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Bill Cunningham — Democratic State Senator for Illinois District 18 (official headshot)

Bill Cunningham Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform

IL Senator

District: 18 • Democrat

2024 DEM Alignment:

2.08%

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Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter

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Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-IL-18) earned a 2% National Democrat Platform score for 2024, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Bill Cunningham voted on 48 of the 48 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2024. Bill Cunningham represents the 18th District in the Illinois State Senate.

Title

Lawmaker Position

HB 2161Senate 20241x

Increasing Frivolous Litigation and Legal Liabilities by Making Having "Family Responsibilities" a Protected Characteristic in Employment.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits discrimination in employment based on "family responsibilities," an employee''s actual or perceived provision of personal care to a family member. This government overreach unnecessarily exposes employers to new avenues of frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs'' attorneys. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Frivolous litigation burdens individuals and businesses, while also driving up costs and worsening court backlogs.
HB 2499Senate 20241x

Restricting the Ability to Select Health Insurance That Best Suits an Individual''s Needs by Prohibiting Limited-Duration Insurance.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits health insurance companies from issuing, delivering, or renewing short-term, limited-duration insurance in the state. Short-term, limited-duration insurance policies, accident and health insurance with a duration of less than 365 days are exempt from minimum standards under Obamacare. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
HB 255Senate 20241x

Fueling Wasteful Spending Through the Creation of a Conservation Education and Workforce Development Pilot Program.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes a pilot program to promote conservation education and job training through grants, developing and implementing conservation education or job training programs, and providing internship opportunities. Under the bill, individuals must be citizens of the state and between 15 to 25 years of age. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government spending and the increasing national debt are a serious threat to America’s stability and is an unjust burden on future generations of Americans. The enormous national debt weakens the US economy and makes the country vulnerable to foreign adversaries such as China, which currently holds significant US debt. ACI strongly supports fiscal responsibility in government spending, reducing the size of the government, and overall spending cuts.
HB 3773Senate 20241x

Imposing Additional Regulations on Private Employers Regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Predictive Analytics in Employment Decisions.

Against DEMs
This bill imposes overly broad restrictions on the use of predictive data analytics (including artificial intelligence) in employment decisions, opening employers up to frivolous litigation brought forward by deviant plaintiffs'' attorneys. This bill stipulates that an employer that uses predictive data analytics in its employment decisions may not consider the applicant''s biographical information, such as race or zip code, to reject an applicant in recruiting, hiring, promotion, renewal of employment, and more. However, the bill allows the use of predictive data analytics to promote an "inclusive and diverse workforce." Under the bill, it is a civil rights violation if the use of artificial intelligence (AI) merely "has the effect" of subjecting employees to discrimination and if an employer fails to notify an employee that AI is being used. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
HB 4118Senate 20241x

Hiking Utility Costs by Further Restricting the Ability of Utility Companies to Disconnect Services for Non-Payment.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits electric and gas utilities from disconnecting services for non-payment of customers applying for public energy assistance. Specifically, the bill prohibits disconnection for 30 days if the utility receives notice that the customer has applied for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). If assistance is received, the utility is prohibited from disconnecting service for another 45 days following notification of received assistance. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. Growth of the welfare state disincentivizes employment and can lead to intergenerational poverty. ACI supports policies that reduce government dependency and help individuals live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
HB 4141Senate 20241x

Increasing Government Dependency by Providing "Energy Rate Assistance" to Individuals Living in Government-Subsidized Housing.

Against DEMs
This bill expands eligibility for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) by allowing households that receive rental assistance to also qualify for energy assistance. To qualify, households receiving subsidized housing must not be a current utility customer of record because energy services are provided as part of their rent, and the rental expenses must not be more than 30% of household income. Growth of the welfare state disincentivizes employment and can lead to intergenerational poverty. ACI supports policies that reduce government dependency and help individuals live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
HB 4261Senate 20241x

Further Growing Government by Extending Numerous Task Forces and Creating a Creative Economy Task Force.

Against DEMs
This bill extends the reporting dates for numerous state task forces, such as the Illinois Rental Housing Support Program Funding Allocation Task Force and the Alternative Protein Innovation Task Force. The bill also creates the Creative Economy Task Force for the purpose of creating a strategic plan to develop the "creative economy" in the state.
HB 4417Senate 20241x

Forcing Taxpayers to Promote Labor Unions and State-Approved Apprenticeships by Establishing a "Workplace Readiness Week" in Public High Schools.

