The House and Senate returned to Springfield this week. The House was in session Tuesday and Wednesday with the Senate in session Tuesday through Thursday.
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Very little action was taken by Committees this week. Most of the members are focused on finalizing their legislation before the bill filing deadline that is on February 16th.
The Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee did not meet this week, but it was reorganized to accommodate the retirement of Sen. Donnie Trotter (D-Chicago). Chairperson, Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) replaces Sen. Trotter as Majority Caucus Chair and is now the Vice Chairperson on the Committee. Sen. Michael Hasting (D-Frankfort) is replacing Sen. Trotter on the Energy Committee and will be the Chairperson of the Committee.
The House Energy Committee is scheduled to meet next Tuesday at 4 pm. The Committee will consider HR 651 (Rep. Andre Thapedi, D-Chicago). The resolution encourages the utility industry to use advanced transmission technology. The resolution is an initiative of American Electric Power. The Energy Association has not taken a position on the resolution at this time.
The Governor is scheduled to give has annual budget address on Wednesday of next week. The Governor is expected to propose phasing out the most recent income tax increase. The budget is also expected to take into consideration the tax changes recently made by the Federal government. None of the Governor’s previously proposed budgets has been given serious consideration by the General Assembly, but his budget address does help set the tone for future budget negotiations.
The General Assembly is in Session Tuesday through Thursday of next week. The deadline for introduction of new bills in both Chambers is set for next Friday.
The Illinois Energy Association has scheduled their annual House Committees reception for March 6th at Maldaner’s from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The Senate Committees reception is scheduled for March 13th at the Sangamo Club from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The annual Association Breakfast is scheduled for March 14th at the Sangamo Club for 8:30 am. This year, Senate Energy and Public Utilities Chairman Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort) will be the guest speaker for breakfast. Anyone wishing to attend any of these events should RSVP to Erica Drake at edrake@elaineg75.sg-host.com or by calling 217-523-7348.
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