Charlie’s Capitol Catch Up: Affordability, School Choice, Murray Center, & More

Here’s an update of on some important topics you should know about and what’s going on around the 109th district.

Democrats Want to Tax Your Campfires & Firepits

When it comes to staying warm and enjoying time outdoors, Illinois House Democrats seem determined to make it as expensive as possible. First came their massive energy rate hike last fall. Now, Representative Murri Briel and House Democrats are proposing legislation that would allow municipalities to charge a fee just for lighting a campfire.

House Bill 4459 would open the door for local governments to impose a $5 charge on open burns, including campfires. For families, campers, and anyone simply trying to enjoy the outdoors, this is effectively another tax on everyday life.

For a party that claims to be fighting for affordability, it’s fair to ask: how does taxing campfires accomplish that? The answer is simple. It doesn’t. This is just the latest example of Democrats driving up the cost of living for Illinois families.

I remain committed to finding real solutions to address affordability, like reigning in spending, cutting taxes, and opposing unnecessary taxes and fees.

And That’s Not All!

Democratic State Representative Laura Faver Dias has filed a bill to bring back the Democrats’ proposed bag tax, just another example of their push to raise the cost of living on Illinois families.

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As more legislation is introduced, it’s becoming clear that Democrats’ agenda for the 2026 session is to make everyday life even more expensive. Under Faver Dias’ proposal, a new carryout bag tax would be imposed and then increased by five cents each year through 2030. The tax would apply to paper, plastic, and even reusable bags.

House Republicans have continued to call for lowering the cost of living and reining in out-of-control spending. We have filed numerous bills to help working families, including a bill I am cosponsoring, HB 4519, to eliminate taxes on tips.

Murray Workers Demand Accountability

Last week, Murray Center workers took a stand against poor leadership and lack of accountability within DHS. Those workers know better than anyone about the disastrous leadership at DHS. I support them and hope this gets the attention of Governor Pritzker.

Read my full statement.

Rep. Charlie Meier Honors Promise to Improve “Dignity in Pay Act”

I am continuing my work to legislate on behalf of workers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. I was an outspoken critic of the “Dignity in Pay Act,” which passed during the 103rd General Assembly in 2024. The legislation eliminated 14c certificates and required individuals with intellectual disabilities to be paid minimum wage. At the time, I expressed serious concerns that this legislation could unintentionally force people with intellectual disabilities in Community Day Service (CDS) settings out of work and promised to file legislation to address needed fixes.

Now, it’s time to fix it.