Against DEMs
This bill requires all public high schools, including charter schools, to annually observe a "Workplace Readiness Week" by providing students information on "their rights as workers" and specifies the topics that must be covered. Under the bill, schools must cover local, state, and federal laws, the labor movement''s role in "winning the protections and benefits described in law," and introduce state-approved apprenticeship programs. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. Education is fundamental to upward mobility and overall success. ACI opposes efforts to use K-12 schools to promote social or political agendas, and supports school choice policies (including charter schools, vouchers, education savings accounts, and homeschooling) and that parents should have the right to choose the best educational solution for their children.
HB 4467Senate 20241x

Hiking Costs and Weakening Property Rights of Mobile Home Park Owners Through Increased Licensing Fees and New Inspection Mandates.

Against DEMs
This bill amends existing law related to licensing for mobile home park owners, stipulating that licenses are nontransferable and requiring that new license applications be submitted with 10 days of the sale of a mobile home park. For 2025, annual fees are increased to $300 plus $15 for each mobile home space in the park (previously $250 plus $7 for each mobile home space) and are set to increase annually, resulting in an annual fee of $300 plus $25 for each mobile home space by 2030. Finally, the bill requires the Department of Public Health to conduct annual inspections of mobile home parks. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
HB 4471Senate 20241x

Increasing Government Dependency by Making Permanent the Funding Mechanism of Two Utility Rate Assistance Programs.

Against DEMs
This bill removes the January 1, 2025 repeal date of the Supplemental Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund, which finances 2 utility rate assistance programs, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. Growth of the welfare state disincentivizes employment and can lead to intergenerational poverty. ACI supports policies that reduce government dependency and help individuals live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
HB 4582Senate 20241x

Further Indebting Taxpayers by Increasing the Amount of Bonds Issued by the State by Over $2.3 Billion Increase.

Against DEMs
This bill increases the state''s total general obligation bond (debt) authorization from $79.4 billion to over $81.7 billion. The increased bonds support the Build Illinois Bond Act, the Illinois Housing Development Acts, and bond hikes for economic development, higher education, and more. The bill also increases the maximum term of school bonds from 20 to 30 years. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government spending and the increasing national debt are a serious threat to America’s stability and is an unjust burden on future generations of Americans. The enormous national debt weakens the US economy and makes the country vulnerable to foreign adversaries such as China, which currently holds significant US debt. ACI strongly supports fiscal responsibility in government spending, reducing the size of the government, and overall spending cuts.
HB 4768Senate 20241x

Increasing Housing Costs by Superfluously Establishing Prohibited Retaliatory Actions by Landlords.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes the list of prohibited retaliatory actions by a landlord against a tenant for actions such as reporting code violations to a government agency, joining or forming a tenants'' union, or making a complaint to the media. Under the bill, retaliatory actions not only include evicting a tenant, but also include increasing rent, decreasing or withholding services, refusing to renew a lease, or bringing or threatening to bring a lawsuit against a tenant. This measure provides a new tool that devious tenants may utilize to extort landlords through frivolous allegations, ultimately driving up rental rates by exposing landlords to new risk. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Frivolous litigation burdens individuals and businesses, while also driving up costs and worsening court backlogs.
HB 4867Senate 20241x

Increasing Frivolous Litigation and Legal Liabilities by Making Receiving an Abortion a Protected Characteristic in Employment and Housing.

Against DEMs
This bill makes a person''s "reproductive health" decisions a protected characteristic, prohibiting denying someone employment or housing based on their decisions regarding the person''s use of contraception, fertility or sterilization care, abortion, prenatal and intranatal care, and more. This bill serves as a new tool by plaintiffs'' attorneys to subject employers and housing providers to frivolous litigation, merely driving-up costs for consumers and harming employment opportunities for women. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Life. ACI supports pro-life solutions that acknowledges life begins at conception, that individuals are created in the image of God, and have inherent dignity regardless of development or ability. Therefore, we oppose laws that support abortion, including the use of medical abortion drugs. ACI is committed to supporting a culture of life in the United States. We support policies and community solutions that ensure families do not feel forced to choose abortion due to financial hardship or lack of support. ACI supports returning abortion law to the states as a step towards ensuring unborn children receive legal protection under the Constitution.
HB 4951Senate 20241x

Expanding Cronyism Through Tax Credits to Government-Favored Industries and Imposing a New "Swipe Fee" Prohibition on Businesses.

