Illinois Fire and Police Commissioners Association Legislative Corner

Bills in Committee this week

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 15:44:21 GMT

HOUSE POLICE & FIRE	Rep. Kelly: (217) 782-8189
Thu., Mar. 9, 2023, 8:00 AM, Room 115 Capitol Building

HB1595

EMS SYSTEMS-DISPUTE RESOLUTION (KELLY M) Amends the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act. Provides that specified Advisory Committees shall include one representative from the labor organization recognized as the exclusive representative of specified entities' employees. Provides that an EMS Medical Director may only suspend any EMS personnel, EMS Lead Instructor, individual, individual provider, or other participant considered not to be meeting the requirements of the Program Plan if the EMS Medical Director obtains agreement from the Department of Public Health. Allows arbitration meeting specified requirements as alternative dispute resolution procedures for EMS System licensing and makes conforming changes throughout the Act. Provides that a member of a fire department's or fire protection district's collective bargaining unit shall be eligible to work under a silver spanner program for another fire department EMS System that is not the full time employer of that member, for a period not to exceed 12 months, without being required to test into the EMS System of the fire department or fire protection district. Makes other changes.


HB1626	FIRE DIST-COMPETITIVE BIDDING (SWANSON D) Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Changes the requirement for competitive bidding for fire protection district contracts to contracts over $30,000 (currently, over $20,000).

HB2412

STATE POLICE-ORGANIZATION (HOFFMAN J) Amends the Illinois State Police Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Adds duties to various Divisions of the Illinois State Police. Amends the State Finance Act. Abolishes the State Police Streetgang-Related Crime Fund. Provides for, on the effective date of the amendatory Act, or as soon thereafter as practical, the transfer of the remaining balance from the State Police Streetgang-Related Crime Fund to the State Police Operations Assistance Fund. Amends the Intergovernmental Missing Child Recovery Act of 1984. Provides that the Illinois State Police's quality control program shall assess (rather than monitor) the timeliness of entries of missing children reports into LEADS and conduct performance audits of all entering agencies. Amends the School Code. Provides that, upon receipt of any written, electronic, or verbal report from any school personnel regarding a verified incident involving a firearm in a school or on school owned or leased property, including any conveyance owned, leased, or used by the school for the transport of students or school personnel, the local law enforcement authorities shall report all such firearm-related incidents occurring in a school or on school property to the Illinois State Police (rather than the superintendent or his or her designee reporting to the Illinois State Police) in a form, manner, and frequency as prescribed by the Illinois State Police. Amends the Sex Offender Registration Act. Provides for, on the effective date of the amendatory Act, or as soon thereafter as practical, the transfer of the remaining balance from the Sex Offender Investigation Fund to the Offender Registration Fund. Provides that upon completion of the transfers, the Sex Offender Investigation Fund is dissolved, and any future deposits into the Sex Offender Investigation Fund and any outstanding obligations or liabilities of the Sex Offender Investigation Fund pass to the Offender Registration Fund. Effective January 1, 2024, with some provisions concerning funds transfers effective immediately.

HB3115

POLICE DEPT PROMOTION ACT (SLAUGHTER J) Creates the Police Department Promotion Act. Requires municipal police departments and sheriff departments to make promotions in accordance with the Act. Requires the preparation and publishing of promotion lists. Sets components that may be included in the promotion process. Sets requirements for written examinations, the award of seniority points, the award of ascertained merit points, subjective evaluations, and the award of veterans' preferences. Sets penalties for violations of the Act. Limits the concurrent exercise of home rule powers. Contains other provisions. Amends the Counties Code and Illinois Municipal Code to make conforming changes. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

HB3620

POLICE TRAINING-ILETSB (REICK S) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that appointments to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, other than the ex officio members, shall be made by the Executive Director of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board from a list of nominees selected by a majority of votes of the President of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, the President of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the President of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, and the President of the Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge 7 (rather than the Governor). Makes conforming changes.

HB3724

LAW ENFORCEMENT-REST DAY (KELLY M) Amends the One Day Rest In Seven Act. Provides that in addition to the rest periods required under a specified provision of the Act, a law enforcement agency shall allow a law enforcement officer at least 24 consecutive hours of rest in either every consecutive 60-hour period or every calendar week, except while a disaster proclamation by the Governor is in effect.


HB3751	MUNI CD-POLICE APPLICANTS (HERNANDEZ B) Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that an individual who is not a citizen but is legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law is authorized to apply for the position of police officer, subject to all requirements and limitations, other than citizenship, to which other applicants are subject. Effective January 1, 2024.

