McLean County Times

A recent legislative update from Representative Bunting highlighted several key issues and events from Springfield. One significant development involves the passage of House Bill 1226. This bill aims to adjust the age at which senior drivers are required to take a driving test to renew their licenses. If enacted, seniors would only need a driving test starting at age 87, instead of 79 as per the current requirement. The bill successfully passed the House with unanimous support and will now be considered by the Senate. It also includes a provision allowing immediate family members to report medical concerns to the Secretary of State if a medical condition affects a senior's driving ability.

Another legislative matter is the Homeschool bill, House Bill 2827, which did not progress to the Senate by the recent deadline. Representative Bunting expressed opposition to the bill, which he described as imposing "intrusive and heavy-handed mandates" on homeschooling families. The bill's sponsor did not call it for a vote, noting that misinformation contributed to its lack of support. Although relieved, Representative Bunting urges continued vigilance from opponents of the bill.

The legislative session was marked by activity as the bill passage deadline approached, attracting many visitors to the Capitol. Visitors included Trent Schmid, a junior from Cissna Park High School who served as a House Page, and multiple FFA chapters participating in Ag Day, celebrating the role of agriculture in Illinois.

Additionally, there was a recent visit to Janie's Mill in Ashkum, where Harold and Sandy Wilken have been producing high-quality stone-ground flour since 2017. Their business saw significant growth during the pandemic.

The state's bill backlog currently stands at over $2.3 billion, a substantial increase from last year's $1.7 billion. This figure only accounts for payments awaiting processing by the Illinois Comptroller and does not consider other liabilities like pension debt.

In other news, Illinois faces new challenges with Chronic Wasting Disease detected in additional counties, preparations for Route 66's centennial in 2026, and warnings from federal agencies about damage from invasive pests. The state also celebrated a water pump being named the 'Coolest Thing Made in Illinois,' and noted a highway accident involving an ISP squad car.