Illinois State Representative Jason Bunting announced on May 22 a series of legislative priorities, including proposals to make life more affordable for Illinois residents and to restore local control over certain government decisions.
Bunting said the cost of living remains high for many Illinoisans, pointing to what he described as a poor business climate, overregulation, and high taxes. He urged lawmakers to consider suspending the state sales tax on gasoline temporarily and allowing workers to deduct tips from their state income tax. “Both of these are very popular ideas which would help everyday Illinoisans. It would not be difficult to pass legislation providing this relief and helping people. The revenue implications for the state would be minor, but the help provided to individual Illinoisans would be significant. The legislature should take this action before we adjourn,” Bunting said.
The representative also highlighted his sponsorship of House Bill 1201, which aims to return more decision-making power about energy projects back to local governments rather than centralized state agencies. “As much as possible, decisions should be made by our neighbors, not some far-off bureaucracy trying to impose one-size-fits-all statewide solutions on everyone while ignoring the voices of those most directly affected,” Bunting said.
In discussing the state’s finances, Bunting cited a recent report from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) that revised revenue estimates downward by $190 million for the upcoming fiscal year and found that current year revenues will fall short by about $75 million. He noted that Governor Pritzker’s proposed budget may now face a deficit between $500 million and $900 million even before considering proposed tax increases.
Bunting also reflected on recent meetings with community groups in Springfield—including organizations such as ABATE, Joliet Junior College, Heartland Community College, Clove Alliance, Black Farmers & Growers—and expressed gratitude for their engagement: “Thank you all for welcoming me, sharing your stories, and discussing the issues that matter most to our community. Your dedication, passion, and insights remind me why this work is so meaningful.”
He concluded with remarks honoring Memorial Day: “This weekend we will pause to honor all those who have laid down their lives for our country… Thank you to all who serve.”
Bunting was elected in 2023 as a Republican representative of Illinois’ 106th House District after replacing Thomas Bennett; he previously served as a county board member and highway commissioner according to Ballotpedia.
