an anchor for Illinois’ economy, has been devastated by the pandemic – losing more than $111.8 billion in room revenue alone nationally. These losses have contributed to widespread layoffs, with many workers unable to return as recreational and business travel continues to be disrupted. Despite these struggles, Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget proposal neglected to offer any relief to the industry, which prior to the pandemic brought in $4 billion a year in state and local taxes and supported more than 290,000 jobs. As the governor looks for ways to support working families, we call on him to embrace our Hotel Jobs Recovery Plan, which would allocate $250 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to hotels across the state. We urge the legislature and the Governor to support this initiative. This plan is an essential part of getting the industry, and our tourism and hospitality economy, back on stable footing and we look forward to working with the governor to make it a reality,” said Michael Jacobson, president & CEO, Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association.
* Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery…
“From the start of the pandemic, Governor Pritzker has steadfastly followed the science to protect our communities and move our state forward. We thank him for establishing mask and vaccine mandates that are helping keep our schools open and students and staff safe.
“The budget Governor Pritzker proposed today prioritizes the needs of students and educators and the delivery of public services to our most vulnerable Illinoisans. His proposed $350 million increase is a step toward adequately funding K-12 schools, especially in our neediest communities. But preK-12 funding is still billions of dollars short of the Evidence Based-Model funding target, which would provide the resources to educate every Illinois child well, no matter their zip code. We urge Governor Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly to work toward fully funding the Evidence Based-Model.
“Critically, the state’s higher education system is suffering from decades of disinvestment. We are encouraged by the supplemental FY22 increase in funding for community colleges and universities that carries over to FY23. We urge the legislature to include this vital increase in higher education funding in the final budget.
“We also welcome the long-overdue recognition that the state must pay its bills – including the unfunded pension liability. The governor has proposed $500 million in pension funding over and above the required payment. This saves the state money in the long term and it’s the right thing to do.
“The pandemic will have lasting economic effects on students, educators, school staff, and communities of color. We applaud the governor for taking the necessary steps to assist in their recovery by providing some tax relief. The cuts to grocery and gas taxes and doubling the state property tax rebate will help provide the support that Illinois families need right now.
“The IFT looks forward to continuing to work with Governor Pritzker as he focuses on the state’s economic recovery from the pandemic.”
* SEIU Healthcare…
“As a union of the frontline home care, child care and healthcare workers who have experienced the direct impact of underfunded public services greatly exacerbated by a pandemic, we applaud the Governor’s continued commitment to responsible fiscal management.
“The Governor’s proposed budget is a step in the right direction, drawing upon the state’s strong economic performance and available Federal funding to pay for desperately needed rate increases for home care and child care workers as well as investment in schools, early childhood education, nursing home rate reform, mental health care, and the healthcare workforce in general.
“While the budget released today will provide crucial help to the workers and communities hardest hit by the pandemic, additional investment is still needed. We look forward to working with the Governor and the General Assembly to address the need for additional investment in crucial care services and infrastructure in communities across the state.
* Responsible Budget Coalition…
As a coalition of the state’s leading advocacy, human service, community and labor organizations, we judge any budget by these principles: It must contain adequate revenue, fairly raised, and it must avoid cuts to vital programs and services.
Sound fiscal management has put our state in a position to continue funding for many public services despite the COVID pandemic. With the state’s strong economic performance and important assistance from the federal government, we have more funds available to help all Illinoisans thrive, including those hardest hit by the ongoing pandemic.
The budget released today is a step in that direction. We are pleased with the funding increases for education as well as the focus on a number of other one time investments. However, Illinois must do more to focus on budget policies that would provide adequate revenue to support critical programs along with long-term tax relief to the lowest income people, by requiring the wealthy to pay their fair share.
We look forward to working with the Governor and the General Assembly to pass a budget that meets our moral obligation to fully fund education, health care, and human services. RBC will continue to further our mission to ensure that Illinois stays on sound financial footing as well as meeting the needs of its’ people. Working together, we can do both.
* Illinois Partners for Human Service…
Illinois Partners for Human Service, a coalition of more than 850 health and human service providers across the state of Illinois, is encouraged by Governor Pritzker’s FY23 budget proposal. We appreciate the priorities outlined in this budget for the health and human service sector and commend the significant investments proposed. Specifically, we are glad to see rate increases for many health and human services programs, including Behavioral Health, Developmental Disability Services, Childcare, the Community Care Program, and other key investments that will strengthen our sector and our communities.
