McLean County Times

Earlier this year, a bill making changes to Illinois election law was quickly passed through the legislature and signed into law within about 48 hours. The bill made it more difficult for candidates to access the ballot. Several challengers who had already complied with the existing law learned that they could no longer run due to the sudden change. A court challenge ensued, and a judge in Sangamon County found the change unconstitutional as it occurred during the middle of the process. On Friday, the state Supreme Court upheld this ruling.

House Republicans protested by walking off the House floor when this bill was pushed through. "We have seen too many examples of major pieces of legislation being passed with little to no transparency," Rep. Bunting said. "This was just the latest example. I am glad that the courts ruled the way they did."

Rep. Bunting expressed hope that this ruling would lead to increased transparency in legislative processes but remained skeptical about immediate changes: "It would be nice if this ruling would cause the Democrats who run Springfield to stop playing political games with legislation and start allowing more transparency into the process. But I am not holding my breath awaiting that outcome."

Recently, Rep. Bunting was recognized by the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) for maintaining a 100% voting record in support of small businesses. NFIB reviewed eight key votes in the General Assembly over two years on issues affecting small businesses.

"Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and communities," Rep. Bunting stated.

NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley commented on current business conditions: "The cost of doing business is skyrocketing and small business owners are being overwhelmed with bureaucratic red tape." He emphasized that lawmakers must collaborate to ensure successful operation and growth for Illinois business owners.

On Tuesday, despite hot weather, Rep. Bunting had a busy day around his district, starting with attending Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation District's Summer Farm Tour, followed by participating in Fairbury’s Intergenerational Center Boys & Girls Club groundbreaking ceremony.

Regarding financial matters, Illinois currently has $1,784,287,294 in unpaid bills submitted to its Comptroller for payment—a figure subject to daily changes.