Third Reading Consulting Group
Last week was relatively quiet, with the House off from session. However, the Senate convened, where they moved a variety of bills from second to third reading, and considered legislation that received a committee deadline extension.
The Senate Transportation Committee held a subject matter hearing on the impending $771 million “transit fiscal cliff” in 2026. Chair Ram Villivalam reaffirmed that no additional state funding would be coming without meaningful reforms, asking transit officials to submit a centralized governance structure. Senators also asked for a definitive safety plan and operational improvements, with Sen. Celina Villanueva requesting accountability rather than executive bonuses and inflated salaries. CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen hailed a new “Frequent Network” to increase bus wait times, but legislators emphasized that much-needed work lies before any funding decisions are made. Legislators need a plan to address the transit fiscal cliff as a part of their FY 2026 budget process before the end of May. Transit agency reforms could be pushed to veto session in the fall before the funding deficit begins on January 1, 2026. The State of Illinois, City of Chicago, Cook County, and the Collar Counties will likely split the cost of closing the deficit. In FY 2026, the cost is only around $385 million (half of the $771 million full-year deficit). However, without significant agency reform, the deficit would increase to the full $771 million in FY 2027.
Democrats dominated Illinois’ consolidated elections on Tuesday, April 1, winning an estimated 75% of the 270 contested races. They performed especially well in suburban counties such as DuPage County, where they achieved historic gains. One of the most prominent races was the race for Mayor of Aurora, a technically non-partisan election, where Democrat-backed John Laesch defeated incumbent Mayor and former Republican candidate for Illinois Governor, Richard Irvin. Democratic victories in Quincy, Rock Island, and Springfield’s Capital Township were the other significant victories. Republicans also had some significant victories, most notably Tinley Park Mayor Mike Glotz defeating a Democratic-backed opponent and former GOP state Rep. Dan Brady winning the mayorship of Bloomington.
Both the House and Senate will return to Springfield this week ahead of the April 11 third reading deadline.
Important Upcoming Dates – Statewide
April 11 – Initial Chamber Third Reading Deadline
May 9 – Opposite Chamber Committee Deadline
May 23 – Opposite Chamber Third Reading Deadline
May 31 – Adjournment