The Bears’ Move Is a Failure of Democrat Leadership
The Chicago Bears’ decision to move forward with stadium development in Hammond, Indiana is an embarrassing failure for Illinois.
As a lifelong Bears fan, I wanted to see the team remain here. The Bears have been part of Illinois for more than a century and are one of the most recognizable franchises in professional sports. Losing them is a major blow to our state.
What makes this even more frustrating is that Governor Pritzker and the Democrat supermajority had years to address this issue. They control every lever of state government and had every opportunity to keep the Bears in Illinois. Instead, after years of negotiations and political gamesmanship, they failed.
When the Bears decide that a former industrial swampland in Hammond is a better place to invest than Illinois, it says everything you need to know about the tax climate and economic direction of our state.
This outcome should not surprise anyone. Governor Pritzker has spent years focused on building his national political profile while Illinois continues to lose businesses, jobs, and opportunities. Illinois deserves leaders focused on fixing problems at home, not chasing ambitions elsewhere.
Mount Carroll I-PASS On Demand Event Set for June 24
I am inviting residents to join Mount Carroll Mayor Carl Bates and I for an upcoming I-PASS On Demand Event on Wednesday, June 24, in Mount Carroll.
This event is a great opportunity for residents to return their old I-PASS transponders, receive a new I-PASS Sticker Tag, and get help managing their accounts. Staff will also be available to assist with transferring deposit balances and helping residents pay invoices without additional fees or fines.
The event will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Davis Community Center, located at 631 South East Street in Mount Carroll.
The new I-PASS Sticker Tags are battery-free, environmentally friendly, and can be used on both Illinois Tollway and E-ZPass roadways after activation.
I encourage anyone with questions about their I-PASS account or who needs to replace an older transponder to stop by. Events like this are a simple but important way to connect residents with helpful state services closer to home.
Chesney Invites Students to Take on Summer Reading Challenge
I’m encouraging students across the 45th District to stay engaged this summer by taking part in my annual Summer Reading program.
The challenge is simple: if you’re entering 1st through 8th grade, I’m asking you to read eight books before August 15th. Summer is a great time to build strong reading habits, explore new interests, and keep your mind sharp while school is out.
I encourage students to visit their local libraries, pick out books they’re excited about, and track their progress along the way. Once you’ve finished all eight books, you can fill out a short online form to complete the challenge.
Students who participate will receive an official certificate of recognition from the Illinois Senate. It’s a great way to celebrate your hard work and commitment to learning.
Contact Lori at LYates@sgop.ilga.gov for any questions.
Bringing More Transparency to Utility Bills
Understanding a utility bill is not always easy. Between fees, surcharges, and other line items, many consumers are left wondering exactly where their money is going each month.
That is why I was pleased to support legislation aimed at providing greater transparency for Illinois utility customers.
House Bill 5524 requires the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) to compile information on electric utility fees and surcharges and make it available to the public in a clear, easy-to-understand format. The information will identify which charges are sent to the state and which are retained by utility companies, giving consumers a better picture of how their bills are structured.
Transparency is an important part of good government. Illinois families deserve access to clear information about the costs they are paying and the policies that affect their monthly expenses.
The measure awaits action from the Governor. If signed into law, it will help provide consumers with a better understanding of the charges appearing on their utility bills.
