State Sen. addresses LCFB

State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-53) admitted a heightened lack of civility in politics around the country has made the governing side tough. He spoke during the Livingston County Farm Bureau's annual Legislative Breakfast in Pontiac Friday morning.

“What we are seeing in politics is this aggressive mentality,” Barickman said.

Barickman discussed what he considers “radical” proposals such as a bill mandating gas stations to pump your gas, a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers and proposals to restrict parental rights for deciding health choices for children.

The state senator feels Gov. J.B. Pritzker does not know how to say no as he has not demonstrated a willingness to live within his means. As lawmakers embark on this year’s budget process, Pritzker is not proposing to fund schools at the level required by law.

“We’ve got an incredibly tough year ahead with the budget,” Barickman concluded.