McLean County Times

Illinois State Representative Jason Bunting has provided an update on several issues affecting Illinois residents, including rising electric bills, a new college admissions program, and ongoing concerns about state pension liabilities.

Bunting addressed the increase in electricity costs across Illinois, noting that some residents have seen their bills double this summer. He explained that the closure of many coal-burning power plants in Illinois has forced utility companies to purchase electricity from out-of-state sources. The price for this electricity is determined by regional transmission organizations such as the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). This summer, MISO set a price of $667 per megawatt-day for all zones, compared to $30 last year.

“I joined with other House and Senate Republicans in warning about this summer energy cost crisis. We asked for a review of Illinois’ current energy policy and offered solutions to prevent price spikes like the ones we are now seeing. Unfortunately, the majority chose not to take us up on our ideas,” Bunting said.

House Republicans have proposed changes to the state’s 2021 Clean Energy and Jobs Act (CEJA), which they say contributed to higher prices by leading to plant closures. Bunting stated that he plans to revisit these laws when the legislature returns in October.

On education, Bunting highlighted a new initiative called One Click College Admit. This program allows Illinois high school seniors and community college transfer students automatic admission offers from public colleges and universities based solely on grade point average (GPA). Students do not need to submit applications, pay fees, write essays or provide letters of recommendation. To participate, students create a Common App account and enter basic information along with their GPA.

Bunting also discussed a recent report from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) regarding unfunded pension liabilities. According to CGFA’s findings, Illinois’ five state pension systems collectively have nearly $144.3 billion in unfunded liabilities and a funded ratio of just 45.8%. Bunting noted that various calculations exist but all agree the liability exceeds $100 billion.

In addition, Bunting reported that as of now, unpaid bills submitted to the Illinois Comptroller total more than $1.68 billion—similar to last year’s backlog at this time—but this figure does not include long-term debts such as pensions.

Bunting was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 106th House District in 2023 after replacing Thomas Bennett.

Other statewide news items included actions taken by Governor Pritzker related to trial lawyers and job creators; an audit involving the Department of Human Services; an appeal by Senate President over campaign contribution fines; and arrests made by State Police during a human trafficking operation.