Friend,
I hope your week is off to a good start.
It was wonderful connecting with so many of you at Darby in the District last Friday at Brandts of Palatine! I also had the honor of attending the Annual Illinois Chamber of Commerce luncheon, where I heard directly from business leaders about the opportunities and challenges facing our state. This week, be sure to check out important information on Illinois’ limited-time tax amnesty program and join me in remembering the legacy of former Governor Jim Edgar. See details below for more information!
Also, please mark your calendars for my two upcoming senior fairs! I have one in Wauconda on October 8, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., and one in Palatine on October 22, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
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.
Sincerely,
Senator Darby Hills
Darby in the District – Brandts of Palatine
Thank you to everyone who came to chat with me on Friday at Brandts of Palatine. It was wonderful to see you there! Stay tuned for where my next Darby in the District location will be.
Annual Illinois Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
It was a pleasure to join the Annual Illinois Chamber of Commerce luncheon. I truly value the opportunity to hear directly from business leaders about the challenges and opportunities facing our state, from workforce development to innovation and growth. Conversations like these are essential for understanding how policies impact businesses and families across Illinois. I remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen our economy, foster job creation, and ensure that every Illinois family has the opportunity to thrive.
Upcoming Senior Fairs – Save the Dates!
Join us to discover ways to lead a happier, healthier lifestyle! Enjoy a variety of vendors sharing programs that benefit seniors, grab informative legislative brochures, and have fun at this free event:
- Wauconda: October 8, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Palatine: October 22, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Learn more about these events by visiting my events page on my website here.
Limited Time, Eliminate Tax Debt and Pay Zero Interest
The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is offering Illinois taxpayers reprieve this fall.
Those with outstanding tax liabilities from qualifying dates will get late penalties and interest forgiven. Penalties and interest on unpaid taxes from the period between June 30, 2018, and July 1, 2024, are eligible for the amnesty.
Eligible tax liabilities and returns must be paid and filed in full between October 1 and November 17 to qualify for the waiver of penalty and interest. IDOR does not collect property taxes. Estate, franchise, and insurance taxes also do not fall under IDOR and do not qualify for forgiveness. Illinois taxpayers have the right to appeal IDOR decisions.
IDOR’s last tax amnesty was in October and November of 2019. No future amnesty periods are currently planned in the Illinois Tax Delinquency Amnesty Act. Amendments to the act with additional dates require action from the Illinois General Assembly.
Visit tax.illinois.gov/taxamnesty for full instructions and further resources.
Remembering Former-Governor Jim Edgar
Jim Edgar, 38th Governor of Illinois (1991–1999), died September 14, 2025, at 79 after battling pancreatic cancer. Known for his dedication to bipartisanship, he tackled the state budget deficit, reformed education and welfare, strengthened child protection, and led Illinois through the Great Flood of 1993. Edgar began as a legislative intern, later serving as State Representative and Secretary of State before becoming governor. After leaving office, he continued public advocacy through initiatives like the Jim Edgar Fellow Program, training emerging policy leaders to address the state’s biggest challenges.
Being in Champaign just last month as an Edgar Fellow gave me a deeper appreciation for the way he dedicated himself to developing leaders and creating a brighter future for Illinois. His kindness, integrity, and dedication to service have left a mark on me that I will carry forward with gratitude and pride.
Visitation services honoring the former governor were held on Friday, September 19, at the Illinois State Capitol, followed by memorial services on Saturday.
