Welcome to my e-newsletter!
As your State Representative, I want to provide you with updates about what is going on in Springfield and around the 88th.
In this issue, I discuss the need for affordability, the status of the megaprojects bill to keep the Bears in Illinois, the redistricting constitutional amendment, and how to request a Constituent Education Resource Card from my office to visit Chicagoland museums this summer.
DEERING CALLS FOR GAS SALES TAX HOLIDAY
Everyday people need relief. Relief from crushing taxes and the high cost of living, but under Gov. Pritzker’s regime, Illinoisans continued to be squeezed. In February, the Governor proposed raising the state’s budget by $1 billion. Where does he think folks have money to spare to pay for yet another bloated budget that doesn’t offer any relief for hardworking Illinoisans? I can tell you the working people of Illinois can’t afford it.
That’s why I have backed HB 5738, a measure to provide a six-month gas sales tax holiday.
DEMOCRATS’ HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO REDISTRICT ILLINOIS HALTED
The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v. Callais is a reminder that redistricting must follow the Constitution and treat every voter fairly. As we saw last week, House Democrats attempted to strengthen their grip on partisan power with HJRCA 28.
This proposed amendment, while pitched to protect democracy, worked to secure partisan political power. Voters deserve free and fair elections. Elections where representatives are chosen by the people, not politicians choosing their voters.
What is clear is that fairness in elections and mapmaking is non-negotiable. As a legislature, we need to work together to establish fair maps, not to secure political power. The people of Illinois are counting on us to do the right thing and that certainly isn’t pushing for further disenfranchisement of Illinois voters.
OP-ED: ILLINOIS FAMILIES NEED RELIEF, NOT MORE TAX HIKES
To underscore the need for legislation that provides relief for families, I wrote an op-ed calling on the Illinois legislature to make a choice: more taxes or real relief.
Read my op-ed here.
DEERING DISCUSSES IMPACTS OF MEGAPROJECTS BILL TO KEEP THE BEARS IN ILLINOIS
I sat down with WICS Channel 20 to discuss the megaprojects legislation that passed through the House this week. HB 910 was an easy no vote from me as I honor my commitment to Illinois taxpayers to help lower property taxes. Citizens are tired of helping big corporations at the expense of everyone else.
Keep reading here.
DEERING SPEAKS AT 2026 IGLD RALLY AT THE STATE CAPTIOL
I was honored to join so many gun rights advocates and speak at the 2026 IGOLD Rally that took place at the State Capitol this month. The Second Amendment Rights are constantly under attack. We need to do our part to protect the rights of law-abiding citizens and strike down legislation that seeks to deteriorate those rights.
DEERING QUESTIONS DEMOCRAT BILL SPONSOR, ASKS FOR COMMITMENT TO INCLUDE REPUBLICANS IN ENERGY REFORM (VIDEO)
The Democrat majority party continues to advance unrealistic climate goals that are straining our energy grid and costing customers. Leader Gabel brought forth an amendment to the CRGA passed during November’s veto session.
Watch as I remind her that not a single Republican voted for the measure, and she responds by saying that “it’s possible” she will take our input going forward. The arrogance of the majority party is on full display. They will be to blame when we experience black and brown outs and have ever-increasing utility bills.
THE HOUSE TO CONVENE MAY 5TH, ADJOURN MAY 31ST
The Illinois House of Representatives will be in Session the next four consecutive weeks, rounding out the Spring. During this time, we will attend committee meetings, hear Floor debate, vote on bills, and vote on a budget for Fiscal Year 2027.
To stay in the loop, visit ILGA.gov for video and audio options, as well as up-to-date schedules.
(include photo of May calendar from ILGA).
Your voice matters! For information on how to file a witness slip, visit RepDeering.com for a step-by-step guide.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
My office is participating in a Summer Internship Program, which is a select internship program that will provide high school and college students the opportunity to experience state legislative work.
The program will run from June 1- August 14, with a compensation for new interns of $17.50 an hour. Interns will work out of my office in Decatur.
Those interested should send their resumes to [email protected].
MUSEUM PASS REQUEST FORM
Looking for something fun to do? Families in the 88th District can request an admission pass from my office to visit select Chicago area museums for FREE! The pass covers general admission costs for 4 guests and is reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
To reserve the pass, please fill out the form at RepDeering.com, call my office at (217) 876-1968, or email at [email protected]. Once the request is approved, the constituent will receive a signed letter from Rep. Deering, along with the pass, which both must be presented at the time of admittance to the institution.
SNAPSHOTS
TRINITY LUTHERAN
While in Springfield for Session, I ran into Trinity Lutheran of Bloomington’s 4th grade class, who were visiting the Capitol.
ILLINOIS CORN GROWERS ASSOCIATION
Thank you to the Illinois Corn Growers Association for coming to Springfield. I appreciated our conversations.
MIDWEST CENTER FOR TRAFFIC SAFETY
This month several law enforcement officers who volunteer their time for the Midwest Center for Traffic Safety joined me at the Capitol. The group’s mission is to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries across the region by implementing evidence-based strategies grounded in the Safe System Approach. Learn more at midwesttrafficsafety.org.
ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY
While in Springfield, I ran into a team from Illinois State who were heading to an Appropriations committee to testify.
4H MEMBERS VISIT THE CAPITOL
A great group of 4H members visited me to share their amazing programs and experiences. I am glad to support continued funding.
WOMEN TO WATCH
Local Executive Director Angel Lawrence was chosen to participate in this year’s Women to Watch event. Her work at Northeast Community Fund showcases her leadership in advocating for the Decatur and Macon County community.
SUCCESSFUL SHRED EVENT AND DIAPER DRIVE
Thank you to the Macon County Farm Bureau for partnering with me to host a successful shred event and diaper drive! So many community members were able to utilize the shred service for safe disposal of their confidential documents.
Thank you to everyone who attended and for those who donated diapers and wipes that were collected for area pregnancy resource centers.
SUMMER READING TO BEGIN MAY 15TH
My summer reading program begins next month. Flyers are being distributed to several schools and local libraries across the district. To learn more, visit RepDeering.com.
COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT EVENTS IN THE DISTRICT
Always grateful for the chance to support non-profits who serve our communities in a variety of ways!
KEEP IN TOUCH
Thank you for reading my e-newsletter! To keep in touch, follow me on Facebook and sign-up for email updates from my website.
It is an honor to serve you. I want to keep an open line of communication, so please do not hesitate to reach out.
Talk to you soon!
