McLean County Times

State Representative Jason Bunting (R-Dwight) has provided an update on several key issues affecting Illinois, including the ongoing impact of the “SAFE-T Act,” changes in unemployment rates, and local community developments.

Reflecting on the two-year anniversary of the “SAFE-T Act,” Bunting criticized its implementation. "It was opposed by virtually every police and prosecutors’ group in the state, who raised a tremendous number of concerns about it – mostly centering on the argument that if enacted, the law would make the state less safe," he stated. He added, "They were right, but they were also ignored." According to Bunting, there have been cases where individuals released under this law committed further crimes. He said House Republicans have introduced legislation aimed at tightening pre-trial release rules and expanding detainable offenses. "These are just a few of the many ideas which House Republicans have proposed for improving public safety in Illinois. So far, these and other good ideas have been ignored by the Democrats who run Springfield. We need to act on improving public safety in the upcoming session of the General Assembly," he noted.

On economic matters, Bunting reported that Illinois' unemployment rate dropped to 4.4% in August—the lowest level in over a year—according to figures from the Illinois Department of Employment Security. However, non-farm payrolls decreased by 13,300 jobs during that month. Some sectors saw growth—including Information (+800), Manufacturing (+400), and Construction (+300)—while others experienced declines such as Trade, Transportation and Utility (-4,500), Private Education and Health Services (-4,000), and Professional and Business Services (-2,600).

Bunting described meetings with three advisory committees composed of local residents who offer feedback on issues facing their communities. Discussions included challenges faced by school districts like declining enrollment and rising health insurance costs; concerns from local government leaders regarding funding for infrastructure projects through programs like Safe Routes to School; battery storage trends related to solar energy; effects from removal of grocery tax funding; as well as business development prospects in their region.

He also met with economic development directors about strategies for job retention and expansion within his district. One priority identified was increasing housing options for new workers.

In financial matters, Bunting noted that unpaid bills submitted to the Illinois Comptroller currently total approximately $1.63 billion—a figure higher than last year's $1.4 billion backlog at this time—not including unfunded liabilities such as pension obligations exceeding $100 billion.

Bunting is a Republican elected in 2023 to represent Illinois' 106th House District after replacing Thomas Bennett.

Other statewide topics highlighted include proposals from House Republicans to cut taxes on tips and overtime pay; recent challenges faced by Governor Pritzker; Farm Safety Week stories; and information about archery deer season beginning October 1.