Last week, we heard Governor Pritzker’s 2026 budget proposal, met with advocates and first responders, and celebrated the achievements of people making our district proud. Thank you for staying engaged and making your voices heard. Your voices continue to shape the work we’re doing in Springfield.
This week’s topics include:
- Senator Darby Hills Calls for a State Budget That Puts Families Before Government Growth
- You asked. We acted. – Nitrous Oxide Bill
- FREE Museum Pass Card
- Make Your Voice Heard on Legislation – File Witness Slips
- Superior Ambulance at the Capitol
- Constituents at the Capitol
- Darby’s District Highlight – Olympian Kevin Bickner from Wauconda
Senator Darby Hills Calls for a State Budget That Puts Families Before Government Growth
While Illinois families are cutting back to make ends meet, government spending has grown nearly 40 percent since Governor Pritzker took office. That’s where any honest budget conversation must begin, because responsible budgeting starts with protecting families and prioritizing their needs, not growing government.
Right now, parents are stretching every dollar to cover groceries, gas, childcare, and property taxes. They were hoping to hear real relief. Instead, the Governor proposed another record-setting budget that spends more than $56 billion, supported by new taxes and short-term fixes, with almost no margin for error. That is not the kind of stability families need.
At a time when families are leaving Illinois for lower taxes and better opportunities, Springfield should be focused on easing the burden, strengthening schools, supporting local communities, and making it more affordable to raise a family here. Before asking taxpayers to pay more, state government must prove it can responsibly manage the money it already collects.
I will continue to stand up for parents, small businesses, and seniors who simply want a state that lives within its means. Illinois families deserve a budget that reflects their priorities, respects their hard work, and keeps opportunity right here at home.
You asked. We acted.
I’ve heard from parents across our district who are worried about the rise in nitrous oxide misuse and the impact it’s having on young people.
As a mom and as your State Senator, I take those concerns seriously. When families tell me something is putting their children at risk, I don’t ignore it.
That’s why I filed legislation, SB 2738, to strengthen penalties for the unlawful possession and sale of nitrous oxide when it’s intended for abuse. This measure increases consequences for those who are profiting from dangerous misuse and puts stronger safeguards in place to protect our kids.
Let me be clear, this would not impact legitimate medical, surgical, or dental use under the supervision of a licensed professional.
Our communities should be places where families feel safe and supported. When you speak up to protect your children and your neighborhoods, I will always listen.
FREE Museum Pass Card
I’m excited to share that my office offers a FREE Museum Pass Card for up to four people to explore some of Chicagoland’s world-class museums and zoos. From the Art Institute to the Field Museum, Brookfield Zoo, the Shedd Aquarium, and more, this pass makes it easy to enjoy a day of learning and fun with your family. This program is available to residents of the 26th Senate District on a first-come, first-served basis. For more details and to reserve your Museum Pass Card, please visit https://www.senatordarbyhills.com/museum-pass/
Constituents at the Capitol
Thank you to the Illinois Academy of PAs for spending the day at the Capitol advocating for patients and providers across our state. I was especially proud to meet with the one representative from our district who lives in Inverness!
I appreciate all of you for engaging in the legislative process and working to strengthen access to quality health care in Illinois!
It was a pleasure welcoming Donna and Mike Natywa to the Capitol for their first visit! I had a free moment to show them around and share a little bit about the work we’re doing here in Springfield. I always enjoy connecting with constituents and giving them a closer look at their state government in action.
Superior Ambulance at the Capitol
I enjoyed meeting with representatives from Superior Ambulance at the Capitol. Hearing directly from emergency medical professionals helps ensure the policies we consider reflect the realities they face in the field. Thank you to all of our first responders for the work you do every day to keep our families safe!
Darby’s District Highlight – Olympian Kevin Bickner from Wauconda
I’m incredibly proud to spotlight Kevin Bickner, a Wauconda native and trailblazer in winter sports, who has once again earned his place on Team USA’s ski jumping team for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy. Kevin’s journey from a young jumper at the Norge Ski Club to competing on the world’s biggest stage exemplifies Midwest grit and determination. As the American national record holder for the longest ski jump ever, he continues to soar and represent our community with distinction.
His dedication not only brings honor to Wauconda and our district but also inspires young athletes everywhere to pursue their dreams. Please join me in cheering on Kevin as he represents our district and the United States in Italy this February.
Make Your Voice Heard on Legislation – File Witness Slips
As bills move through the legislative process, they are assigned to committee hearings. When that happens, you have an important opportunity to officially register your support or opposition through a witness slip.
The witness slip portal opens once a bill is posted for hearing and closes immediately after the committee concludes. These submissions become part of the official record, and yes, we do review them before hearings. Your input truly matters.
If you are unsure how to file a witness slip, I encourage you to watch the short instructional video linked here. It is a simple but powerful way to participate in state government.
I strongly encourage you to stay engaged. And as always, you are welcome to call my office or email me directly to share your thoughts on any pending legislation.
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As always, my office is here to help if you have questions or need assistance with anything. You can contact us here or call (224)662-4544.
Yours truly,
Senator Darby Hills