McLean County Times

Rep. Bunting has provided an update on recent activities and developments within the 106th district of Illinois. The representative expressed gratitude for the community's generosity in donating food, winter hats, and gloves to those in need.

Bunting met with his Education Advisory Committee to discuss challenges faced by school districts, including staffing issues and transfer limits. He also presented Superintendent Paula Crane of Prairie Central CUSD #8 Upper Elementary with an award for their Exemplary Rating on the School Report Card. Other schools recognized for similar achievements include Coal City Elementary School, Coal City Intermediate School, Cissna Park Junior High School, GCMS High School, and Tri-Point Junior High.

The Energy Advisory Committee convened to discuss projects related to artificial intelligence and legislative ideas concerning the Clean Energy and Jobs Act (CEJA). Companies such as Eastern Illini Electric Co-op, Incobrasa Industries, Nicor Gas, Constellation, Ameren Illinois, Heritage FS, Inc., Enbridge Gas, and CPV Three Rivers participated in these discussions.

Bunting highlighted two new laws effective January 1. One law extends driver's license renewal from four to eight years for those with safe driving records. Another allows day care centers to operate around the clock if parents have non-traditional work hours.

Economic development was a key topic at a meeting with Bunting's Economic Development Advisory Committee. Discussions included new businesses and jobs in the district as well as current projects and grants.

Local government issues were addressed in a separate meeting covering topics like local control of wind and solar energy projects, transportation challenges, child care access under the Safe-T Act, grants, and property tax levies.

The state's current bill backlog stands at $2.3 billion according to Bunting's report. This figure represents bills submitted for payment but does not account for unfunded debts such as pension liabilities exceeding $100 billion.

Bunting extended holiday wishes to constituents while expressing eagerness for another year serving as state representative in Springfield.