Last year after the budget address, we reported Governor Pritzker had proposed the largest budget in the state’s history. This year, he has outdone himself – breaking last year’s record.

During his speech to the Illinois General Assembly today, Governor Pritzker unveiled his priorities and spending plan, setting his total FY26 expenditures at $55.235 billion. The new proposal reflects a $1.994 billion increase in spending over last year, resulting in a 3.7% increase overall. Moreover, the Governor plans to pay for the new spending with yet-to-be-realized revenue, based in part on aggressive projections that have not been confirmed by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA), as well as increased taxes and other gimmicks that will require the legislature’s approval.

Governor Pritzker will deliver the State of the State and budget address to the Illinois General Assembly today at noon in Springfield. Legislators from the House of Representatives and the Senate will join together in the House Chambers to listen to the Governor's speech and learn of his budget priorities. 

In Illinois, the Governor drafts a budget they would like to see implemented but it is up to the members of the General Assembly to appropriate funds based on how they think the state's money should be spent. Throughout the remainder of the legislative session, lawmakers serving on appropriation committees will be conducting public hearings where state agencies will lay out the Governor's budget requests providing lawmakers with an accounting of how funds will be spent over the next fiscal year. After accessing the information from those hearings, budget analyses, and based on their priorities, legislators will ultimately vote on the budget and budget implementation bills sometime at the end of May.

Earlier this month, Rep. Amy Grant delivered a floor speech recognizing an incredible group of women who made history during World War II—the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the Six Triple Eight.

This was the only predominantly Black, all-female battalion of the US Women's Army Corps (WAC) to serve overseas in the Second World War. Their job was a tough one, clear the huge backlog of mail addressed to American service personnel that was piling up in Europe. Army officials reported that the lack of reliable mail delivery was hurting morale.

Presidents Day is a day of recognition set aside for remembering the lineage of elected officials who have boldly led our nation. While Presidents Day is celebrated all across the country and recognizes presidents born in many parts of our nation, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the significant contributions to the United States’ presidential history made by those who hailed from Illinois, aptly known by its State slogan: the “Land of Lincoln.”

Throughout Illinois, 1.5 million family caregivers provide an estimated 1.4 million hours of care annually to their loved ones. This dedication, valued at approximately $18.5 million in unpaid labor, shows the profound commitment these individuals have toward their families and communities.

Caregivers in Illinois encompass individuals of all ages, races, and genders. Approximately 16.5% of Illinois adults serve as caregivers, reflecting the widespread need within our communities. This role often involves managing medical appointments, administering medications, and assisting with daily activities, tasks that require significant time, energy, and emotional resilience.

MADIGAN TRIAL
Ex-Speaker Madigan guilty on 10 counts in landmark federal corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan was found guilty this week in federal court on 10 felony counts that centered on bribery, bribery conspiracy, and wire fraud.

Dating back to ancient Rome, some 4,000 years ago, the month of February has symbolized romance and love. While details on how Valentine’s Day ended up on February 14th differ, traditional gift giving, sending valentine cards, and professing one’s undying love have always remained consistent.