Against DEMs
This bill creates a child tax credit for employed individuals with a child under the age of 12, a tax credit for news organizations that employ journalists, and a music and musician tax credit for qualified music companies. The bill also increases income tax credits for ex-offenders to 15% of qualified wages (previously 5%) with a cap of $7,500 annually (previously $1,500). Additionally, Community Mental Health Boards are granted new authority to establish "professional incentive programs" for workforce development and retention (education assistance, student loan repayment, internship stipends, etc.), and debit and credit card networks and issuers are prohibited from imposing "swipe fees" on sales taxes, excise taxes, and tips/gratuity. Lower rates of taxation spur investment, hiring and economic growth. The tax code should be structured in a simple and broadly applied manner with rates as low as possible for everyone. ACI opposes tax hikes and cronyism within the tax code that provides select individuals, businesses or industries with special benefits or carve outs at the expense of the rest of the population.
HB 5142Senate 20241x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating All Policies Cover Postpartum, Pregnancy, and Newborn Care Services at No Cost.

Against DEMs
This bill requires health insurers to cover all services for pregnancy, postpartum, and newborn care that are provided by perinatal doulas, licensed certified professional midwives, and lactation consultants, with limitations. Under the bill, coverage for postpartum services applies for 12 months after the end of pregnancy. The bill also mandates that all required coverage be provided without cost-sharing, except for home births and certain mental health services. Finally, the bill expands eligible services covered under the state''s medical assistance program to include certified professional midwife services.
HB 5239Senate 20241x

Establishing a "Sanctuary State" for Abortion by Prohibiting Law Enforcement Cooperation with Out-of-State Authorities.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits all Illinois authorities from disclosing information or using resources to aid any investigation into someone receiving abortion services within the state. The bill allows individuals to sue for civil damages if these provisions are violated. Additionally, the bill allows minors to apply for public aid to obtain family planning services without parental consent. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Life. ACI supports pro-life solutions that acknowledges life begins at conception, that individuals are created in the image of God, and have inherent dignity regardless of development or ability. Therefore, we oppose laws that support abortion, including the use of medical abortion drugs. ACI is committed to supporting a culture of life in the United States. We support policies and community solutions that ensure families do not feel forced to choose abortion due to financial hardship or lack of support. ACI supports returning abortion law to the states as a step towards ensuring unborn children receive legal protection under the Constitution.
HB 5290Senate 20241x

Growing Government Dependency by Establishing a Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes a pilot program to acquire and discharge the medical debt of eligible low and middle-income residents. To be eligible, household income must be at or below 400% of the federal poverty level, or medical debt must equal at least 5% household income. The budget appropriates $10 million for the program.
HB 5296Senate 20241x

Infringing Private Contracting Rights by Prohibiting Homeowners Associations from Restricting Native Plants.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits homeowners associations (HOAs) from restricting residents'' ability to grow plants native to the state within their yards. HOAs serve as free-market alternatives to government zoning and land use standards, as individuals can choose the restrictiveness of the community they wish to join or select to live on property outside the governance of an HOA. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
HB 5395Senate 20241x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums Through New Mandates Concerning Clinical Criteria and Prior Authorization.

Against DEMs
This bill places several new regulations on private and public health insurance. Most notably, the bill prohibits insurers from setting their own clinical criteria and requires the use of accepted standards of care when deciding whether to cover a treatment. The bill also requires insurers to publicly post all treatments that require prior authorization, and prohibits prior authorization requirements for inpatient mental health treatment in hospitals. Additionally, step therapy is prohibited for state regulated private insurance, Medicaid (government-provided healthcare), and state group health plans.
HB 581Senate 20241x

Promoting Abortion by Declaring Abortion a "Stabilizing Treatment" that All Hospitals Must Provide.

