The bad news is that state income tax and sales tax revenues for July and August have fallen by $272 Million over the previous year.  Without an up-tick soon, the already weak state budget could be on life support by winter.

Ronald Reagan Centennial Commission

I am honored to have been one of four legislators appointed to the Ronald Reagan Centennial Commission that will commemorate his 100^th birthday on February 6, 2011.

October Veto Session

The legislature’s fall veto session begins on October 14.  The budget, campaign finance and ethics reform return for further discussion.  Watch for Gov. Quinn to push for a $1 per pack cigarette tax increase, too!  I oppose it!

Video Gambling Support Weak

A recent poll shows 60% of Illinois residents opposing video gambling in their communities.  No word yet on how it plays with Central Illinois local governments that are allowed to opt out of the plan.  Let your local officials know what you think.

Invitation Only Healthcare Forum

Did you notice the healthcare forum sponsored by Peoria’s Methodist Hospital featuring Sen. Dick Durbin?  Unfortunately, neither you nor I were invited.  The private event was reported by local media, but many people would agree that managed “news and views” is bad news – initially for the public, but also for those managing it, too.

Overtime Pay and Pension Benefits

Do those who receive massive overtime pay in the last years of their public sector jobs get massive pension benefit increases, too?  I think this is something the state needs to examine.  There has to be a better way to effectively manage the spending of taxpayer’s dollars.

Will Contractors Be Paid?

The state’s new capital construction plan will keep and put workers on the job, but unless the state pays the construction companies in a more timely manner…look for some to go belly up.  Do you think Illinois should let bids on projects when there’s no guaranteed payment schedule?  And what will happen when the expected gambling revenue doesn’t pan out?

Governor Candidates

Republican running for Governor thus far are:  Adam Andrzejewski, Bill Brady, Kirk Dillard, Frank Edwards, Matt Murphy, Dan Proft and Bob Schillerstrom.  The Democrats are:  Pat Quinn and Dan Hynes.  Watch for one or two more to jump in – and some to drop out.  Who do you think should be our next governor?

Traveling the Local Govt. Circuit

Again this summer and fall I have been meeting with local government officials in my district about their thoughts and concerns.  Most recently I have been to Old Town Township and the Village of Stanford.  Last night I attended the McLean County Township Officials Dinner at the Dry Grove Township Building.

Cornell Elementary/Eureka FFA

I made my 220^th school visit when I spoke to all the students at Cornell Grade School.  Thanks to Karen Jones for the invitation.  Last night I also attended the Eureka FFA fundraiser in Congerville.  Thanks to Andy Knobloch for the heads-up!

El Paso/Morton/Congerville/Timber Ridge

See you at the El Paso Corn Festival and the Morton Pumpkin Festival this week and next.  My family and I will also be attending the Congerville EMT fundraiser and the Apostolic Christian Timber Ridge ice cream social this Saturday.

Your Comments

Your thoughts and comments on topics of the day are always welcome and greatly appreciated.  It’s an honor and a privilege to represent the good people of my district in Springfield.