Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro, alongside fellow House Republican lawmakers, held a press conference at the Capitol to criticize what they perceive as misplaced priorities by the House Democrat majority. The event highlighted concerns over a $737 million budget shortfall for FY26 and focused on recent Democrat-supported bills that allegedly do not address Illinois' significant fiscal challenges.

Rep. Sanalitro expressed concern that the majority party is overlooking the real issues affecting Illinois families in favor of an agenda she considers costly and ineffective. "Just a few weeks ago, House Republicans walked off the floor in protest because Democrats wasted an entire session-day debating toothless resolutions on federal issues—issues outside the responsibility of state government—while ignoring the real problems facing Illinois families," said Sanalitro.

She emphasized her constituents' frustration with what she describes as a broken tax system. Instead of addressing this, Sanalitro claims Democrats are pushing for reckless spending and tax increases. "Illinois families already face the highest state and local tax burden in the nation, yet the Governor has now proposed the largest budget in state history—$55.2 billion," said Sanalitro. "This massive spending plan won’t fix our tax system. It will only make things worse for hardworking families and businesses."

Sanalitro criticized several Democrat-backed policies, including bills to legalize prostitution, give judges discretion in cases of first-degree murder for offenders under 21, ban grocery bags, impose price restrictions on water bottles, and provide special protections for skunk and raccoon rehabilitation.

In contrast, Republicans have introduced measures aimed at providing tax relief. This includes two bills sponsored by Sanalitro to eliminate taxes on tips and overtime pay, which aim to reduce financial burdens on working residents of Illinois. "Despite all the political grandstanding about high taxes, the majority party has blocked both of these bills from even being discussed in committee," said Sanalitro.

While expressing frustration with what she views as misaligned priorities of the majority party, Sanalitro reaffirmed her commitment to bipartisan collaboration for practical solutions. For more information or inquiries, individuals are encouraged to contact Representative Sanalitro’s office at 630-349-0645.

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro serves House District 48, encompassing various communities within suburban DuPage and Cook counties.