Our health and human service coalition partners have been on the frontlines navigating this pandemic from the onset, and have tirelessly shouldered the burden of care for our communities. While state and federal relief dollars have been directed to our sector over the past two years, very little of this funding has addressed the systemic challenges facing the health and human services workforce. This budget is definitely a step in the right direction. At the same time, more work needs to be done to rectify the consequences of twenty years of disinvestment in the health and human service workforce in our state.
We look forward to working with the administration and our legislators to do everything possible to reduce administrative burden and ensure funding is directed to community providers. These organizations are trusted by those hardest hit by this pandemic, and their work is essential to the well-being of all Illinoisans.
* IMA…
“Facing record inflation, supply chain disruptions and workforce shortages, manufacturers across Illinois need support from policymakers to continue investing in our communities, growing our economy, and ensuring consumers receive the medicines, food and important goods they rely on. While we are encouraged by some of the priorities outlined by the Governor, including a significant investment in job training and workforce development programs, a focus on manufacturing careers, enhanced pension payment and the extension of the critical EDGE tax incentive, we must not lose sight of long-term challenges. These include policies that increase operating costs on employers and threaten job growth, such as $4.5 billion in debt plaguing the state’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund,” said Mark Denzler, president & CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “Manufacturers have time and again demonstrated our willingness to take on tough challenges and solve problems, and we remain prepared to work with the Governor and lawmakers to find solutions.”
…Adding… By Amdor’s request…
*A more thorough analysis of Governor Pritzker's FY23 budget proposal is forthcoming shortly
The Illinois Community College Trustees Association and the Illinois Council of Community College Presidents applaud Governor Pritzker and his administration for their planned investment in higher education through the FY 2023 budget, and support the proposed funding increases to operationalize strategies outlined in the collectively developed plan A Thriving Illinois: Higher Education Paths to Equity, Sustainability and Growth.
An unprecedented increase of $122 million in MAP funding will ensure more equitable access to higher education for all Illinois residents. This increase will also enable MAP grants to cover a greater portion of students’ tuition costs and expand funding eligibility to students pursuing short-term certificates or credentials in fields that meet essential workforce needs in our local communities, such as commercial driver’s license (CDL) and certified nursing assistant (CNA) credentials.
Illinois community colleges stand ready to partner with the Governor’s Office in the new and innovative Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare (PATH) workforce program to support and expand opportunities for growing the nursing and healthcare worker pipeline. The $25 million in funding will assist community colleges with enhancing programming and wrap-around services to recruit future healthcare workers, remove barriers to entry into healthcare fields for low-income, first generation and minority students, and develop career advancement pathways for incumbent healthcare workers. These steps are essential to addressing unprecedented healthcare worker shortages and provide a ready supply of future workers.
The ongoing pandemic combined with years of near stagnant funding have strained higher education budgets, programming and services. A five percent increase to community college operational funding, and the addition of supplemental funding opportunities, will further strengthen our local institutions while easing the financial burden on local taxpayers and students.
Collectively, the proposed investments in higher education will assist the state in closing historic equity gaps and improve student outcomes for underrepresented students group, while retaining Illinois residents and creating pathways for development of a skilled workforce in key areas of the labor force to support the state’s business and industry.
Illinois community colleges are proud to work collaboratively with Governor Pritzker’s administration and our legislative leaders to maintain Illinois’ leadership as one of the most respected and progressive higher education systems in the nation, and we strongly support the proposed FY 2023 budget.
The people of this state are smart enough to see he is using one-time election-year gimmicks to cover up the fact he has gone back on his word and done nothing to change the structural problems facing our state’s finances.
This one’s pretty easy. Proposing to use revenue windfalls this year and next to put $500 million extra into pensions (which saves $1.8 billion down the road), pay off the $900 million debt that’s been carried for maybe a decade by the state employee/retiree group health insurance program, zero out the $230 million College Illinois debt that people had swept under the rug for years, stash $800 million in a previously empty rainy day fund are all part of addressing the state’s structural problems.
Is it enough? Nope. If it were up to me, I’d take all of that $1 billion tax cut and put it into paying down longterm debt, but I don’t have to run for office to keep my job. And what’s the Republican alternative? Well, the House GOPs have been a little light on details (as in, none at all), but the Senate Republicans want permanent tax cuts. Talk about making the structural problems worse.
