Deuter Backs Expansion of Senior Property Tax Freeze, Energy Bill Savings, Responsible Transit Reform

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Marti Deuter, D-Elmhurst, this week supported an expansion of the senior property tax freeze, voted for a transformative public transit reform plan and backed a comprehensive energy package that will address rising energy costs.

“Rising costs are a pressing concern for many local residents, and I’m glad we could take strong steps this veto session to address the topic,” Deuter said. “Our energy plan is forward-thinking and will help to handle increasing demand for years to come.”

The Deuter-backed Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (Senate Bill 25) aims to curb the recent rise in customer electric bills by taking advantage of modern advancements in battery storage, energy efficiency and virtual power plants–energy that is already being generated as surplus power by home solar panels and other green sources that can be redistributed across the system to lower costs for all consumers. The measure also includes investments to strengthen the state’s electric grid, and is expected to create thousands of new construction and operational jobs.

Public transit reform (Senate Bill 2111) was another priority for Deuter, who has consistently sought reforms before funding considerations. The plan she backed creates a new overarching Northern Illinois Transit Agency (NITA), and takes immediate steps to improve rider safety, eliminate bureaucracy and strengthen financial protections to create a healthier transit network for the region.

Deuter also supported an expansion of the senior property tax freeze (Senate Bill 642) to make sure more seniors qualify for relief. The proposal increases the maximum income limitation from $65,000 to $75,000 in tax year 2026, and gradually increases to $79,000 in tax year 2028. As a member of the House Property Tax Working Group, Deuter is continuing to look at ways to lower costs for all homeowners.

“We still have challenges ahead, but when we work together, negotiate in good faith and build consensus, we can deliver impactful results for families,” Deuter said. “Let’s continue to build on this progress as we look at ways to address community concerns and make people’s lives easier.”

For more information, please contact Office@RepMartiDeuter.com.