HB3769

INS-FIREMEN'S CONTINUANCE (STUART K) Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. In provisions concerning firemen's continuance privilege, changes the definition of "fireman" and "firemen" to include any person who is not eligible to participate in a pension fund established under the Downstate Firefighter Article of the Illinois Pension Code and is employed on a full-time basis by a participating municipality or fire protection district to perform duties as a firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, emergency medical technician-basic, emergency medical technician-intermediate, or advanced emergency medical technician.

Additional bills:

HOUSE JUDICIARY - CRIMINAL	Rep. Slaughter: (217) 782-0010
Thu., Mar. 9, 2023, 12:00 PM, Room C-1 Stratton Building

HB1389

OBSTRUCT JUSTICE-BODY CAMERAS (HAAS J) Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Provides that a person also obstructs justice when, with intent to prevent the apprehension or obstruct the prosecution or defense of any person, he or she knowingly takes a body camera or any part of a body camera from a person known to be a peace officer. Provides that a violation, if the body camera or any part of the body camera is taken from the peace officer during the commission of an offense that has caused great bodily harm to the officer or another person, is a Class 1 felony. Provides that any other violation of this provision is a Class 2 felony.

HB1398

LABOR-PEACE OFFICER-RESIDENCY (KIFOWIT S) Amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. Specifies that among the conditions of employment that may be included in arbitration decisions involving peace officers are residency requirements for municipalities with a population under 1,000,000 (now, for municipalities with a population under 100,000). Specifies that residency requirements for municipalities with a population under 1,000,000 (now, for municipalities with a population under 100,000) are not a condition of employment that may be included in an arbitration decision for a peace officer. Effective immediately.

HB3145

POLICE TRAINING-OUT-OF-STATE (SLAUGHTER J) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that a training waiver from the Minimum Standards Basic Law Enforcement or County Correctional Training Course due to extensive prior law enforcement or county corrections experience shall be given whether or not the experience was obtained by employment by this State or any local governmental agency. Provides that, within 60 days after the effective date of the amendatory Act, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board shall adopt uniform rules providing for a training waiver process for a person previously employed and qualified as a law enforcement or county corrections officer under federal law or the laws of any other state. Requires the rules to provide that any person previously employed or qualified as a law enforcement or county corrections officer under federal law or the laws of any other state shall successfully complete the following prior to the approval of a waiver: (1) a training program approved by the Board on the laws of this State relevant to the duties of law enforcement and county correctional officers; and (2) firearms training. Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Grants the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board emergency rulemaking authority to implement the provisions of the amendatory Act.

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

Legislative Update

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:33:14 GMT

50 ILCS 705 - Illinois Police Training Act.
HB3619	CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS-FIREARMS (Reick, S) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Defines "retired law enforcement officer qualified under federal law" for purposes of the Act to permit the carrying of a concealed weapon. Amends the Criminal Code of 2012, the Unified Code of Corrections, and the County Jail Act. Permits currently employed and qualified retired State correctional officers and county correctional officers to carry their own firearms off-duty without being in violation of the unlawful use of weapons and aggravated unlawful use of weapons statutes if they meet certain training requirements. Provides that currently employed and qualified retired State correctional officers and county correctional officers shall carry a photographic identification and a valid annual firearm certificate while carrying their own firearms off-duty. Limited to correctional officers who have custody and control over inmates in an adult correctional facility. Repeals inconsistent provisions in Public Act 102-779. Effective immediately. Bill Version: As Introduced in the House ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/2;
HB3620	POLICE TRAINING-ILETSB (Reick, S) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that appointments to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, other than the ex officio members, shall be made by the Executive Director of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board from a list of nominees selected by a majority of votes of the President of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, the President of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the President of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, and the President of the Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge 7 (rather than the Governor). Makes conforming changes. Bill Version: As Introduced in the House ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/3;