* I’m not trying to pick on Tim, by the way. This was a common refrain today by Republicans. House GOP Leader Durkin…
The budget laid out by Governor Pritzker today is packed with gimmicks and one-time tricks, but no structural reforms.
* Rep. Dan Ugaste…
Now, without a graduated income tax, he’s painting a rosy picture of our state’s fiscal health while ignoring the structural causes of Illinois’ fiscal instability.
There were more, but you get the drift.
* Let’s move on to another objection. Rep. Avery Bourne…
When you dig into Pritzker’s budget proposal, our state revenue is projected to decrease by almost half a billion dollars next year, while spending is going up by over $2 billion. This kind of spending growth is irresponsible and unsustainable.
It’s not quite that simple. From GOMB…
That shows expenditures will fall by $1.6 billion.
* Here’s Sen. Win Stoller…
In fact, this budget increases spending. It creates new and permanent spending of $2.5 billion, potentially leaving us in a precarious financial position once our temporary federal revenue is exhausted
* From the Senate Republicans…
The Republicans are certain that revenues will crash in the future and fear that Pritzker would lock them in to spending hikes. The governor’s office thinks we’re heading back to more “normal” revenue growth after this next year.
* Anyway, I asked the governor’s office about this and was told: “We balanced a budget with realistic revenue for next year. Not fantasy revenue. And if we have to make cuts because revenue goes down lower we will. Because we’ve done it before. We believe in balanced budgets.”
* Aside from the usual complaining from the usual types who all seem to be using the same words in their objections to the new budget proposal, there are some legit critiques by folks who actually have an influence over the legislative process. For instance, this was sent today by Operating Engineers Local 150. Subscribers saw it earlier this week…
While Local 150 supports the Governor’s plan to seek tax relief for families during these difficult times, providing that relief by raiding $135 million from Illinois’ road fund is not a responsible option.
Only a week ago, we saw a bridge collapse in Pennsylvania, and there are currently more than 2,000 structurally deficient bridges in Illinois. Our state is only beginning to make progress on this, and now is not the time to start writing IOU’s for our critical infrastructure.
When 80 percent of Illinois voters passed the Safe Roads Amendment in 2016, they made clear their opposition to political interference with the road fund. Investing in the safety of our infrastructure is popular with voters of every political stripe in Illinois, and voters overwhelmingly disapprove of diverting money from the road fund.
There are ways for the Governor to accomplish his goal without short-changing the road fund, and we look forward to engaging in a meaningful dialogue with his office in the days to come to find solutions that provide relief without compromising safety or economic competitiveness.
* The co-chairs of this group are the director of the Chicago Laborers District Council and a top exec with the Illinois Asphalt Pavement Association…
The Transportation for Illinois Coalition, an umbrella organization of business, labor and infrastructure groups that advocates for federal and state transportation funding, today issued the following statement in response to Gov. Pritzker’s proposed Fiscal Year 2023 budget plan:
“We are concerned about the Governor’s proposal to skip the expected small increase in the state’s motor fuel tax this summer, as part of his plan to provide tax relief in the upcoming budget year.
We understand the desire to address drivers’ concerns with current high gas prices. But this change – skipping an expected increase of 2.2 cents per gallon scheduled for July 1 – will save the average driver a maximum of less than $1 per fill up.
While those savings will take a long time to make a difference in the daily commute for drivers, the $135 million in revenue loss to the state’s Road Fund will be more significant and long lasting.
For many years, Illinois diverted money intended for road and bridge construction into other needs and allowed revenues to fall short of inflation, creating a huge backlog of billions of dollars in infrastructure needs. In 2019, we worked with the Legislature and Gov. Pritzker to increase the state’s motor fuel tax to begin to address the backlog, and to tie the tax in the future to a cost-of-living increase each summer to keep up with increasing construction costs.
Taking $135 million out of the planned construction program now will have a more significant impact over several years, as projects that could be planned with those funds will be delayed. At the same time, revenues will not keep up with rising inflation-driven construction costs. It also could create a political temptation to skip future scheduled small tax increases that will worsen our funding problem.
We encourage the Governor and Legislature to carefully consider this change and weigh whether the small relief for consumers will be worth the larger costs to the state’s infrastructure system – costs that we all pay.”
