McLean County Times

Illinois Representative Bunting expressed disappointment over the expiration of the Invest in Kids tax credit scholarship program. Despite sponsoring bills to extend and make the program permanent, the Democrats in control of the General Assembly refused to give a fair hearing to these proposals. Bunting lamented the lack of action and the negative impact it will have on the thousands of students who will now lose their scholarships.

Bunting also highlighted the efforts of passionate advocates who came to the Capitol during the veto session to support the extension of the scholarship program. These advocates made their positions loud and clear, but their pleas fell on deaf ears. Speaker Welch refused to listen to their concerns, leading to the expiration of the program. Bunting called this outcome "nothing short of shameful" and expressed hope for finding alternative ways to support these deserving students in the future.

Amidst the disappointment, there were a few positive developments during the fall session. One of them was the passage of Senate Bill 765, which addressed the limited availability of reinsurance for farm mutual insurance policyholders. Bunting explained that recent changes in the reinsurance market had reduced the options for obtaining unlimited coverage, posing a challenge for Illinois Farm Mutual companies. The legislation passed with unanimous support and aims to maintain adequate catastrophic reinsurance for the next five years.

In a lighter note, Bunting extended heartfelt Thanksgiving wishes to readers, emphasizing the importance of gratitude for friends, family, and the community. Bunting also expressed appreciation for the hard work of those who protect the values and freedoms we hold dear.

The article also provided an update on the state's bill backlog, which currently stands at $1,884,363,200. This figure represents unpaid bills submitted to the Illinois Comptroller for payment. Bunting clarified that this does not include unfunded debts like the state's pension liability, which exceeds $100 billion.

In the Illinois headlines section, Secretary of State Jesse White urged military veterans to share their stories, recognizing their contributions and sacrifices. Lawmakers passed a bill aimed at modernizing professional licensing in the state, streamlining the process and promoting economic growth. Midwest farmers sought to establish connections through world trade missions, highlighting the importance of international trade for the agricultural sector. Gibson City embraced the holiday spirit with the early installation of a downtown tree, spreading joy and cheer. Lastly, the Illinois Deer Donation Program announced its expansion for the 2023 season, providing more opportunities for hunters to donate venison to those in need.

Overall, the article highlighted the disappointment over the Invest in Kids program's expiration, the positive steps taken to support farm mutual insurance policyholders, and the importance of gratitude during the Thanksgiving season. It also provided updates on the state's bill backlog and shared recent Illinois headlines.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://repbunting.com/2023/11/17/rep-buntings-springfield-news-update-for-november-17/