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

IL Police Training Act

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 15:13:29 GMT

50 ILCS 705 - Illinois Police Training Act.

SB107

DRONES AS FIRST RESPONDERS (Holmes, L) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board may investigate complaints concerning drone use by a law enforcement agency. Provides that if a pattern of willful and wanton violations is confirmed, the law enforcement agency shall take actions to prevent future violations through specified means. Provides that if the agency fails to take actions to address the violations and prevent future violations from occurring, then the Board may restrict the agency's ability to use its drones for a period not to exceed 3 months per incident. Amends the Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act. Changes the name of the Act to the Drones as First Responders Act. Defines "permitted special event". Adds various exemptions allowing the use of drones. Permits records of drone usage, including flight path data, metadata, or telemetry information of specific flights, to be disclosed subject to the Freedom of Information Act and rules adopted under that Act. Provides that the information relating to infrastructure inspections conducted at the request of a local governmental agency may be disclosed to that local governmental agency or, in the case of traffic and parking evaluations conducted at school, it may also be disclosed to the school or any engineering staff involved in the process. Provides that nothing in the Act prevents the disclosure of information through a court order or subpoena in connection with a criminal proceeding or if the disclosure is in regard to a completed traffic crash investigation. Changes drone usage reporting requirements of law enforcement agencies to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Makes other changes, and amends the School Code to make conforming changes. Provides that a drone may not be used over a school unless the parents are notified by a principal or administrator prior to the use of the drone.
Bill Version: As Introduced in the Senate
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/8.5 new;

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Fire Marshal Adopted Rule-Requirements for the Participation and Certification of Fire Protection Personnel

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 23:21:54 GMT

FIREFIGHTERS
The OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL adopted amendments
to the Part now titled Requirements for the Participation
and Certification of Fire Protection Personnel (41 IAC 141; 46 Ill Reg
15078) effective 1/1/23, reflecting the current requirements, practices
and terminology of OSFM’s Division of Personnel Standards
and Education. The rulemaking changes the name of the Part
(formerly, Policy and Procedures Manual for Fire Protection
Personnel); updates National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
standards and editions incorporated in OSFM rules for
individual firefighter certification requirements; allows
computerized access to training records, testing, certifications,
training facility approvals and course approvals; eliminates
obsolete Sections and creates new Sections to align with the most
effective procedures and with statutory revisions; and
consolidates and revises claims reimbursement provisions. Those
affected by this rulemaking include local fire departments and fire
service personnel.

Questions/requests for copies:
Nancy Robinson, OSFM, 1035
Stevenson Drive, Springfield IL
62703, 217/ 785-7629, Fax: 217/
524-5487.

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Assault Weapons Ban Press Release

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 17:35:32 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, January 10, 2023

CONTACT
GovernorsOffice@illinois.gov

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation Banning Assault Weapons and Sale of High-Capacity Magazines

Illinois Becomes Ninth State to Institute Assault Weapons Ban

SPRINGFIELD – Standing alongside lawmakers and gun control activists, Governor Pritzker signed the Protect Illinois Communities Act banning the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in Illinois, effective immediately.

“For the past four years, my administration and my colleagues in the State Capitol have been battling the powerful forces of the NRA to enshrine the strongest and most effective gun violence legislation that we possibly can,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “I couldn’t be prouder to say that we got it done. And we will keep fighting — bill by bill, vote by vote, and protest by protest — to ensure that future generations only hear about massacres like Highland Park, Sandy Hook, and Uvalde in their textbooks.”

“Gun violence anywhere is a threat to wellbeing everywhere. In Illinois, lawmakers, advocates, and gun violence survivors stood together and worked for decisive, protective change,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.“Thank you, Governor Pritzker, for your steadfast leadership on this issue. Illinois is proud to do the work and to pass one of the strongest pieces of legislation in the country to make communities safer. Gun violence is not our normal, and it never will be.”

“From ending the sale of assault rifles to stopping the tidal wave of guns flooding into Illinois from surrounding states, the Protect Illinois Communities Act is one of the strongest gun safety laws in the nation,” said House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch. “This legislation is the culmination of months of negotiations between advocacy organizations, law enforcement, state leaders, and stakeholders from across the state. We know that gun violence is an epidemic and an overwhelming majority of Illinoisans agree that the time for common-sense reform is now. Delivering on this promise - the promise to remove these weapons of war from our parks, our schools, our movie theatres, churches, and communities throughout Illinois - will remain one of my proudest achievements as Speaker of the House.”

“I have spent my career working to protect people from the growing plague of gun violence that touches every corner of our state,” said Senate President Don Harmon.“This new law begins the pushback against weapons whose only intent is to eviscerate other human beings. I am proud to have worked on it and even prouder to see it signed into law.”

“Our state demanded firearm reform to reduce gun violence, and the legislature stepped up and delivered one of the strongest bills in the nation, one that can serve as a model for states,” said state Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield) “I thank Gov. Pritzker, Senate President Harmon, Speaker Welch, and the countless survivors and family members who sat with us, shared their stories, and refused to give up until they got the change we all needed.”

