Archery Deer Season Underway in Illinois
Bow season is finally here!
Archery deer season opened October 1, giving hunters across the state another opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy one of Illinois’ great hunting traditions.
For most counties, archery season runs through January 17 with breaks during portions of firearm season. Hunters should remember that no more than two antlered deer may be harvested during the year across youth, archery, muzzleloader and firearm seasons combined.
If you are heading into the woods this fall, take a few minutes beforehand to make sure your permits and licenses are in order and review the rules for hunting hours, legal equipment and clothing requirements. Regulations can vary depending on the time of season and where you are hunting.
Most importantly, hunt safely, respect the land and enjoy your time outdoors. Good luck to everyone heading out this season.
Hunters can review the complete 2026-2027 Illinois Archery Deer Hunting Rules and Regulations through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
LIHEAP Funds Now Available
As families continue to deal with the high cost of everyday necessities, help is now available for Illinois residents who are struggling to keep up with their utility bills.
Applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly known as LIHEAP, opened October 1. Applications will remain open through August 13, 2027, or until funding runs out.
Right now, applications are open to adults age 60 and older, individuals with a disability, families with a child age five or younger, and households facing a utility shutoff or running low on propane. All other income-eligible households can begin applying November 1.
When a heating or electric bill suddenly jumps, families should not have to choose between keeping the lights on and paying for groceries or other necessities. If you or someone you know may qualify for this assistance, I encourage you to look into the program and apply.
For eligibility information or to apply, visit the DCEO LIHEAP website or call 1-833-711-0374.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, bringing attention to a disease that impacts thousands of Illinois families every year.
Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in Illinois. While it is not as common, men can also develop the disease, making awareness important for everyone.
Advances in screening and treatment have helped improve outcomes over the years. Early detection can play an important role, which is why October is a good time to make sure you are staying on top of your health and having conversations with your healthcare provider about when screening may be right for you.
Most of us know someone who has faced breast cancer, whether it is a family member, friend, neighbor or coworker. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder of the value of early detection and the resources available to those who may need them.
For more information about breast cancer and screening resources, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Calling for Repeal of Five New Taxes and Fees
Illinois families and businesses already pay some of the highest taxes in the country, but rather than getting serious about state spending, Democrats in Springfield continue looking for new places to find more money.
I’m calling for the repeal of five new taxes and fees approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 revenue package. The measures target digital assets, targeted digital advertising, exchange wagers and fantasy sports.
Some of these new taxes are already tied up in court. Lawsuits have been filed challenging both the Digital Asset Tax and the Targeted Advertising Services Tax, alleging violations of federal law and constitutional protections.
In fact, questions surrounding the targeted advertising tax existed before it was even enacted. When Democrats passed the FY27 budget, they did not count on collecting revenue from the tax during the fiscal year because a legal challenge was already expected.
Taxpayers should not be stuck footing the bill to defend questionable new taxes that never should have been passed in the first place. Instead of constantly searching for another source of revenue, Springfield needs to take a serious look at its spending and start respecting the people who are paying the bills.
