In the late hours of the final day of the General Assembly’s fall Veto Session, Illinois Democrats passed their so-called “Energy Omnibus Bill,” which eliminates limits on how much energy rates can be increased, opening the door for an $8 billion hike on power bills.

Critics warn the law will drive up costs for families already struggling with high utility bills while directing billions toward special-interest projects and unproven technology that will not make energy more affordable or reliable. The measure also strips away local control, allowing large battery storage facilities to be built within 150 feet of a home or farm with no recourse for local governments to object.

Senate Republicans say families across Illinois are already being crushed by rising costs, and instead of offering real relief, this proposal makes things worse. By removing these protections and giving unelected agencies unlimited power to raise rates, the legislation will make energy more expensive and less reliable for Illinois families.