McLean County Times

Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema has provided updates on several key issues affecting residents of the 53rd District in his latest weekly newsletter.

Balkema highlighted concerns over a proposed plan by Democrats in Springfield that could result in an additional $1.5 billion tax burden for Illinois families. The plan aims to address the budget shortfall facing Chicago’s transit system, which is attributed to what Balkema described as "long-term financial mismanagement" by city officials.

The proposal includes measures such as a $1 delivery tax on orders over $100, service taxes on everyday needs like haircuts and childcare, a $1 toll surcharge for commuters, a 10% rideshare tax, increased real estate transfer taxes, new vehicle taxes, payroll (head) taxes for employers in Chicago, more speed cameras leading to fines, and higher Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) sales taxes impacting suburban families.

"My peers and I warn that these taxes would hit suburban and downstate families hardest, forcing them to subsidize Mayor Brandon Johnson’s financial mismanagement. For many downstate families who never ride Chicago’s buses or trains, this plan means paying more for a service they may never use. Illinois families are already paying more for utilities, daily necessities, and property taxes, and they cannot afford another round of tax hikes," Balkema stated.

He added: "Every extra dollar matters for working parents trying to put food on the table and keep the lights on. The last thing Illinois families need is another tax making life harder. I am driving a cost reduction and efficiency improvement strategy that will reduce taxes for Illinois families."

In recognition of Manufacturing Month in October, Balkema reflected on his experience at Caterpillar prior to joining the Senate. He emphasized the significance of manufacturing in Illinois’ economy: "According to the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA), Illinois manufacturers directly employ more than 662,000 men and women and contribute $580 billion in annual economic impact." He also noted ongoing efforts by organizations such as IMA and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center to promote local industry through initiatives like the “Makers on the Move” bus tour.

Additionally, Balkema shared information about the tenth annual College Changes Everything (CCE) Campaign launched by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). The campaign works with schools and community groups across Illinois to help students explore post-secondary education options. ISAC provides free workshops on college admissions and financial aid applications throughout this period.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has also opened its Ambassador Program to encourage greater public engagement with its educational offerings. Interested individuals can contact ALPLM’s Guest Experience Team or visit their website for further details: https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/support/become-an-ambassador/

Balkema was elected as a Republican state senator representing Illinois’ 53rd Senate District in 2025 after succeeding Thomas M. Bennett.