Last week during Veto Session, Democrats pushed through a $2.5 billion bailout for Chicago’s mass transit system, paid for by Illinois taxpayers. Their plan raises $1.5 billion in taxes and adds another $1 billion in Tollway increases, including a $0.45 toll hike and a $0.25 sales tax hike across Cook, DuPage, Will, McHenry and Kane Counties. The toll costs will potentially climb every two years, tied to inflation.
I voted NO. There needed to be a fix, but this wasn’t it. Illinois families deserve better than middle-of-the-night tax hikes.
Another big disappointment from Veto Session was SB 25, known as the “Green New Giveaway.” While I 100% support clean energy innovation, it must be done responsibly. Illinois families and small businesses can’t afford skyrocketing bills. This $8 billion energy package will raise utility rates, reduce reliability, and strip local control over renewable projects.
It hands sweeping authority to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) who will now have the power to approve future rate hikes with no caps or safeguards for consumers. That means families and small businesses could see their bills climb even higher, with no meaningful protection in place.
There was a bright spot during Veto Session: property tax relief for seniors. I supported legislation to raise the income threshold for the Senior Citizen Property Tax Freeze, helping more seniors qualify for relief. The new limits will be:
- $75,000 in 2026
- $77,000 in 2027
- $79,000 in 2028 and beyond
This bill also includes increases to the General Homestead Exemption and the low-income senior freeze. It’s now headed to the Governor’s desk.
As always, I’ll keep fighting for transparency, fairness, and real solutions that make Illinois more affordable for everyone.
Pumpkin Carving Contest Winners
Congratulations to sisters Mira and Maya, our Pumpkin Carving Contest winners!
Your creativity shone through your pumpkins.
Thank you to everyone who joined in the fun and shared their amazing pumpkin designs. I loved seeing all the talent and community spirit from across the district!
New Podcast! Table Topics
I participated in a new video podcast called “Table Topics”.
State Representative Travis Weaver and I answered questions about Veto Session in Springfield. What are your thoughts on these topics?
Protecting Against Political Violence
During Veto Session, I proudly voted Yes on House Bill 576, a measure that protects elected officials and candidates from political violence by allowing them to shield personal information and request privacy safeguards. This bill includes concepts I introduced earlier this year in House Bill 1468, and while it doesn’t go as far as I hoped-my original proposal would have extended protections to first responders-it’s a meaningful step forward. After my own family was threatened this summer, I know firsthand how critical it is to ensure public servants can do their jobs without fear. No one should have to trade their personal safety to serve their community.
Read more: La Ha touts bill to protect against political violence – Nicole La Ha
| I couldn’t be prouder to celebrate Lemont High School freshman Sarah Scott, who just made history as the school’s first girls’ golf all-state performer! Sarah placed sixth at the IHSA Class 2A Girls’ Golf State Finals, an incredible achievement, especially in her first season. She was the top freshman finisher across both Class 1A and 2A competitions and delivered the two best rounds ever by a Lemont girls’ golfer at state. Her poise, consistency, and talent on the course are truly inspiring, and I know this is just the beginning of a remarkable journey. Congratulations to Sarah, her coaches, and the entire Lemont golf community! Read more at the Patch: Lemont High School Golfer Becomes School’s First Girls’ Golf All-State Performer | Lemont, IL Patch |
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