Dear friend,
I hope you’re doing well! While the legislature wasn’t in session the past two weeks, I stayed busy in the district attending meetings, visiting local events, hosting my Youth Advisory Council, and speaking with constituents about the issues that matter most. Now, session is back in full swing as we head into the final stretch.
This week, Mayor Brandon Johnson is back in Springfield asking for more state funding. As families in the suburbs work harder than ever just to make ends meet, I’m fighting to protect them from being forced to foot the bill for his demands. Meanwhile, with about a month left in session, the Senate is working through House bills and preparing for final budget negotiations. I’ll keep pushing for fiscal responsibility that puts Illinois families first.
As always, my district office is here to serve you. Stop by at 795 Ela Rd, Suite 208 in Lake Zurich or call (224) 662-4544 — we’d love to hear from you!
Local Students Explore Government in Action at Senator Darby Hills’ Youth Advisory Council Event
Local high school students took an active role in government and civic engagement last week during Senator Hills’ Youth Advisory Council at the Lake County Courthouse.
Students gained a behind-the-scenes look at state and local government by participating in discussions with judges, law enforcement, and community leaders, as well as activities like a mock committee hearing and observing Drug Court proceedings. The event fostered thoughtful conversations, encouraged collaboration among students from across the region, and highlighted how young people can influence positive change in their communities.
The Youth Advisory Council is part of Senator Hills’ ongoing efforts to promote leadership, public service, and active citizenship among the next generation. You can read more here.
Illinois Senators Return to Springfield as the Final Weeks of Session Begin
After a two-week spring break, Illinois Senators are back in Springfield this week to begin reviewing and debating legislation recently passed by the House. With session scheduled each week through the end of May, lawmakers are now entering the final stretch of the spring legislative calendar.
Before the General Assembly adjourns on May 31, lawmakers must consider bills that have advanced from the opposite chamber. As in previous years, the most significant task will be the passage of the state’s next Fiscal Year budget.
In February, Governor Pritzker proposed the largest budget in state history, spending more than $53 billion, despite a projected deficit. I am focused on a responsible budget that puts hardworking Illinois families ahead of expensive new programs.
Mayor Brandon Johnson Returns to Springfield to Request Additional State Funding for Chicago
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is traveling to Springfield again this week to advocate for increased state funding for the city. His visit comes as concerns grow among many lawmakers about how additional state dollars would be used, particularly given Chicago’s ongoing financial challenges.
At a news conference last week, Johnson outlined his plans to meet with Governor Pritzker, House Speaker Chris Welch, and Senate President Don Harmon, focusing his efforts on securing more resources for Chicago’s public schools, transit systems, and other city priorities.
Critics have raised concerns that the Mayor’s continued push for more state funding risks placing additional strain on suburban and downstate taxpayers who are already shouldering high costs. They argue that the focus should remain on long-term solutions and local reforms.
Senator Hills emphasized the importance of responsible budgeting and statewide fairness. “Suburban taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned dollars are being spent responsibly,” Hills said. “Families who are already stretched thin shouldn’t be asked to carry an even heavier burden. We need real reforms that respect taxpayers and strengthen our local communities.”
