Chambana Sun

As Memorial Day approaches, a bill aimed at protecting the Mahomet Aquifer has passed both the Illinois House and Senate and is now awaiting the governor's signature. This legislation seeks to ban carbon dioxide sequestration and storage under the aquifer, which provides drinking water to one million residents in central Illinois.

Senator Chapin Rose expressed gratitude for public support, stating, "The calls, emails, and letters from concerned central Illinoisans played a massive role in getting us to this point." He also acknowledged Senator Faraci's efforts in advancing this bipartisan legislation. However, Rose noted that Governor Pritzker's prior actions contributed to the current situation by allowing CO2 sequestration near the aquifer. The bill passed with a veto-proof majority, yet Rose urges continued public pressure on Governor Pritzker to sign it into law.

In another legislative effort, Senator Rose has filed Senate Bill 2246 to address rising property taxes in Illinois. The proposed bill aims to cap annual property tax increases at the inflation rate and enhance 'truth in taxation' measures. According to Rose, these steps are necessary as "the government shouldn’t be ‘piling on’ – it’s time for property tax relief."

Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. At the Capitol, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of the 2025 Memorial Day Wall of Remembrance. Senator Rose will participate in an event honoring Corporal Nelson Earl Van Gundy in Mattoon. Corporal Van Gundy served with distinction during the Vietnam War and lost his life on June 9, 1965.

For those interested in learning more about Memorial Day or ways to honor veterans year-round, resources are available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.