Illinois Legislative News: January 27, 2025
Third Reading Consulting Group
The inauguration of the new Illinois General Assembly on January 8 marked the official start of the 104th General Assembly, setting the stage for a busy year ahead. As lawmakers prepare to dive into the legislative session, discussions are intensifying around key challenges facing the state, particularly regarding budgetary concerns and federal impacts.
Governor Pritzker has recently voiced concerns about potential repercussions from the new federal administration. While Illinois has not yet received official confirmation of any federal funding cuts, Pritzker expressed particular worry about reductions to healthcare funding, given Illinois’ reliance on federal dollars for its Medicaid program. Additionally, he addressed the future of the $2 billion federal grant for the Red Line Extension project, which was awarded under the previous administration but may be at risk due to the Trump administration’s stance on infrastructure funding. Another pressing issue is the potential deficit in funding for Illinois’ electric vehicle (EV) initiatives, a cornerstone of the state’s clean energy goals. The state’s EV infrastructure could face further setbacks if federal support for Biden’s $7.5 billion EV charger program is curtailed.
These challenges, combined with the state’s budget deficit, could complicate Illinois’ ability to maintain essential services and advance critical infrastructure projects. As the year progresses, the focus will likely remain on fiscal responsibility and efforts to bridge divides across the aisle to address Illinois’ financial hurdles.
Important Upcoming Dates – Statewide
February 7 – Bill Introduction Deadline
February 19 – Governor’s State of the State and Budget Address
March 21 – Initial Chamber Committee Deadline
April 11 – Initial Chamber Third Reading Deadline
May 9 – Opposite Chamber Committee Deadline
May 23 – Opposite Chamber Third Reading Deadline
May 31 – Adjournment