Rock Island Today

Representative Dan Swanson has provided an update on recent legislative activities and upcoming events in his May 31 Capitol News Update.

Swanson expressed his opposition to a new taxing and spending proposal presented to the House early Wednesday morning. "I voted No on a taxing and spending proposal which was brought before the House in the wee hours of Wednesday morning," he stated. The Fiscal Year 2025 state budget, introduced by Democrats, increases spending by $2.6 billion compared to last year and raises taxes by $1 billion. The budget includes funding for a cost-of-living pay increase for legislators and allocates nearly four times more funding for non-citizens than for services to Illinois veterans.

House Republicans advocated for tax relief, restrained spending, combating waste and mismanagement, stronger ethics laws, and improved public safety but were excluded from budget discussions. Swanson criticized the process: "Democrats, in an extremely rare course of action, held three votes and waived the House rules in order to force a tax increase on the people of Illinois."

Swanson also addressed concerns about HB 793, a bill that threatens jobs for developmentally disabled workers by mandating wage increases without providing financial assistance to employers. He highlighted the potential negative impact on local businesses that employ these individuals at below-minimum wages under a federal program established during Franklin Roosevelt's administration. "Concerned parents have asked me, 'what am I going to do when I no longer have somewhere to bring my son or daughter because they no longer have a job?'" Swanson shared.

In community news, Swanson announced a free Veteran/Senior Fair scheduled for June 12 in Galesburg at the Knights of Columbus Hall. The event will feature health screenings, information about programs and services for veterans and seniors, electronics recycling, complimentary refreshments, and door prizes.

Reflecting on Memorial Day events in Galesburg and Colona, Swanson praised both communities for their efforts in honoring fallen heroes. "You may not know them by name but remember their ultimate sacrifice and selfless service," he remarked.

Additional updates included record wild turkey harvests by Illinois spring hunters, the State Treasurer seeking additional help with Operation Purple Heart, the Department of Human Services accepting applications for the Governor’s Hometown Awards, and inquiries about cicada presence in Illinois.