Illinois State Sen. Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac)
Recent News About Illinois State Sen. Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac)
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Senator Chris Balkema discusses veterans day tribute and legislative updates
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac) addressed several topics in his latest weekly update, including Veterans Day, daylight saving time, youth engagement, recent legislative actions during the veto session, property tax relief for...
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Youth Advisory Council brings together over 60 high school students in Pontiac
More than 60 students from 11 high schools gathered in Pontiac for a Youth Advisory Council event organized by Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema.
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Balkema reports on veto session outcomes including energy rates hike concerns
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac) provided updates following the conclusion of the General Assembly’s Veto Session, which included debates on several controversial bills.
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Senator Balkema criticizes new anti-ICE legislation passed by Illinois lawmakers
State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has expressed concern over the passage of House Bill 1312, legislation he describes as "anti-ICE," by the Illinois General Assembly.
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Community blood drive organized by Sen. Chris Balkema set for Nov. 12 in Dwight
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema has announced a community blood drive scheduled for November 12, in partnership with Representative Jason Bunting and ImpactLife.
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Illinois Sen. Chris Balkema opposes proposed tax hikes for Chicago transit bailout
At the Illinois Capitol, discussions continued late into the evening as lawmakers debated new tax proposals.
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Senator Chris Balkema raises concerns over proposed tax increases impacting working families
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema has provided updates on several key issues affecting residents of the 53rd District in his latest weekly newsletter.
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Senator Balkema sponsors resolution honoring farmers; addresses budget deficit and ethics reform
Senator Chris Balkema has introduced Senate Resolution 124, which was approved by the Illinois Senate this week.
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Senator Balkema sponsors resolution honoring Illinois farmers during harvest season
Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has sponsored Senate Resolution 124, which was approved by the Illinois Senate this week.
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Balkema highlights veto session priorities and support for nuclear power expansion
Legislators are preparing to return to Springfield for the Illinois fall Veto Session, scheduled for October 14–16 and October 29–30.
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Senator Balkema discusses state spending surge and infrastructure plans for Illinois’ 53rd District
State Senator Chris Balkema of Illinois' 53rd District has released his latest weekly update, highlighting state spending, infrastructure investments, and seasonal topics relevant to his constituents.
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Senator Balkema announces over $1 billion for transportation upgrades in Illinois' 53rd District
Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has announced that the 53rd Senate District will receive more than $1 billion in transportation investments as part of Illinois’ proposed $50.6 billion multi-year construction plan. “This plan represents a major...
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Senator Balkema discusses budget cuts, education plans, NASA selection
Governor JB Pritzker has issued an executive order requiring state agencies to set aside up to 4% of their Fiscal Year 2026 budgets, limit non-essential spending, review hiring practices, and prepare reserves.
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Senator Balkema meets with 54 state agencies to review transparency and efficiency
Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) has held meetings with leaders from 54 state agencies since taking office, as part of an initiative to improve transparency and efficiency in Illinois government.
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Illinois State Sen. Chris Balkema addresses harvest safety, tax amnesty program
Friends, family, and supporters gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on September 21 to honor the life of Charlie Kirk.
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Veterans Day display seeks stories for Illinois Capitol tribute
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema has announced a call for submissions to the “Honoring All Who Served” Veterans Day Display at the Illinois State Capitol Rotunda.
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Balkema addresses violence against political figures; updates on immigration enforcement and community programs
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was killed during an attack at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
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Illinois Sen. Chris Balkema’s staff schedules office hours in Eureka
Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema's district staff will be available in Eureka on Wednesday, September 17, to meet with community members.
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Illinois Department of Transportation opens applications for fall harvest permits
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has begun accepting applications for Illinois Harvest Permits (IHPs), which are available at no cost to farmers and agricultural haulers.
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Illinois opens applications for $6 million small equipment grants for emergency services
The Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has opened the application period for its Small Equipment Grant Program.