SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler recently discussed the return of state senators to the capitol for a lame-duck session scheduled for early January. He made this announcement in a Facebook post dated December 23.

"The Senate Republicans have been busy around their districts speaking with local groups, meeting with constituents, and attending various events to better understand the challenges and concerns affecting the community," said Fowler, State Representative, according to Facebook. "This scheduled break serves as an opportunity to start the drafting process for bills they plan to file for the new General Assembly, which is set to begin on Inauguration Day, January 8, 2025. Prior to Inauguration Day, Senators are expected to come back sometime between January 2nd and January 7th for a “lame duck session" to finish things up for the 103rd General Assembly."

In a news release on December 13, Fowler addressed the nature of the lame-duck session. According to Fowler, "In years when they occur, lame-duck sessions are held after the election and fall veto session, but before newly elected officials are sworn in." He explained that these sessions are often viewed as a period when outgoing legislators might support controversial legislation without fearing political repercussions. The most recent session in January 2023 resulted in the passage of a weapons ban and an expansion of abortion services. In 2021, it led to the enactment of the controversial SAFE-T Act, and in 2011, it resulted in a 67% increase in income tax.

Screenshot of State Senator Dale Fowler's Dec. 23 Facebook post | State Senator Dale Fowler's Facebook page

According to WGEM's report on November 22, because the entire legislature gets a fresh start on January 8, there is momentum for legislators whose bills have passed through committee or one chamber. A lame-duck session provides another opportunity to pass these bills before the new legislative session begins. WGEM noted that while there was little contention in the Senate regarding a lame-duck session, House Republicans unanimously opposed it. Despite this opposition, the vote passed with a tally of 71-37. WGEM also reported that Governor J.B. Pritzker spoke about potential legislation aimed at protecting healthcare and abortion rights during this period.

Fowler represents Illinois' 59th Senate District. His official biography indicates that prior to joining the state senate, he served as mayor of Harrisburg and is currently employed as a business development officer for People’s National Bank in Harrisburg. This role followed his retirement from the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice in 2012. His previous political roles include serving as a city commissioner and Saline County Board member. Additionally, Fowler chairs the Midland Institute’s Saline County CEO program focused on educating youths about entrepreneurial opportunities.