* The Illinois Chamber chimed in with its support for organized labor’s position…
We support the Governor’s proposals that will temporarily lessen the tax burden on Illinois taxpayers, but we believe that his proposed array of tax cuts needs to be revised. Of greatest concern is the Governor’s call to disregard a bipartisan commitment to adequately fund our vital transportation infrastructure. We join our friends in labor in expressing our concern that the Governor’s proposal on the gas tax is an end run around the transportation lockbox amendment.
* Statement by Jordan Abudayyeh earlier this week…
The Governor looks forward to presenting a fiscally responsible balanced budget that uses one time revenue to ease the unique burden of inflation on working families. The road fund is incredibly healthy with projects moving forward on time and on budget and the FY23 budget proposal will not be a hindrance on projects moving forward this year.
The scandal enveloping congresswoman Marie Newman—who is accused of signing and then reneging on a contract to pay a political rival not to run against her—has taken a shocking new turn. Federal campaign records show that after striking a secret settlement with the rival, the Illinois Democrat did, in fact, put the man on her campaign payroll.
In October 2018, Newman allegedly signed a contract with Iymen Chehade promising him a cozy six-figure salary on her congressional staff in exchange for his political support, according to the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE). When Newman ultimately didn’t hire Chehade after she won her 2020 election, he sued.
The two reached an undisclosed settlement over the summer. But, it turns out, that’s not the end of the story.
Newman’s latest FEC filings show she did hire Chehade as a foreign policy adviser—only instead of being paid through her congressional office, Chehade was hired through Newman’s campaign.
Chehade has received a total of $54,000 since the second half of 2021, mostly in salary installments of $7,500 a month, but sometimes with additional $2,000 payments. According to the FEC filings, the disbursements to Chehade began on July 1, 2021, just two days after both sides reached a deal to resolve the lawsuit.
The ethics complaint against Newman had been filed by the Foundation for Accountability and Trust, a right-wing group founded by Matthew Whittaker, who served as President Donald Trump’s former acting attorney general. A Republican operative described the group as “a chop shop of fake ethics complaints” to New York in 2018. But it’s not just right-wingers questioning Newman’s account. Her main contention is that she hired Chehade not to keep him out of the race, but because she needed his foreign policy expertise — particularly on Palestinian issues. It’s an assertion that multiple sources called inaccurate. “It strikes me as a complete fabrication that there weren’t Palestinian voices she consulted who are smart and educated on these issues,” says a source close to the Newman campaign.
Newman said she had sought out Chehade because he had “very specific knowledge around Palestine and Israel that I needed,” she said in an interview with ethics investigators last fall. “We had looked for Palestinian advisors and we could never find one.” Newman had also told investigators that she never discussed Chehade’s interest or intentions to run in the Illinois 3rd primary — only a potential run for state senate or alderman instead. She disclosed to ethics investigators that Chehade had briefly mentioned flirting with a congressional campaign when the two first met in May 2018, but he’d wanted to help her build her Israel-Palestine platform, instead.
But when Newman began mapping out her 2020 run, she had expressed concern about Chehade entering the race, according to a former Newman ally familiar with her thinking at the time. They recall her mentioning Chehade in the context of running, not as an advisor. “Marie never mentioned she’d asked Chehade to be an advisor,” the source said. Sources also suggest Newman overstates the necessity of bringing in Chehade to advise on Israel-Palestine issues, claiming she was already well-connected with experts and community leaders on both sides of the conflict. (The sources spoke with Rolling Stone on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss sensitive political topics without fear of personal retribution.)
* But some of her enemies have decided to invent oppo, which in this case is truly stupid because they’re funneling money to a convicted felon…
Pretty sure I was pitched this video by 314 Action PAC yesterday. I declined. What a crock https://t.co/bMeEirln3M
This man from Petersburg, Illinois really sought out the one and only boarded up building on Taylor Street (which is currently being renovated into apartments and a museum) to make his oh-so-clever "Chicago is a warzone" quip in a campaign ad. Really groundbreaking, honest stuff. https://t.co/Zu5DMC6Kfjpic.twitter.com/TR4GTw9lJO
Not that it matters to Sullivan at all, since he's just playing to downstate voters who know nothing about Chicago, but using this particular building as a prop is an insult to the memory of Deverra Beverly, who worked incredibly hard to see it restored. https://t.co/yUYnpHF7h6
Despite what we’re told, this is not some unavoidable nationwide rise. This is the direct result of anti-police, anti-accountability policies pushed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. In partnership with the House Democratic Caucus, they have crippled our law enforcement with policies that are unwise and that threaten the safety of every resident in this state — most importantly, our kids.