Against DEMs
This bill codifies into law that abortions are a "stabilizing treatment" that doctors must offer in emergency situations, penalizing hospitals who fail to provide abortions as a stabilizing treatment. The bill provides the Department of Public Health the authority to investigate potential violations and issue fines of at least $50,000. ACI supports pro-life solutions that acknowledges life begins at conception, that individuals are created in the image of God, and have inherent dignity regardless of development or ability. Therefore, we oppose laws that support abortion, including the use of medical abortion drugs. ACI is committed to supporting a culture of life in the United States. We support policies and community solutions that ensure families do not feel forced to choose abortion due to financial hardship or lack of support. ACI supports returning abortion law to the states as a step towards ensuring unborn children receive legal protection under the Constitution.
SB 1Senate 20241x

Expanding Bureaucracy and Government Dependency by Establishing the Department of Early Childhood.

Against DEMs
This bill creates a new government bureaucracy for early childhood and preschool programs. Under the bill, the Department of Early Childhood will take over several programs, such as the Early Childhood Block Grant Program and the Child Care Assistance Program. The budget appropriates $14 million for startup costs for the department.
SB 1289Senate 20241x

Hindering Energy Production and Threatening Innovation Through an Overly Restrictive "Carbon Capture and Sequestration" Framework.

Against DEMs
This bill establishes a carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) regulatory framework and prohibits the use of CO2 from CCS projects for enhanced oil and gas recovery. Additionally, projects must demonstrate that they will not result in a new increase in "potential emissions" of the six pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act''s National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The bill also temporarily pauses the approval of new carbon pipelines until July 2026 or until new federal safety rules are established (whichever comes first), enforces project labor agreements, and requires CSS developers to obtain state permits that require ongoing safety monitoring and post-injecting site care for a minimum of 30 years. Finally, the bill introduces additional funds, including the Environmental Justice Grant Fund.
SB 1996Senate 20241x

Driving Up Employer Costs by Increasing Fees on Workers'' Compensation Insurance Premiums and Payments.

Against DEMs
This bill increases the surcharge on workers'' compensation insurance premiums, the workers'' compensation self-insurance fee, and the assessment on workers'' compensation payments. Raising these surcharges results in higher costs for businesses, which are forced to purchase coverage.
SB 2442Senate 20241x

Increasing Healthcare Costs by Restricting the Ability of Hospitals to Charge for Medical Services.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits hospitals from directly billing a patient who has a household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty line, which qualifies them for free care under the "Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act." Additionally, the bill requires hospitals to provide information to a patient about how to apply for public health insurance, or any other insurance product certified by the Department of Insurance, if they are deemed eligible. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. Growth of the welfare state disincentivizes employment and can lead to intergenerational poverty. ACI supports policies that reduce government dependency and help individuals live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
SB 251Senate 20241x

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through a $53 Billion Budget Chock with Countless Provisions that Further Grow the Size and Scope of Government.

Against DEMs
This bill implements a $53.074 billion budget for FY 2025, including significant spending that expands cronyism and increases government dependency. The bill includes $4.2 billion in funding for the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (a $160 million increase from prior year), which funds numerous grants to private businesses, workforce development and training, nonprofits, universities, and more crony programs. The budget also contains $2.68 billion in funding for higher education and $1 billion to support annualized Medicaid rate increases, as well as a $51.4 million increase in spending for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, $200 million to support universal preschool, and $440 million for immigrant healthcare. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government spending and the increasing national debt are a serious threat to America’s stability and is an unjust burden on future generations of Americans. The enormous national debt weakens the US economy and makes the country vulnerable to foreign adversaries such as China, which currently holds significant US debt. ACI strongly supports fiscal responsibility in government spending, reducing the size of the government, and overall spending cuts.
SB 2641Senate 20241x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating All Policies Include In-Network Hospital-Based Specialists.

Against DEMs
This bill mandates that every in-network hospital for health insurance providers to have at least one radiologist, pathologist, anesthesiologist, and emergency room physician as a preferred provider in a network plan. The bill additionally grants the Department of Insurance authority to require additional types of hospital-based medical specialists to be included as preferred providers in a network plan. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Life. Americans deserve a patient-centered healthcare system that empowers individuals to take control of their health decisions without onerous government regulations that drive up the cost of care. ACI supports healthcare policies that focus on protecting the unborn and vulnerable at all stage of life, while ensuring women and families have alternatives to abortion, better medical care, and ethical healthcare options.
SB 2672Senate 20241x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating Coverage of Brand Name Drugs During a Generic Drug Shortage.

