McLean County Times

As FY24 Nears End, Revenues Fall Short of Last Year’s Numbers

The May 2024 report from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) indicated a significant decline in the State’s monthly cash flow. When comparing May 2024 general funds revenues with those from May 2023, the May 2024 cash flow numbers fell short by $213 million. These figures reflect the tax payments and federal funds payments essential for covering the State’s day-to-day expenses.

The $53.1 billion budget recently signed into law by Governor Pritzker contains optimistic assumptions about tax payments and cash flows to Illinois in FY25. These projections include positive forecasts for personal income tax revenues, despite current numbers suggesting that caution is warranted.

The Dark Side of the Sham Grocery Tax “Elimination”

Bill eliminating IL’s grocery tax gives local government more taxing authority | Illinois | thecentersquare.com

Families need real tax relief. To make the grocery tax elimination work, necessary cuts at the state level must be made to reimburse local governments already struggling to fund vital services such as fire and police departments, water supply, and infrastructure improvements. This was not addressed in this year’s budget but will be pursued again next spring.

Supporting Meals on Wheels

Seniors and those in need in Illinois achieved a significant victory with last month’s passage of Senate Bill 3476. This legislation creates a sales tax exemption for home-delivered meals, such as those provided by Meals on Wheels when payment is made through an intermediary as part of a Medicare or Medicaid program.

The bill assists providers like Meals on Wheels in offering nutritious meals to seniors and others at lower costs. Senate Bill 3476 passed both chambers unanimously.

Meals on Wheels serves over two million seniors annually across various communities nationwide through its network of over 5,000 independently run programs. Volunteers are always needed; information on finding your nearest provider or how to volunteer can be found at Meals on Wheels America.

Bowhay Institute Fellowship

It’s an honor to participate in a second Midwest leadership program.

Congratulations Jessica!

Congratulations to Miss Illinois 2023, Jessica Tilton from Washington, IL, as she concludes her reign this week! Jessica has been an outstanding ambassador for the Miss Illinois organization and our communities here in the 105th District.

I was also proud to have her participate in our Emerging Women Leaders conference at the Capitol this spring. She will continue to achieve great things!

Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day Sunday to all dads and grandpas in the district! If you’re an angler, you can celebrate this weekend by fishing for free during Illinois Free Fishing Days taking place in June – NBC Chicago