It is time for bold action. I recently released my Safe Streets action plan, calling for three concrete steps to save Illinois: First, we must enforce our laws. Second, we must honor and defend our heroes in law enforcement. Third, we must restore accountability, by taking criminals off the streets and by keeping the most violent offenders behind bars.
But that’s not all. Foxx, who releases violent criminals on the streets, must be recalled. I will lead the charge to recall or defeat Foxx for violating her oath of office and her obligation to Cook County and Chicago residents to uphold the rule of law.
Lightfoot has become the leader of the anti-police movement in Illinois and in its largest city. I am committed to working with the principled, commonsense problem solver who can defeat her in 2023.
Local violence is part of a national trend. And this whole idea of a leader picking huge political fights to the death with other elected officials didn’t work out so well for our former governor or the city’s current mayor.
* Made me chuckle…
I thought Richard Irvin was the one who activated the National Guard in Illinois. https://t.co/aPMExHY7qe
Republican lieutenant governor candidate Stephanie Trussell says it’s no surprise in an election year that Gov. Pritzker wants to freeze taxes. She says Pritzker is why the taxes are high and he wants to make himself look like a savior.
There is an adage in politics that says the worse the internal poll numbers are, the more gimmicky a candidate’s campaign proposals become. For Governor JB Pritzker, 2022 is shaping up to be a bad year for his electoral hopes as crime, corruption, and high taxes continue running roughshod over Illinois families.
He needs a pick-me-up and this year’s joint budget and State of the State address is his latest attempt at distracting Illinoisans from his disastrous leadership and well documented record of asking us to pay more for a state government that doesn’t work.
Despite today’s election year gimmicks, Pritzker has a consistent record of supporting tax hikes. Sometimes he was successful in enacting them, and sometimes he was not. Let’s check the tape:
• Pritzker spent $58 million of his own money to try and convince Illinoisans to change the state constitution allowing for a massive income tax hike and the ability for Springfield lawmakers to increase middle class taxes whenever they want. Luckily, Illinois families said no to the largest tax hike in state history.
• Failing to pass the largest tax hike in Illinois history, Pritzker then turned to small businesses, increasing taxes by over $600 million on job creators across the state.
• When the federal bailout disappears and Pritzker’s out-of-control spending sends us even deeper into debt, Pritzker’s already telegraphed what he will do next: raise the income tax by 20%.
“Pritzker has never once pursued true property tax relief for Illinois families despite billions of dollars in federal bailout money flowing to our state, complete Democrat control at the capitol, and three years to get it done,” said ILGOP Chairman Don Tracy. “And now he has the audacity to trot out these campaign gimmicks that pale in comparison to the $5.2 billion in tax and fee hikes he has already imposed on us? Pritzker is a proven tax-hiker, and that’s why we need a Governor who will provide permanent property tax relief, spend within our means, and lower taxes.”
Most of those tax and fee hikes were approved in 2019 and included Republican votes. He didn’t impose anything.
…Adding… Gary Rabine sent out this press release 18 minutes before the governor was set to start speaking…
“Today we witnessed how out of touch our billionaire Governor, JB Pritzker, is with the people of Illinois. In his State of the State/Budget address, he described the State of Illinois in terms that only someone who spends his days in the cocoon of a North-side mansion or private jet could use.”
“JB Pritzker has not done one thing to improve the fundamental fiscal trajectory of the state. Biden paid off JB’s Illinois credit cards last year, but we are still in a fiscal death spiral. A one-time bailout from the federal government does not equate with sound fiscal management. Millions of dollars spent on TV and digital ads doesn’t turn fantasy into reality either.”
“The truth is that Illinois, outside of the Astor Street Mansion, is far different than what JB described. Chicago and its suburbs are the crime capitols of the country. Our unfunded public pension liability is at $130 billion – the worst in the nation. Our state has lost hundreds of thousands of jobs due to JB’s heavy handed, unilateral decision to shut down the state’s economy. We are the highest taxed state in the country and more people left Illinois in the last decade than any other state.”
“All might be well with the wine and cheese crowd but for the rest of us, it’s time for a new direction in Illinois.”
