Illinois State Representative David Friess has provided an update on legislative activities and priorities as the 2026 Spring Legislative Session continues in Springfield. Friess, a Republican who was elected to represent the 115th House District in 2023, replacing Nathan Reitz, addressed constituents about his recent work and concerns regarding the pace of progress in the legislature.
Friess noted that February marks the second month back in session and described limited progress due to what he characterized as partisan resolutions from the majority party. He stated, “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.”
He highlighted that out of 542 bills released from committee so far this session, only 39 were sponsored by Republicans while 503 came from Democrats. Friess commented on this imbalance: “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.”
Among legislation moving forward is HB910 Amendment 1, which Friess described as providing tax breaks for owners of large projects at residents’ expense. “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,” he said.
In February, Friess filed three new bills: HB4907 would allow courts to revoke pretrial release if a defendant is charged with any new offense; HB5613 would expand transparency requirements for certain organizations receiving state funds; and HB5247 would authorize selling or disposing of state property at Sparta’s World Shooting and Recreational Complex through a competitive process.
Friess also recounted visits to local schools where he discussed government processes with students and recognized achievements such as Ella Walter’s first-place finish at a state track meet.
Regarding Governor JB Pritzker’s recent Budget Address, Friess expressed criticism over funding priorities and spending increases: “Like last year, he chose to shift blame for his administration’s failed policies to the federal government… 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.” He called for restoration of municipal funding through the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) and argued for responsible budgeting focused on fiscal discipline.
Friess encouraged constituents to participate in upcoming district events and share feedback on legislative matters affecting their communities.
For further updates or information about future events hosted by Rep. Friess’s office, constituents are directed to visit repfriess.com.