Against DEMs
This bill requires that health insurance policies provide coverage for a brand name eligible prescription drug whenever a generic drug or a therapeutic equivalent is unavailable due to a supply issue and the dosage cannot be adjusted. Each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents an individual from selecting a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need.
SB 2689Senate 20241x

Combatting Teacher Shortages and Reducing Employment Barriers Through an Alternative Montessori Teacher Licensure Pathway.

With DEMs
This bill establishes a "Montessori education endorsement" that may be added to a Professional Educator License, making it easier for educators to become qualified to teach in Montessori schools. Under the bill, the State Board of Education is directed to establish the requirements for the endorsement. Support is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation of occupational licensing restricts employment opportunities and empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
SB 2702Senate 20241x

Restricting Job Opportunities by Restricting Fire Sprinkler Inspectors to Employment by a Single Contractor.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits a fire sprinkler inspector from being employed by multiple fire sprinkler contractors at a time or from being self-employed to perform inspector license duties. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
SB 2781Senate 20241x

Growing Unnecessary Spending Through Grants for Planting Native Vegetation.

Against DEMs
This bill creates a grant program to provide funding to localities to support projects restoring or expanding forests, wetlands, prairies, or other natural landscapes, and to provide education on, and market local projects. Additionally, the bill allows grant funding to support "any other purpose" approved by the Department of Natural Resources that advances the state''s goal to preserve natural landscapes.
SB 2876Senate 20241x

Expanding Government Overreach by Mandating Large Event Facilities Participate in Recycling and Composting.

Against DEMs
This bill requires event facilities with a capacity of 3,500 or more people to participate in recycling and composting. Violators of these provisions are fined $750-$1,500 for the first offense, and $1,500-$2,500 for each subsequent offense. The bill provides that a state attorney or municipal attorney may prosecute an owner or operator of an event facility who commits violations.
SB 2930Senate 20241x

Advancing Government Overreach by Requiring Non-Profits to Report Board Demographics.

Against DEMs
This bill requires non-profits who grant at least $1 million to other non-profits to annually report the demographic make-up of their board members and directors. Under the bill, demographic information to be collected includes race, ethnicity, gender, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The information must be available to the public on the organization''s website for a minimum of three years. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Faith. The US Constitution affords all people equal protection under the law, not extra protection. ACI opposes discriminatory policies that provide unequal rights or protections on the basis of identity politics.
SB 2933Senate 20241x

Growing Government Overreach by Prohibiting the Reporting of Medical Debt in Consumer Credit Reports.

Against DEMs
This bill prohibits a consumer reporting agency from creating a credit report containing any adverse information that the agency knows, or should know, relates to medical debt incurred by the consumer or a collection action against the consumer to collect medical debt. Additionally, the bill prohibits an agency from maintaining a file on any consumer containing information relating to medical debt. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Life. Americans deserve a patient-centered healthcare system that empowers individuals to take control of their health decisions without onerous government regulations that drive up the cost of care. ACI supports healthcare policies that focus on protecting the unborn and vulnerable at all stage of life, while ensuring women and families have alternatives to abortion, better medical care, and ethical healthcare options.
SB 2935Senate 20241x

Infringing Property Rights by Creating a "Right of First Refusal" in the Sale of Mobile Home Parks.

Against DEMs
This bill infringes property rights by providing a "right of first refusal" for residents of a mobile home park or a homeowner''s association when mobile home park owners offer a park for sale.
SB 2960Senate 20241x

Hiking Consumer Costs by Banning Single-Use Plastic Bottles in Hotels.

Against DEMs
This bill, the "Small Single-Use Plastic Bottle Act," prohibits hotels from providing single-use plastic bottles smaller than 6oz. containing products such as shampoo and soap. The act is effective on July 1, 2024 for hotels with 50 rooms or more, and January 1, 2026 for hotels with less than 50 rooms. The bill allows for hotels to provide single-use plastic bottles, upon request, in locations other than guest rooms or public bathrooms. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
SB 3077Senate 20241x

Expanding Cronyism by Providing Grants to Local Farms and Food Businesses for Equipment Enhancements.

Against DEMs
This bill, the "Local Food Infrastructure Grant Act," establishes a grant program to provide between $1,000 and $250,000 to farms and local food businesses through grants for purchases of machines used for food processing and distribution. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Tax breaks and crony programs expand government interference in the private market. ACI opposes cronyism that provides select individuals, businesses or industries with special benefits or carve outs at the expense of the rest of the population.
SB 3203Senate 20241x

Hiking Health Insurance Premiums by Imposing Price Controls on Inhaler Co-Payments.

