Two months into the spring legislative session, State Representative Bill Hauter (R-Morton) joined House Republican lawmakers for a press conference in the Capitol to express frustration over Democrats’ misplaced priorities. As the legislative process proceeds, several bills have surfaced that according to the Republican lawmakers, do nothing to solve some of the state’s biggest challenges—including the massive $737 million state budget shortfall for FY26.
“Instead of focusing on state finances, or any number of the serious challenges our state faces, we see the true priorities of the Democrats in Illinois,” Hauter said.
Hauter was joined by Assistant Minority Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) and State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro (R-Hanover Park) to discuss the legislation from their Democratic colleagues which shines a light on the poor public policy taking root in the statehouse.
A number of the bills referenced by Republican lawmakers today include: House Bill 2706 which would further restrict local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities, House Bill 3780 which would provide universal health care for all individuals residing in Illinois, regardless of immigration status, SJRCA 4 which would create a progressive income tax hike, even though it was decisively struck down by voters in 2020, and House Bill 2569 which would provide for skunk and raccoon rehabilitation.
The unfortunate trend of Democrats’ bad bills is not limited to this year; just last year the Illinois House voted on legislation for petting a bear, whether a dog can sit on your lap while driving, and if residents can own exotic cats and kangaroos.
House Republican lawmakers remain steadfast in their work to make Illinois a better state, paving a path forward where future generations will thrive—which means prioritizing legislation that will improve the lives of Illinois families.