“Illinois joins other states with the strongest assault weapons ban in the nation sending the message that lives are valued over guns,” said state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford (D-Chicago). “Doctors, victims, advocates, and survivors sent a strong message and the General Assembly and the Governor took action.”

“Today, Illinois took a stand against the senseless barrage of gun violence that has plagued our state for far too long. The Protect Illinois Communities Act will undoubtedly save many lives and lead to safer streets, schools, and communities at large,” said state Rep. Maura Hirschauer (D-Batavia). “In honor of the lives lost and changed by gun violence, we must not grow complacent. Let today's legislative action be the first of many as we work to end gun violence once and for all.”

“This moment is the result of the dedication and leadership of hundreds of survivors, advocates and organizations that lent their voice to this fight to help enact what is now one of the strongest pieces of gun safety legislation in the country,” said Protect Illinois Communities Chair and President Becky Carroll. “We are ever grateful to Governor JB Pritzker for his unwavering commitment to this issue, and signing the Protect Illinois Communities Act into law, and to Speaker Chris Welch, Senate President Don Harmon, and Representative Bob Morgan for their leadership on making this historic day possible. We were fortunate to join forces with leading organizations here at home and from across the country, including Brady, Everytown, Giffords, Gun Violence Prevention PAC, and others, to take real action on preventing gun violence in our communities and saving lives.”

“This lifesaving package will go a long way toward getting assault weapons and high-capacity magazines off the streets, keeping guns away from people in crisis through red flag laws, and holding illegal gun traffickers accountable for taking advantage of weak laws in neighboring states,” said Everytown President John Feinblatt. “This victory was made possible by Illinois Moms Demand Action volunteers, who were a vocal presence in Springfield. Everytown is grateful to Governor Pritzker, Representative Morgan, Speaker Welch, President Harmon and their colleagues for honoring the victims and survivors of gun violence with action.”

“Today, Illinois took a major step in better protecting families and communities, and ensuring that tragedies such as Highland Park never happen again,” said Brady President Kris Brown. “We have the power to prevent these uniquely American tragedies, and a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines is a critical step towards that future. Our movement will continue until the sale of assault weapons is banned everywhere in the U.S. With this new law, the people of Illinois have shown why they are a leader of gun safety laws. Brady thanks Governor Pritzker, Representative Morgan, Speaker Welch, President Harmon, the entire legislature, GPAC and Protect Illinois Communities, as well as the countless advocates and survivors who persisted in getting this passed.”

“On July 4 in Highland Park, a day of celebration turned into a nightmare after a shooter opened fire on parade watchers, killing seven people and injuring 48. Assault weapons are built to kill and injure quickly and efficiently,” said Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. “Our communities deserve safety and security. I applaud Illinois leaders Representative Bob Morgan, Speaker Chris Welch, President Don Harmon, and Governor J.B. Pritzker for having the courage to act to remove these weapons of war from our streets.”

House Bill 5471 also caps sales of high-capacity ammunition magazines, bans “switches” that convert legal handguns into assault weapons, and extends the ability of courts to prevent dangerous individuals from possessing a gun through firearm restraining orders.

The new law also requires existing owners of semi-automatic rifles to register their ownership, ensuring that law enforcement knows the location of these weapons of war and who to hold accountable if they fall into the wrong hands.

Governor Pritzker has also signed legislation to ban unserialized, privately made “ghost guns,” the first Midwestern state to do so (HB 4383). In 2021, Governor Pritzker signed legislation expanding background checks on all gun sales in Illinois and modernizing and strengthening the Firearm Owners Identification Card System (HB 562). Additionally, Governor Pritzker signed legislation (SB 337) to combat the scourge of illegal gun trafficking, making Illinois the 16th state to require gun dealers to be certified by the state after more than a decade of work. Governor Pritzker's Reimagine Public Safety Act also established the first ever Office of Firearm Violence Prevention, providing a historic investment in community-based violence prevention for the communities most affected by firearm violence.

House Bill 5471 also codifies the Illinois State Police’s internet-based system for reporting stolen firearms and enhances security around certain gun transfers by requiring such exchanges taking place after July 1, 2023 to be filed with a federally licensed firearms dealer and extending the record-keeping time from 10 to 20 years.

This legislation is effective immediately.