Against DEMs
This bill imposes a $25 price control on out-of-pocket costs or copayments for a 30-day supply of prescription inhalers. The bill also requires that policies may not deny or limit coverage for prescription inhalers (instead of prescription inhalants) based upon any restriction on the number of days before an inhaler refill may be obtained if ordered by the treating physician. Under the bill, coverage for prescription inhalers also may not be subject to any deductible. Each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from having the ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Life. Americans deserve a patient-centered healthcare system that empowers individuals to take control of their health decisions without onerous government regulations that drive up the cost of care. ACI supports healthcare policies that focus on protecting the unborn and vulnerable at all stage of life, while ensuring women and families have alternatives to abortion, better medical care, and ethical healthcare options.
SB 3235Senate 20241x

Directing the Commission on Equity and Inclusion to Conduct a Study Primarily Designed to Increase Regulations on Financial Institutions.

Against DEMs
This bill requires the Commission on Equity and Inclusion to complete studies on disparities based on race and other "protected characteristics" in accessing financial products and services, lending, and investments. The budget appropriates $250,000 for the studies. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Faith. The US Constitution affords all people equal protection under the law, not extra protection. ACI opposes discriminatory policies that provide unequal rights or protections on the basis of identity politics.
SB 3268Senate 20241x

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending and Increasing Government Dependency by Expanding Medicaid Coverage Through Reimbursement Rate Increases.

Against DEMs
This bill expands Medicaid through various reimbursement rate increases for services from psychiatrists, dentists, dialysis providers, optometrists, and children''s health centers. The bill also permits reimbursements for family members who provide caregiving services to a medically complex child, as well as musical therapy services. Additionally, the bill imposes new reporting requirements onto pharmacy benefit managers to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).
SB 3297Senate 20241x

Increasing Government Dependency by Lowering the Minimum Age for Rental Subsidies to 18.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the age of eligibility for the "Housing is Recovery" bridge rental subsidy by lowering the minimum required age from 21 to 18 years old. The subsidy helps with monthly rent payments for individuals with serious mental illness or substance use disorders. Rental subsidies will merely bid up the market prices of existing rental units, thus worsening the state''s housing affordability crisis and likely leading to additional homelessness and government dependency. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. Growth of the welfare state disincentivizes employment and can lead to intergenerational poverty. ACI supports policies that reduce government dependency and help individuals live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
SB 3310Senate 20241x

Increasing Frivolous Litigation Against Employers by Extending the Deadline for Employment Discrimination Filings from 300 Days to Two Years.

Against DEMs
This bill extends the deadline for filing an administrative charge with the Illinois Department of Human Rights based upon employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, from 300 calendar days to two years after the date that a civil rights violation allegedly occurred. Employers are already incentivized to establish safe and productive work environments, and this government overreach unnecessarily exposes employers to additional frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs'' attorneys. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Frivolous litigation burdens individuals and businesses, while also driving up costs and worsening court backlogs.
SB 3362Senate 20241x

Driving Up Consumer Costs by Requiring Out-of-State Retailers to Collect Local Sales Taxes.

Against DEMs
This bill requires retailers that are shipping goods to Illinois from a location outside of Illinois to collect local sales tax based on the rate where the goods are shipped or delivered to. Under previous law, only "remote retailers" are required to collect and report local sales tax on sales shipped into Illinois. Other retailers, those having a physical nexus with Illinois, use origin sourcing and are typically required to only charge the state use tax rate of 6.25% and no local tax.
SB 3463Senate 20241x

Weakening Public Safety Through Automatic Expungement Hearings for Convicted Juveniles.

Against DEMs
This bill further expands the application of the state''s expungement law by mandating automatic expungement hearings for juveniles two years after their sentence has ended. The bill requires the court to notify the juvenile of the court date to expunge a qualified record automatically, however, the individual is not required to appear in court for the expungement. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Community. The Left has waged war on the law enforcement community in recent years. As a result, law enforcement entities nationwide have been severely diminished. Americans lack confidence in the justice system at both the federal and state and local level. ACI believes that public safety is best achieved through upholding the rule of law, support for strong law enforcement policies, and practical solutions that benefit communities.
SB 3481Senate 20241x

Advancing Government Overreach Through New Reporting and Registration Regulations for Battery Storage Facilities.

