Happy February! As we move through the 2026 Spring Legislative Session, my focus remains on standing up for the people of Southern Illinois and advancing common-sense policies that reflect our shared values. This is one of the busiest times of the year in Springfield, and I truly appreciate the calls, emails, and conversations I’ve had with so many of you. Your input plays an important role in shaping the work I do on your behalf.
In this edition of Friess Frame, we’ll cover the latest from Springfield, newly filed legislation, and recent visits to local schools. I’ll also share my reaction to Governor Pritzker’s Budget Address, share my upcoming community events, and other district highlights.
I appreciate each and every one of you who have stayed engaged throughout the legislative process. As always, it’s an honor to serve the 115th in Springfield!
February marks our second month back in Springfield for the 2026 legislative session. Unfortunately, with the Democrat supermajority in control, very little meaningful progress has been made. As I mentioned in my last newsletter, much of January was spent on partisan resolutions from the entrenched majority party that offered no real solutions to improve the lives of Illinois families. So far, February has moved at a similarly slow pace with even more partisan resolutions.
Committee hearings have now begun on newly filed legislation. So far this session, 542 bills have been released from the Rules Committee, 503 sponsored by Democrats and just 39 sponsored by Republicans. That lopsided breakdown reflects the reality of one-party control in Springfield. Several of my Republican colleagues and I have requested that more Republican-sponsored and bipartisan bills be given a fair hearing, but those requests have largely gone unanswered.
Before leaving Springfield on the 26th, the Democrats pushed HB910, Amendment 1, through committee. This is the “megaproject” bill that will give tax breaks to the owners of these megaprojects. Unfortunately, the tax breaks given to billionaires will be picked up by residents living near the megaproject. This shift in tax burdens is why the average Illinoisan complains about affordability in the state. This comes just days after Governor Pritzker claimed, “Things are just too damn expensive.”
This month, we also heard from JB Pritzker during his annual Budget and State of the State Address. Each year, the Governor is required to outline his administration’s fiscal priorities and spending proposals for the coming year. You’ll find my full reaction to the Governor’s address later in the newsletter.
Reach out with legislative suggestions
Newly filed legislation
In February, I filed three additional pieces of legislation to address important issues impacting our district. Combined with the two bills introduced in January, I have now filed five bills this session, including HB4907, HB5613, and HB5247. You can read more about these proposals below.
HB 4907 would change current law so that if a person released before trial is charged with any new offense, whether in Illinois or another state, their pretrial release can be revoked after a court hearing. Under existing law, this only applies to felony or Class A misdemeanor charges. This bill would expand that standard to all offenses, reinforcing public safety by tightening conditions for defendants out on pretrial release.
HB 5613 would amend the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act to broaden the definition of “public body.” Under this bill, certain non-governmental organizations that receive a portion of their funding from the state (the lesser of $10,000 or 20% of their funding) would have to comply with public meeting and records laws. The goal is to increase transparency for organizations that handle public money.
HB5247 would authorize the Department of Natural Resources to dispose of or sell the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois. If the sale moves forward, the bill requires a competitive sealed proposal process and allows the Director to obtain necessary surveys, appraisals, and environmental reports. Proceeds from the sale would first be used to repay any bonds issued for the complex, with the remaining funds directed to state development funds.
Visiting Local School Districts
This month, I had the opportunity to visit two local school districts and spend time with students, educators, and administrators in our community.
I visited Evansville Attendance Center, where I spoke with 7th and 8th-grade students about the ins and outs of state government. We discussed the legislative process, how legislative maps are drawn, and the importance of civic engagement and public service. The students were highly engaged and asked thoughtful, insightful questions. It was great to see their interest in how our state government operates.
During a separate visit, I had the honor of presenting Ella Walter with an official House certificate recognizing her 1st place finish in shot put at the SIJHSAA State Track Meet. Congratulations to Ella on this outstanding achievement!
Last week, I also met with the Coulterville School District Superintendent, along with students and staff, to discuss the district’s ongoing initiatives and priorities. We had productive conversations about how we can continue working together to support students and strengthen educational opportunities in our community.
My Reaction to Governor Pritzker’s FY27 Address
Last week, JB Pritzker delivered his annual State of the State and Budget Address to a joint session of the House and Senate. Like last year, he chose to shift blame for his administration’s failed policies to the federal government. While the Governor complained about funds Illinois has not received from Washington, he failed to address the fact that local municipalities are still owed money through the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF).
At the same time, while raising concerns about funding shortfalls, the Governor also failed to acknowledge the fact that Illinois has spent an estimated $2.5 billion on illegal aliens since 2020.
The LGDF was created to provide cities and counties with a percentage of total state income tax collections to help fund essential local services, such as police and fire protection, road maintenance, and infrastructure, in place of a local income tax. Originally set at 10% of total state income tax collections, the LGDF was reduced in 2011 and currently stands at just 6.16% of individual income tax collections and 6.845% of corporate income tax collections.
I have heard from countless local leaders across our district who believe the LGDF should be restored to its original 10%. Before pointing fingers at the federal government, the Governor should focus on fulfilling the state’s commitments to the communities right here in Illinois.
In addition, the Governor’s proposed budget continues a pattern of increased spending despite ongoing fiscal pressures facing our state. Instead of prioritizing structural reforms and long-term stability, this proposal relies on optimistic revenue assumptions and expanded spending commitments that put taxpayers at further risk. Illinois families are already stretched thin, and they cannot afford another cycle of unsustainable budgeting.
The Governor also failed to meaningfully address Illinois’ long-standing pension liabilities and the need for comprehensive reform. Without serious structural changes, pension costs will continue to crowd out funding for core services like education, public safety, and local government support. We need responsible budgeting that focuses on fiscal discipline, transparency, and putting Illinois back on a stable financial path.
Upcoming Events
In the coming months, my office has several upcoming events planned throughout the district. I encourage you to review the opportunities listed above and join us.
For additional details, updates, and future event announcements, please visit repfriess.com. I hope to see you there!
Looking ahead
As we move further into the 2026 legislative session, committee deadlines are quickly approaching, and key policy debates will begin to take shape. Decisions made in the coming weeks will determine which bills advance and what priorities move forward in Springfield. I encourage you to share your thoughts with me on the issues that matter most to you and your family.
My focus remains on fiscal responsibility, public safety, government transparency, and protecting the interests of Southern Illinois. As always, please don’t hesitate to contact my office if we can assist you in any way. Your input is invaluable, and I am proud to serve as your voice in Springfield.