Last week, I asked whether Illinois should repeal the 2030 closure date for natural gas and coal plants to help keep energy prices affordable. This question came in response to the growing number of Illinoisans shocked by skyrocketing electric bills — driven by supply and demand issues and legislation passed by Democrat lawmakers that forced multiple electricity suppliers to shut down.
The response was overwhelming: 91% said “yes,” supporting a repeal to keep reliable energy sources online and prices down.
Just 9% said “no.”
I’m fighting to protect your wallets by pushing back against costly energy mandates and advocating for policies that keep electricity affordable and dependable for families across Illinois.
Senior citizens invited to senior expo events
I am co-hosting a senior expos filled with free resources, health screenings and helpful services — and you’re encouraged to attend! It is set for 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 6, at the Pontiac Parks & Rec Center in Pontiac. I am sponsoring it along with state Rep. Dennis Tipsword. From I-Cash claiming to veteran support, assisted living info and more — don’t miss out! Come grab some refreshments and connect with more than 30 helpful organizations. View more details here: https://www.senatorchrisbalkema.com/events.
New measure signed into law targeting gun owners
Last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 8 into law — a measure that Senate Republicans say targets responsible gun owners instead of addressing violent crime.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the deadline to report a lost or stolen firearm will be shortened from 72 hours to just 48 hours. Anyone who misses that window could face heavy fines and even lose their Firearm Owner’s Identification card, with repeat violations leading to more severe penalties.
Senate Republicans say this new law punishes people for being the victim of a crime. Many gun owners securely store firearms in safes, cabins, or vehicles that are not checked daily, making a 48-hour rule unrealistic.
I believe this new law is just another one-size-fits-all mandate that turns law-abiding citizens into offenders while failing to crack down on actual criminals. Emergency Management
Awareness Month
August is Emergency Management Awareness Month — a time dedicated to recognizing the important work of emergency managers who help keep communities safe before, during and after disasters. These professionals play a critical role in preparing for emergencies, coordinating disaster responses and supporting recovery efforts.
According to the International Association of Emergency Managers, local and county emergency management teams work to ensure that residents are informed, protected and supported in times of crisis. For more information about emergency management, visit IAEM’s website.
Vehicle miles traveled
(VMT) tax in Illinois?
As transit funding conversations continue, lawmakers have recently entertained the idea of launching a pilot program through the proposed Road Usage Charge Act to explore a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) tax as an alternative to the traditional gas tax. The proposal outlined a 10-member advisory committee and at least 1,000 volunteer participants who would test both GPS and non-GPS mileage tracking. The pilot would aim to evaluate cost, enforcement, public acceptance and the impact on both rural and urban drivers — with participants not paying more than they would under the current gas tax and potentially receiving refunds or incentives. Do you support such a change?
To reach Chris …
If you need assistance with any state government issue, you can call Balkema’s district offices in Dwight at 815-432-0106 or Pontiac at 815-844-9179. The Dwight district office is at 132 E. Main St., while the Pontiac district office is at 305 W. Madison St. For more information, visit Balkema’s website, senatorchrisbalkema.com.