Against DEMs
This bill requires the registration of battery storage sites at which 5,000 kilograms or more of used batteries are stored. To quality, these sites must maintain records documenting the weight and volume of batteries coming in and out of the facility and must be an automotive parts recycler. The bill also requires the state Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promulgate rules and regulations for the operation of such battery storage sites within one year of these provisions going into effect.
SB 3597Senate 20241x

Advancing a Politicized Climate Change Agenda and Indebting Taxpayers by Allowing Localities to Incur Debt for Clean Energy Infrastructure.

Against DEMs
This bill, the "Climate Bank Loan Financing Act," allows localities to obtain a loan from the Illinois Finance Authority (IFA) Climate Bank to build, purchase, remodel, or improve clean energy infrastructure. The Climate Bank is a government agency that pursues federal taxpayer dollars to "combat climate change." The bill allows for localities to issue bonds (debt) to repay Climate Bank loans and requires levying a direct annual tax to pay for general obligation and revenue bonds. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government spending and the increasing national debt are a serious threat to America’s stability and is an unjust burden on future generations of Americans. The enormous national debt weakens the US economy and makes the country vulnerable to foreign adversaries such as China, which currently holds significant US debt. ACI strongly supports fiscal responsibility in government spending, reducing the size of the government, and overall spending cuts.
SB 3646Senate 20241x

Reducing Employment Opportunities for Minors by Expanding Restrictions and Imposing Excessive Penalties on Employers Under Child Labor Laws.

Against DEMs
This bill harms employment opportunities for minors by expanding restrictions and increasing penalties on employers who violate state regulations under the new Child Labor Act. The bill expands restrictions on industries, roles, and hours that minors can legally work, as well as requiring minors to possess an employment certificate authorizing them to work. Additionally, the bill establishes a Class A misdemeanor and increases civil penalties for violations under the act, ranging from $500 to $60,000 per violation. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Excessive government control stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and restricts individual liberty. Overregulation empowers government bureaucrats at the expense of free enterprise. ACI supports a limited government agenda that cuts unnecessary red tape, fosters competition, drives economic growth, and empowers individuals.
SB 3679Senate 20241x

Expanding Cronyism and Government Central Planning Powers by Creating "Business Improvement Districts" Which Can Impose Additional Fees on Property Owners.

Against DEMs
This bill authorizes localities to establish "Business Improvement Districts" if approved by property owners in the proposed district, who cumulatively are expected to pay more than 50% of the total amount of district charges. Property owners in these districts would be forced to pay additional fees for purposes of marketing, business assistance, beautification, and other projects within the district. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Lower rates of taxation spur investment, hiring and economic growth. The tax code should be structured in a simple and broadly applied manner with rates as low as possible for everyone. ACI opposes tax hikes and cronyism within the tax code that provides select individuals, businesses or industries with special benefits or carve outs at the expense of the rest of the population.
SB 3807Senate 20241x

Expanding Cronyism by Increasing Loans to Government-Favored Businesses Under the Build Illinois Act.

Against DEMs
This bill increases the amount of a loan that a small business owned by minorities, veterans, females, or individuals with a disability may receive under the "Build Illinois Act" from $400,000 to $2 million (or 50% of the business projects costs). The bill also provides that eligible projects include refinancing existing loans from a different lender. Oppose is the ACI position based on the cornerstone of Liberty. Tax breaks and crony programs expand government interference in the private market. ACI opposes cronyism that provides select individuals, businesses or industries with special benefits or carve outs at the expense of the rest of the population.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sen. Bill Cunningham's voting record?

Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-IL-18) earned a 2% National Democrat Platform score for 2024, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Bill Cunningham voted on 48 of the 48 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2024. Bill Cunningham represents the 18th District in the Illinois State Senate.

How aligned is Bill Cunningham with Democratic Party Platform principles?

Bill Cunningham earned a 2% National Democrat Platform score in 2024, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles.

What is Bill Cunningham's Dem Platform score?

Bill Cunningham has a 2% Dem Platform score for 2024.

Where does Bill Cunningham serve?

Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-IL-18) represents the 18th District in the Illinois State Senate as a Democrat.

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