Rock Island Today

The fall veto session in Illinois has come to an end, leaving many major issues unresolved. Despite the pressing matters facing the state government, little action was taken during the session. Representative Dan Swanson expressed his disappointment, stating, "We will have many unresolved issues to address when we return to Springfield in January."

One of the key issues that saw no progress during the session was ethics reform. This comes after a series of corruption scandals involving lobbyists and utility executives tied to the former Speaker of the Illinois House. Swanson highlighted the need for reform, saying, "Yet once again, the General Assembly refused to pass any ethics reform."

Another issue left unaddressed was estate tax reform. Illinois farmers and small businesses have been burdened by high estate taxes, forcing survivors to sell when there is a death in the family. Republicans introduced legislation to reform the system, but it was not considered during the session.

The Invest in Kids scholarship program, which provides tax credits to those who donate money for scholarships, is also set to sunset at the end of the year unless it is extended. Republicans filed legislation to extend the program, but it was not brought up for a vote.

Furthermore, Swanson's bill to end Illinois' status as a sanctuary state and address the humanitarian crisis in Chicago was also not allowed to be voted on in the House.

In a positive development, the controversial CO2 pipeline project, known as Heartland Greenway, has been halted. Navigator CO2 withdrew its application to build part of the pipeline through Illinois. Swanson expressed his opposition to the pipeline, citing concerns about eminent domain and safety. He also mentioned the upcoming federal guidelines expected next year and vowed to keep an eye on the issue.

In another legal matter, a federal appeals court in Chicago refused to stop the implementation of Illinois' gun ban law. Opponents of the legislation, including the Illinois State Rifle Association and the National Foundation for Gun Rights, have stated that they will appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Swanson, who voted against the legislation, raised concerns about the infringement on the rights of law-abiding gun owners. The Supreme Court has yet to determine when the case will be heard.

Lastly, Swanson took the opportunity to express gratitude to veterans as Veterans Day approached. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by men and women who have defended the country's freedoms and liberties, stating, "Thank you to all those who have served and to those who are currently far from home keeping us safe."

With the veto session over, Illinois will face many unresolved issues in the coming months. The lack of action on key matters such as ethics reform, estate tax reform, and the Invest in Kids scholarship program will require attention when the General Assembly reconvenes in January.

Click this link to access more information: https://repswanson.com/2023/11/09/representative-dan-swansons-november-10-capitol-news-update/