Allison Anderson Richard

Legislative Consultant

Attorney at Law

Illinois Supreme Court halts implementation of cashless bail

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 17:02:05 GMT

Please see below article - the Illinois Supreme Court halts the implementation of the cashless bail provision of the SAFE-T Act.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-safe-t-act-appeal-process-20221231-rkvbnyzw3jd4tm72eyk2bf4bsu-story.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Breaking%20News&utm_content=861672528737

Allison Anderson Richard
Legislative Consultant

NEWS: Judge to Rule on SAFE-T Act Constitutionality Dec 28

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 18:38:25 GMT

Please below article - Judge to rule on SAFE-T Act constitutionality on December 28.

https://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/courts-police-fire/judge-to-rule-dec-28-on-whether-safe-t-act-will-take-effect/article_e237b955-7375-549f-bd7e-ae6882c834ae.html

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Governor Pritzker Signs SAFE-T Act Amendment

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:01:01 GMT

Please see below, Governor’s press release regarding signing the trailer bill to the SAFE-T Act.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 6, 2022

CONTACT
GovernorsOffice@illinois.gov

Governor Pritzker Signs SAFE-T Act Amendment

Trailer Bill Clarifies, Strengthens Original Bill as Transition to Cashless Bail Approaches

CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker today signed HB1095, a series of amendments and clarifications to the landmark SAFE-T Act, originally passed in 2021. The bill addresses misinformation related to the Act, including clarifying the detention net, expanding processes for transitioning to cashless bail on January 1st, and specifying definitions of willful flight and dangerousness, among other changes.

“I’m pleased that the General Assembly has passed clarifications that uphold the principle we fought to protect: to bring an end to a system where wealthy violent offenders can buy their way out of jail, while less fortunate nonviolent offenders wait in jail for trial,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Advocates and lawmakers came together and put in hours of work to strengthen and clarify this law, uphold our commitment to equity, and keep people safe.”

The bill clarifies multiple aspects of the SAFE-T Act, which ends the cash bail system in Illinois effective January 1st, 2023 and creates a more equitable system where pre-trial detention is based on community risk rather than financial means. The clarifications to the SAFE-T Act are the result of the work of a bi-cameral legislative group who collaborated with advocates, public defenders, state’s attorneys, victim advocates, and law enforcement officials.

Changes to the Act clarify court authority in controlling electronic monitoring and escape, outline specific guidelines for trespassing violations, and create a grant program to aid public defenders with increased caseloads. The amendments strengthen and clarify the main principle of the SAFE-T Act- to ensure that individuals who pose a risk to the community aren’t released from jail just because they are able to pay bail while people without financial means sit in jail regardless of whether they pose a risk at all.

“The SAFE-T Act, including these important clarifications, will help right the wrongs of policies that have disproportionately harmed low-income, marginalized communities while helping to keep Illinoisans safe," said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. "I commend members of the General Assembly for coming together to make these changes and provide us a clear path to ensure both accountability and justice. We must stop criminalizing poverty, and that is our goal as we end cash bail in Illinois and uphold human rights for all in our legal system."

“We understand that public safety is not a static issue,” said Deputy Majority Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria). “This legislation strengthens the underlying SAFE-T Act with valuable feedback from survivors, law enforcement, prosecutors and other public safety advocates. If we want to make our communities safer, we have to work together. This update is a step in the right direction.”

“It’s vital the pretrial system in Illinois remains equitable and that all individuals are treated fairly, regardless of financial status,” said State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign). “After collaboration between a diverse group, we were able to create a measure that ensures public safety and maintains the intent of the Pretrial Fairness Act. I am proud of everyone’s collaborative effort and their commitment to make Illinois safe.”

“The SAFE-T Act was the result of hours of testimony and negotiations with domestic violence advocates, proponents of reform, law enforcement and states attorneys at the table working to create a pathway to a better and more equitable criminal legal system,” said State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “However, due to the misinformation campaign led by opponents of the measure, we spent countless hours dispelling falsehoods and working to ensure that the law was not taken out of context. I thank the governor and my colleagues in both chambers for prioritizing a measure that clarifies the language of this transformational law while preserving the protections for crime survivors and ensures we stop criminalizing poverty in this state.”

“To say that I’m proud of all the work and advocacy that went into the passage of this act would be an understatement,” said State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago). “My colleagues and I, with input from the Coalition to End Money Bond, the States Attorneys Association, the Sheriff’s Association and survivor advocates, were able to create something that will change lives and reform the criminal justice system for the better. This is our generation carrying the torch for civil and human rights, and Illinois will only become safer and more equitable because of it.”