…Adding… Richard Irvin…
“It is no surprise that the Tax-Hiker-In-Chief is attempting to rewrite history today to mislead Illinois voters in an election year with gimmicks that rely on a disappearing federal bailout. This is the same governor who pushed for the largest tax hike in our state’s history on Illinois families and businesses, and we know he plans to raise billions more in taxes when the federal money runs out. The only way to stop Pritzker’s permanent tax hike campaign is at the ballot box in November.”
…Adding… House GOP Leader Durkin…
“The governor’s budget address is always a wish-list, and this year it’s clear that the governor wishes to be reelected. The budget laid out by Governor Pritzker today is packed with gimmicks and one-time tricks, but no structural reforms. The people of Illinois deserve a governor who will be honest and work to actually fix things like property taxes and out-of-control crime.”
House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch will be listening for comments on Covid relief: “The surge we had in December and January reminds us that we’re still in the midst of a global pandemic and there’s more relief needed, and so I’m looking forward to hearing the governor’s ideas on that,” Welch said in an interview.
Senate President Don Harmon hopes to hear Pritzker “make a serious investment in public safety. in building up the ranks of our state police, and ensuring local governments have the resources to add and train local police officers and give them the equipment that they need.”
Republicans aren’t wowed by Pritzker’s plan for temporary tax cuts and property tax rebates, seeing it as an election-year gimmick.
State Rep. Blaine Wilhour, who represents part of southern Illinois, hopes the governor might defend what rights parents have to make decisions about their child’s health and having their kids vaccinated. “Parents need more rights and respect than what they get,” he told Playbook.
And in a statement, Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie said instead of “short-term, one-time relief,” what Illinois families “really need are long-lasting solutions that make it affordable to live here.”
Snow storm stiff arm: Pritzker to deliver State of State from Old State Capitol after House cancels session
[…] Pritzker’s closest aides scrambled to find a backup venue after a severe snow storm forecast forced the House and Senate to send their members home and cancel the week of scheduled legislative session. Without an invitation from the House, the governor had no grand stage to deliver his speech, and state law required him to deliver his budget address on the first Wednesday in February this year.
Um, no. Almost immediately after the decision to cancel session was made by the three Democratic leaders (including the governor) Monday evening, the governor’s people were telling me they wanted Pritzker to give his State of the State/budget address at the Old State Capitol. They only “scrambled” because they were unsure at first if the venue would be available. But the place was ideal for them because, unlike the House chamber, the Old State Capitol has a smallish chamber and they envisioned a smallish audience in attendance (including, as it now turns out, GOMB staffers who’ve never personally witnessed a budget address before, which is pretty cool). Also, state law only requires the governor to submit his budget plan to the General Assembly. He could’ve just sent them the text of his speech and his proposed legislation.
* But, just to be on the safe side, I reached out to House Speaker Chris Welch’s spokesperson Jaclyn Driscoll for comment…
We never disinvited the governor. And I am confident in saying we would have worked with him if he wanted to deliver the speech in the chamber. There were so many ideas discussed [Monday], but it came down to what the Governor wanted to do. The Speaker is fairly close with the Governor and he’s not trying to ’stiff arm’ him.
Driscoll added later that the House has no rules which would’ve prohibited the governor from using the House chamber for his address.
* Background is here and here if you need it. Darren Bailey talking on Facebook…
I’ve been blessed to be able to do these lives with you. I think I’ve been very consistent in my messaging and my purpose. Yesterday, fake liberal news somehow or another assumed that I was calling one of my opponents the devil. [laughs] Just go back and watch it and you make your own decision. I am honored and blessed that that fake liberal media is actually listening. Maybe some of this truth of God’s word will penetrate to their hearts and change change their lives and they’ll start reporting on truth. And wouldn’t that be awesome?
Lying is a sin.
* Speaking of which, before we get into the rest of his remarks, let’s do a bit of basic education…
What is a levy?
The amount of money a school district and/or local government (taxing districts) certifies to be raised from property tax.
I’m just going to share a little bit of this with you because there’s a lot of it. I ran for state Representative for the 2018 election, I ran against a tax hiker. And I was met with the full force and fury of my own people, my own party who wanted to keep me away because they wanted to keep a yes person. They wanted to keep people in that would raise taxes, would raise gas taxes. And we’ve got some of those people are running, actually, as in Lieutenant Governor positions, people who have raised your gas taxes by 20%. Do your education on these people.
