McLean County Times

Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac) addressed several topics in his latest weekly update, including Veterans Day, daylight saving time, youth engagement, recent legislative actions during the veto session, property tax relief for seniors, and an upcoming community blood drive.

Balkema began by recognizing Veterans Day: "This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten. To all who have worn the uniform and to the families who have supported them, thank you for your service."

On daylight saving time, Balkema noted that a recent survey showed 72% of respondents support eliminating clock changes in Illinois. He explained that states are allowed under federal law to remain on standard time year-round without federal approval; Arizona and Hawaii already do so. However, staying on daylight saving time all year is not currently permitted by federal law.

The senator also highlighted his Youth Advisory Council event in Pontiac with more than 60 students from 11 high schools participating. "These young leaders are the future of our state and our nation. Today, they rolled up their sleeves and got to work — discussing issues they care deeply about and drafting potential bills they could see become law," Balkema said. "Watching them collaborate, share ideas, and build connections with peers they just met this morning gives me tremendous hope for the future." He encouraged constituents to watch a highlight video of the event.

Balkema criticized how the recent fall veto session was conducted in Springfield. According to him: "The fall Veto Session has come to an end in Springfield, but instead of using the time to address the handful of bills vetoed by the Governor, the Democrat supermajority turned the session into an opportunity to push through more of their political agenda, resulting in families having to pay more." He added that out of 436 bills sent to the governor during spring session, only four were vetoed or amended but other controversial proposals were advanced during this period.

He specifically mentioned measures such as a public transit bailout for Chicago that he said was rushed through with little review; a tax plan known as “decoupling” which he argued would raise taxes on businesses; and an $8 billion energy rate hike. "Using veto session to push through major policy changes in the middle of the night, with little public input or debate, is irresponsible and dangerous," Balkema stated.

On property taxes for seniors—a topic relevant given Illinois' high overall tax burden—Balkema reported supporting Senate Bill 642. The bill raises income limits for eligibility under the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption over several years: increasing it from $75,000 in 2026 up to $79,000 by 2028. The legislation aims to help more seniors qualify for property tax relief so they can remain in their homes. It passed unanimously in the Senate and awaits further action from the governor.

Finally, Balkema invited residents to participate in a community blood drive alongside Representative Jason Bunting and ImpactLife on November 12 at his Dwight District Office.

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