“This legislation builds on the foundation we set in the SAFE-T Act by making certain that provisions are clearer, more effective, and less difficult to implement,” Representative Eva-Dina Delgado (D-Chicago) said.“Institutional barriers within the criminal justice system have disproportionately affect people in the communities that I represent and this legislation addresses that disparity. I am so proud of the work that my colleagues, stakeholders and I did to engage and collaborate to bring forth this bill.”

“This measure is part of a continued effort to address misconceptions and sincere concerns brought forward by law enforcement, survivors and advocates,” said Rep. Dave Vella (D-Rockford). “It’s a reminder of the need to work together, and of our shared mission to make every community safer for families across our state.”

"This is the result of hundreds of hours and a collaboration of all stakeholders to clarify and strengthen the language from the previous legislation. It's been an honor to serve my constituents as part of the Public Safety Working Group and create common sense policy solutions that will improve the safety of our communities and the integrity of our justice system," said Assistant Majority Leader Natalie Manley (D-Joliet). "This is a tremendous step toward a safer, fairer Illinois for all."

“By strengthening the SAFE-T Act, we are continuing the vital work of keeping Illinoisans safe,” said Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago). “Maintaining a robust justice system will always be an ongoing task, one that we prioritize. Hundreds of hours of consultation with stakeholders from across the ideological spectrum went into producing this bill, which maintains the historic reforms of the SAFE-T Act while ensuring a successful implementation of new policy.”

“The SAFE-T Act was carefully crafted to promote a more equitable criminal justice system while simultaneously keeping our communities safe across Illinois. This legislation takes steps to ensure the SAFE-T reforms are carried out successfully,” said Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview). “Our goal was to reinforce the principles we were proud to pass with the SAFE-T Act, which replaces a wealth-based pretrial detention system with one based on a person's threat to the community. This legislation protects those goals.”

"When we passed the original SAFE-T Act, we did so with the understanding that more work would need to be done to implement these historic reforms. This legislation keeps that promise," said Rep. Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago)."This legislation clarifies and strengthens the law, reflecting the input and agreement of law enforcement, survivor advocates, and reformers. The work of building a fairer justice system continues, and I am grateful for the partnership of my colleagues in the House Public Safety Working Group, our Senate colleagues, and Governor Pritzker.”

Allison Anderson Richard

Legislative Consultant

Update: Firearm Safety Bill

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 16:38:01 GMT

Representative Bob Morgan, the chair of the Democrats firearm safety and reform working group filed the Protect Illinois Communities Act (HB 5855, see attached). The Bill bans assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines among others.

10200HB5855lv.pdf

Safety Act Trailer Bill

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 16:23:11 GMT

Below is a link to the Safety Act Trailer bill. These changes are mostly technical or clean up in nature.

It addresses concerns around trespassing, pretrail releases, and current inmates.

https://ilga.gov/legislation/102/HB/PDF/10200HB1095sam001.pdf

-Taylor Anderson

New IL GA Minority Leaders

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:25:08 GMT

New GOP Leadership – 11.2022

Last night, both Republican legislative caucus’s elected new leaders: Rep. Tony McCombie in the House and Sen. John Curran in the Senate. Please see below for bios of each.

Tony McCombie

In a 31-8 vote at a caucus meeting last night, House Republicans selected Rep. Tony McCombie to be their new leader.

McCombie will be the first female legislative leader in the House in state history.

McCombie (R-Savanna) represents a northwestern Illinois district that runs along the Wisconsin and Iowa borders.

First elected in 2016 after she defeated a Democratic incumbent, the next session of the ILGA will be her fourth term.

McCombie previously considered running for the leadership position last cycle against outgoing leader Jim Durkin but ultimately chose not to.

McCombie is an opinionated, conservative legislator who has never shied away from her beliefs in House floor debates. She is passionate about many issues including law enforcement and criminal justice.

Born and raised in Savanna, Illinois, McCombie received a BA from Western Illinois University. She is currently a small businesswoman, operating Blue Appraisals and self-employed in the real estate industry as a broker with MelFoster Company.

Formerly served as the Mayor of Savanna, IL and as a Savanna Councilwoman.

John Curran

John Curran, R-Downers Grove, will be the Senate Minority Leader.

First appointed in July 2017, Curran’s 41^st Senate District includes western suburban areas like Downers Grove, Homer Glen, and Darien in parts of Cook, DuPage, and Will Counties.

