Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema released a summary on Mar. 30 outlining recent legislative activity and community events from the past week at the Capitol. The update covers topics including public safety concerns, small business legislation, agriculture advocacy, Alzheimer’s awareness efforts, and changes to state park access.
Balkema’s message comes amid ongoing discussions about public safety following several tragic deaths in Illinois. He said that the loss of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman in Chicago is “a heartbreaking reminder that public safety must always come first.” He added his thoughts are with her family and referenced other families affected by similar tragedies over the past year.
Balkema said these incidents raise questions about whether current laws like the expanded TRUST Act are protecting Illinois families effectively. “I believe our communities deserve policies that keep people safe and hold dangerous individuals accountable,” he said. He voiced support for Senate Bill 1316 to repeal the TRUST Act and restore cooperation between local and federal authorities in cases involving serious criminal offenses.
The senator also announced his co-sponsorship of a legislative package aimed at supporting small businesses, providing relief to workers, and improving economic competitiveness in Illinois. Measures include tax credits for businesses headquartered in Illinois (Senate Bill 3786), eliminating income tax on tipped wages (Senate Bill 3792), increasing retailer discounts for small businesses (Senate Bill 137), and allowing deductions for health insurance premiums (Senate Bill 2763).
In addition to legislative initiatives, Balkema highlighted community events such as Agriculture Legislative Day at the Capitol attended by farmers and FFA members. He noted that Illinois remains a leading producer of soybeans, corn, swine, and agricultural exports according to the Department of Agriculture.
Other updates included information on upcoming trout season regulations from April 4; Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day activities where lawmakers wore purple; University of Illinois Extension projects supporting rural revitalization; new IRS migration data showing continued outflow of residents from Illinois; grant opportunities through DCEO programs; Opportunity Zone nomination forms now open; and temporary trail closures at Starved Rock State Park due to improvement projects.
Balkema was elected as a Republican to represent Illinois’ 53rd Senate District in 2025 after succeeding Thomas M. Bennett according to Ballotpedia.
The senator concluded his update by encouraging constituents to reach out with questions or concerns.
