South West Illinois News

Illinois State Representative David Friess has provided an update on recent legislative activity following the conclusion of the Veto Session in Springfield. Friess, a Republican who was elected to represent the 115th House District in 2023, addressed several key issues affecting his district and the state.

During the Veto Session, Friess voiced strong opposition to new tax increases and criticized what he described as partisan actions by Democratic leadership. He highlighted his vote against SB25, an "energy omnibus" bill that he said would raise electric bills and transfer up to $84 million to the EV and Charging Fund while reducing local authority over energy projects. While noting that repealing the state's nuclear construction ban was a positive step, Friess argued that “SB25 guts reliable baseload energy, threatens grid stability, and drives up costs for consumers, small businesses, and job creators across Illinois.” He added: “I support an all-of-the-above energy strategy that keeps power affordable, reliable, and safe, not these costly, unproven ‘green energy’ experiments that Illinois families simply can’t afford.”

Friess also discussed his participation in the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s Workforce Summit Panel alongside State Senator Terri Bryant and State Representative Patrick Windhorst. The event focused on workforce development challenges facing manufacturers in Illinois. “Manufacturing is the backbone of our state’s economy,” Friess stated. He thanked IMA for its efforts to promote growth across Illinois.

In terms of infrastructure initiatives, Friess announced he had filed House Bill 4146 to allocate $5 million from the Build Illinois Bond Fund for repairs to Monroe County’s Stringtown Levee. The measure aims to protect homes and farmland by supporting necessary improvements. He encouraged residents to contact their legislators about HB4146.

Addressing public safety concerns, Friess criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker's administration over the TRUST Act after a fatal incident involving an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala who killed two residents while driving under the influence. “The TRUST Act has handcuffed law enforcement and prevented cooperation with federal authorities,” he said. Friess called for repeal of the act: “Our law enforcement officers must be allowed to do their jobs, and our communities deserve to be safe.”

On social services issues such as SNAP benefits amid possible federal government shutdowns, Friess noted ongoing uncertainty could impact families relying on food assistance programs. He urged constituents needing help accessing resources or food pantries to contact his office.

Friess also opposed SB 2111—a transit reform bill passed late during session—arguing it centralizes control within Chicago-area interests at the expense of downstate regions like Southern Illinois without providing stable funding or meaningful improvements for transit systems statewide.

Looking ahead to next year’s legislative session, Friess reiterated his focus on fiscal responsibility and accountability: “As we look ahead… my priorities remain the same: fighting for fiscal responsibility, reliable and affordable energy, government accountability, and common-sense policies that put Illinois families first.”

Friess concluded by encouraging residents of his district to reach out with concerns or requests for assistance.

Additional background information shows that David Friess succeeded Nathan Reitz as representative of Illinois' 115th House District following his election in 2023.