But anyway, just a little bit of what’s going on. Many of your social media outlets were flooded yesterday with posts that Darren Bailey taxed elderly people out of their homes. And as a matter of fact, one of the most egregious fake news outlets and fake news reporters even came down and, and reported such a story. And I would appreciate if you just listen, if you see that story, just listen to it and dig deep into it and really listen to what you’re hearing, because what you’re hearing is not what this person is saying.
How many school board members do we have out there how many people who have served on an on a township board and and on a local community board and from time to time have have passed levies to keep your schools open, to keep certain particular interest open? You know that when you deal with a levy, that you’re not creating a burden, some tax that taxes people out of their homes ,that taxes the elderly, many of you know this and if you don’t go to your go to your county assessor and go and start talking about this, start getting yourself educated on how this works.
Many times the purpose of a levy is to fulfill what has not been promised temporarily and that’s what happened many times on the North Clay School Board. And and I was so honored and blessed by serving with the boards that I serve, we did an amazing job of communicating to the people and let giving them the option. And not just once, not trying to hide it, not trying to hide a tax increase or a levy to say that, you know, the next day people wake up and see this. Now we literally many times every time let people know how much exactly per household, you know, per 100 on your on your assessed value that this was going to cost during my term as they on those days. You can also look back and you will see the real reason why property taxes escalated all over the state. When I got on the North Clay School Board. We were one of the lowest taxed school districts in the state. When I got off, we were still well in the bottom third, but we were doing some amazing things that we were up to the 50% pay range on paying where we paid our teachers and what we were doing. We had an amazing school district but sadly enough, my state representative at the time and state government were failing to give the schools their money, you know, they have the education budgets and and many times at the end of the year, you realize that you didn’t get 200,000, 400,000 and on and there were delays. So the purpose of the levy is to fill that void.
So here’s what I went through, the 2018 election and here’s why, some of the same players are at play. And a little bit later I’m going to begin you know, letting you know who those are because they are players that are sitting in positions of power in the Illinois House of Representatives on the Republican side and they’re doing the exact same thing that they did five years ago and four years ago to try to keep me off.
Our mailboxes were full, I don’t even know which one to start with. [Holds up mailer.] ‘Darren Bailey taxed seniors out of their house 14 times when he was on the school board ,brought to you by the Illinois Republican Party.’ That’s where your money is going. [Holds up mailer.] Gosh, ‘Cash King farm subsidy Darrin Bailey, corporate welfare king.’ Think about these messages that we’ve just heard with the PPP money, with the the USDA assistance from for what you know for farms with and now that we’re taxing people. I mean, it’s endless. I got, here’s another one. Millions of dollars were spent on fliers when I was serving as, as running for this position [Holds up mailer] ‘Bought and paid for by Chicago.’ Gosh, friends, this is what we’re up against. And I asked you to get yourself educated, get yourself informed, please share these messages, push this out. This is how we’re going to do this to where, you know, until this is how we’re going to grow this movement.
* The governor’s office has taken the embargo off of this morning’s budget briefing. They’ve revised the surplus upward for this fiscal year and next…
* As I told subscribers earlier, this is huge. An extra $500 million will be put into the pension systems…
* More…
* There was a problem with the screen earlier, so these are from yesterday’s briefing that I shared with subscribers…
* Revenues and spending…
* Education…
* DCFS…
* DHS…
* Public safety and violence prevention…
* DCEO…
* IDNR and IEPA…
* Covid money…
* Capital…
I missed some stuff, but hopefully I’ll be able to link to a briefing book.
* Question about surpluses…
The surplus that we’re on track for in FY 22 is $1.7 billion, that is what is going to then be directed into some of our debt pay-down or Budget Stabilization Fund, and then a part of the tax relief proposal. The the surplus that’s left is the number that’s going into the accounts payable reduction.
* Any change in income tax revenue sharing with local governments? No.
* What about the unemployment insurance trust fund? Negotiations still ongoing through agreed bill process. Planning legislation by April adjournment.
* What percent of homeowners would see property tax relief? About 2 million people claim the income tax credit.
* Can you point to something that repairs a structural budget imbalance? Key part is aligning revenues with expenditures. The $500 million extra pension infusion will get the state funds to the “tread water” point, so that funding is actually paying down the debt. The massive state employee/retiree group health insurance backlog of nearly $900 million that has been around for years will be paid off if the budget is enacted.
* Do you have a Plan B for how to give drivers relief if Local 150 ends up killing your gas tax proposal? Long answer short: Not that I could discern.