Curran is a former Vice-Chairman of the DuPage County Board and longtime prosecutor in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Prior to the General Assembly, he served as the Vice-Chairman of the DuPage County Board, and was a board member from 2008 to 2017. Following 19 years working as an Assistant State's Attorney in the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, Curran now works as an attorney at a private law firm in Oak Brook.

He received his Juris Doctor Degree from Northern Illinois University College of Law and Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Curran and his wife, Sue, have four daughters and live in Downers Grove.

Media:

McCombie:

Illinois House Republicans Select Rep. Tony McCombie as New Leader – NBC Chicago, November 2022

After Rep. Jim Durkin announced that he would step down as the leader of the Illinois House Republicans, the party has chosen its new chair, tapping Rep. Tony McCombie for the position. McCombie, who will represent the 89th district in the new General Assembly, was one of the early favorites to ascend to the position, according to Politico, and she was voted into the office during a caucus meeting on Tuesday. “The House Republican Caucus is focused on helping Illinois families by offering common sense solutions to the many problems our state faces,” she said in a statement. “We will be a unified force that will grow our party by sticking to our core values and ending the corruption that has pervaded state government.”

GOP chooses new leadership in General Assembly as Dems retain control – Capitol News Illinois, November 2022

publicans chose new leadership for their caucuses in the Illinois General Assembly on Tuesday night, while the two Democratic leaders have each announced they have the votes to maintain their positions. House Republicans elected Tony McCombie of Savanna and Senate Republicans chose John Curran of Downers Grove. The change in leadership comes after Democrats maintained control of every statewide office and had strong gains in last week’s elections across the rest of state government, aside from in the state Senate.

Illinois Democrats unveil 'pro-law enforcement' package amid Republican criticism – State Journal-Register, April 2022

Republicans on Monday criticized the package, mostly because it failed to address their grievances with the broader criminal reform package passed last year, the Illinois Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today (SAFE-T) Act. Rep. Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, attacked the package on the House floor Monday, asking questions about whether the package contains any provisions to strengthen electronic monitoring, gives judges guidelines about issuing warrants for certain types of criminals or unwinds the reforms to cash bail that were part of last year's criminal justice reform bill. “Not one of these bills that Representative Vella posed today, not one, addresses any of these issues,” McCombie said on the House floor Monday. McCombie received a round of applause from her Republican colleagues for her comments.

Illinois House of Representatives reopens to the public, masks still required – State Journal-Register, March 2022

Masks were the subject of heated debate in the House earlier this month. Several Republican lawmakers were removed from the House floor on Feb. 17 for refusing to put on a mask. Most of them continued to participate via Zoom. The House voted to remove nine members, though one, Rep. Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, stayed in the chamber for the rest of the day. On Tuesday, the defiance continued and the House voted to remove three Republican lawmakers: Reps. Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City, Adam Niemerg, R-Dieterich, and Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur.

Lawmakers Mull Restoring Death Penalty To Deter Crime, But Critics Call It A ‘Proven Failure’ – Block Club Chicago, February 2022

In the wake of recent deaths of first responders in the line of duty, Illinois Republicans are pushing to reinstate the death penalty as a way to toughen punishment for people who intentionally kill police officers, firefighters or other public workers. Several Republican lawmakers have filed bills that would make the death penalty a possible sentence for people convicted in the first-degree murder of police officers, firefighters or case workers at the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). They argue partially reversing Illinois’ 2011 abolition of the death penalty could be a deterrent to stop people from killing first responders.

Curran:

IL Sen. John Curran unanimously selected Senate GOP Leader – WGN, November 15, 2022llinois Senator John Curran (R-41st District) was selected as the new Senate Republican Leader on Tuesday.

The vote was unanimous. “I am humbled and honored to have the full support of my Senate Republican colleagues to serve as their new leader in the 103rd General Assembly,” Curran said. “We stand ready, with our focus directed toward the future, on developing solutions that will address the critical issues facing our state. We are equally dedicated to growing our ranks, which will give all Illinoisans greater representation and balance in their state government.”

State Senator John Curran: The SAFE-T Act does not maintain public safety – State Journal-Register, September 2022

Bipartisan committee rejects emergency mask rule for Illinois schools – WGN, February 2022

The top committee of Illinois state lawmakers rejected an attempt to refile the Department of Public Health’s COVID-19 emergency rules for schools Tuesday afternoon. “To me, it’s an irresponsible action of government to just essentially thumb your nose at another branch of government that has properly ruled,” said Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove). Curran said IDPH could’ve presented a rule giving due process rights to staff and parents who object to COVID-19 mitigations in schools.

