Macon Reporter

State Representative Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) has filed a post-judgment petition with the Illinois Supreme Court to vacate its decision on the weapons ban law. Caulkins argues that there were ethical problems in how the case was decided and that there was a denial of due process under the 14th Amendment. Specifically, Caulkins points out that Justices Elizabeth Rochford and Mary Kay O’Brien participated in the case despite receiving substantial contributions from the leaders of the co-equal branches of government. Caulkins believes that these contributions call into question the impartiality and independence of the justices. Caulkins stated, "It has been our contention all along that these two justices should have recused themselves. For this reason, we are asking the High Court to vacate its previous decision."

In other news, the Illinois Freedom Caucus has formally requested legislative hearings on immigration. The caucus sent a letter to House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, stating that given the impact of the immigration issue on the nation, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois, it is necessary to hold public hearings on the topic. The letter reads, "Due to very serious concerns surrounding the immigration crisis, we are formally requesting the Illinois House of Representatives hold public hearings on this topic in Northern, Central, and Southern Illinois, beginning with the City of Chicago."

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is requesting an additional $650 million for their budget. The proposal includes $35 million in new funding for a line item called "supporting newcomers." This money would be used for hiring bilingual teachers, buying materials in students' native languages, providing additional before- and after-school programming, and other supports for children and families. The ISBE argues that the number of "newcomers" in Illinois has grown nearly 85 percent over the past two years and that this funding is necessary to meet their needs.

Chicago Alderwoman Maria Hadden is pushing to ban natural gas in all new buildings in the city as part of efforts to fight climate change. However, critics argue that this idea is misguided and costly. They believe that living in a northern climate requires the use of dependable energy sources like fossil fuels, nuclear energy, coal, and natural gas. They argue that alternative energy sources like electric vehicle chargers, windmills, and solar panels are ineffective and expensive.

In lighter news, here are eight bright facts about citrus fruits. These fruits have evolved over the course of 25 million years and offer a little sweet and sour to brighten up any meal.

For those interested in the political landscape, there is a map of the new 88th House District available on Representative Caulkins' website. Residents can use the link provided to see if they live in the district and find contact information for Caulkins' office.

As your State Representative, Caulkins' office is available to assist with any issues related to state agencies. Residents can call the office to get help or schedule an appointment to see Caulkins. The office is located at 715 W Imboden Dr, Decatur.

These are the latest updates on Rep. Caulkins' court challenge on the gun ban law, the Illinois Freedom Caucus' request for legislative hearings on immigration, the ISBE's request for additional funding, the proposed ban on natural gas in Chicago, and some interesting facts about citrus fruits.