Halbrook Files Energy Package, Focuses on Reliability and Affordability

SHELBYVILLE, IL… State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) has filed a bill package aimed at addressing the current and worsening energy crisis affecting Illinois.

• HB 4121- 'The End the Energy Tax Act': This measure eliminates all state-mandated taxes, surcharges, and subsidy fees from electric bills and works to cut hidden costs for families and small businesses.
• HB 4122- 'Fast-Track Nuclear Now Act': The bill accelerates the approval and construction of new nuclear facilities to deliver safe, clean, and affordable long-term energy for Illinois.
• HB 4123- 'Save Our Power Plants Act': The bill grants 15-year extensions for coal and natural gas plants that are scheduled for closure under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), preventing shortages and further price hikes.
• HB 4124- 'Uncap Affordable Power Act': This measure removes emissions caps on natural gas and electrical generation to restore affordable, reliable baseload power and to stabilize the grid.

"Since before CEJA was signed into law, I have been a staunch opponent of Democrats' push to move Illinois to carbon-free energy sources," began Rep. Halbrook. "The policies have been poorly thought out and unworkable, placing political agendas ahead of reliability and affordability. Energy is not a luxury, but with the constantly rising prices, it is being treated as one, which is why I filed this legislation to make utilities affordable again."

Halbrook has been sounding the alarm about the harmful effects of Democrats' radical energy policies, noting how they restrict carbon-emitting energy sources without a plan for the future. In May, Ameren, the largest serving utility company in central and southern Illinois, cemented his concerns when the results from the recent Midcontinental Independent System Operator (MISO) capacity auction were released. From May 2024 to May 2025, rates per Megawatt-day increased from $30 to $666.50, which caused dramatic increases in energy prices this summer.

"In early May, my colleagues and I formally called on Democrat leaders to hold hearings on the emerging crisis. They ignored our request. Now, months later, families are drowning in high bills-and the majority is just beginning to ask questions they should have answered long ago," Halbrook continued. "House Energy and Environment Committee Chairwoman Ammons says she was waiting to hear from constituents before taking action. Well, we heard from constituents months ago-and we responded with a call for hearings and a plan. Now that prices have exploded, they're finally hosting a town hall. But Illinois families don't need a public forum-they need real reform. That's what my bill package delivers."

Halbrook's bills remain in the Rules Committee. To follow along with the bills' actions, visit ilga.gov. With questions, contact Rep. Halbrook at (217) 342-0220 or visit RepHalbrook.com.

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