Op-ed: To keep Chicago safe, law and order must be restored – Chicago Tribune, October 2021

Note: Joint Op-Ed by Durkin and Curran.

With the dramatic rise in violent crime across Chicago, it is expected that we will continue to see Illinois Democrats try to paint a new reality of the harm they have done to citizens across our state. The leading criminal justice “reform” Democrats in Springfield are now trying to characterize their attempts to “defund police,” not as the cause of our current problems, but as the solution to the mess they created.

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker, Bailey Debate

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:42:07 GMT

Thursday evening Illinois State University hosted the first gubernatorial candidate debate between incumbent Gov J.B. Pritzker and State Sen Darren; the two candidates did, however, previously participate in a forum with the IL Associated Press Media Editors Association and the IL Agricultural Legislative Roundtable.

At the forefront of the debate were the pressing topics of crime and public safety. The candidates also discussed property taxes, inflation, infrastructure, abortion, education, and other issues impacting Illinoisians.

Pritzker argued that he, in coordination with the Democratic party, made significant strides in addressing public safety concerns, specifically noting the SAFE-T Act provisions that are set to take effect Jan. 1, 2023, as compared those across the aisle.

Pritzker accused Bailey and Republicans of “standing up for [a criminal justice system that] is one that allows murderers and rapists and domestic abusers to buy their way out of jail.”

Pritzker went on to argue that “[i]f you want to reduce crime, you got to solve crime, you got to do what I've done, which is to increase the number of state police, build state-of-the-art crime labs, make sure that we're funding violence prevention and youth summer jobs programs, and of course, funding mental health and substance abuse treatment,”

Bailey countered Pritzker’s assertions and argued that the SAFE-T Act has several issues a result of a rushed process that did not include sufficient input from all within the criminal justice community. Bailey specifically highlighted opposition from states attorneys throughout the state and his support from the police. He also indicated that he would have supported bail reform for nonviolent criminals but believes the SAFE-T Act should be repealed in its entirety, because of the “revolving door” system it creates for the accused to avoid pretrial detention.

Bailey also maintained that “we have everything we need within our laws and our agencies.” Referencing that he does not believe additional lawmaking is necessary; and would instead reprioritize allocations in the budget. He blamed Pritzker’s budgetary decisions for the state’s loss of large employers like Caterpillar and Tyson Foods.

Pritzker pointed to four consecutive balanced budgets, improved credit rating and financial standing for the state, and emphasized the important tax relief that came for families, property owners and consumers across the state. He went on to point out that while some companies have left the state, others, like Amazon, are making Illinois home. Pritzker also pointed to the growing number of small businesses.

When discussing abortion legislation, Bailey indicated that “nothing is going to change” when he is governor and that his focus will be on crime, taxes and education.

Pritzker, however, would continue to protect the state’s current laws that allow women access to safe abortions and reproductive health care. He also highlighted signing the Reproductive Health Act into law in 2019 and warned that should Bailey take office this law could be in danger.

On the topic of education, Pritzker referenced the “statewide brain drain” and his successful efforts to keep Illinois students in state for higher education, using the increase in MAP grants as one example.

Bailey denounced the quality of education students in Illinois receive.

“[As governor,] I’ll fire up the entire state board of education and Dr. Carmen Ayala. I'll make sure that we have local control. I'll make sure that my parents’ voices are heard. I'll fully fund schools on time every year and that will include instruction on trades and vocational skills. I will get rid of [critical race theory]. I'll get rid of the egregious gender curriculum that J.B. Pritzker has put in our schools. Unlike Governor Pritzker, I'll keep the schools open and I'll make sure that parents have choice,” he said.

Bailey closed the debate by calling Pritzker “dangerous.”

“Friends, we're being crushed by property taxes, crime. We're being crushed by failed education. It's all because J.B. Pritzker is hell-bent on becoming the most radical leftist governor in America. I know that I may seem a little different than some of you. I’ve got to downstate twang and sometimes I get a little too passionate about what's going on in this state. But this man is dangerous,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Pritzker defended his first term.

“I'm proud of what we've achieved over the last four years. We balanced the budget. We paid off all our state's overdue bills. We got six credit upgrades and provided $1.8 billion in gas grocery and property tax relief. We raised the minimum wage, protected a woman's right to choose, legalized cannabis, and got the biggest infrastructure bill passed in the history of the state of Illinois. I look forward to getting even more big things done for the people of our state,” Pritzker said.

The second and final broadcast debate will be at 7 p.m. on Oct. 18 at WGN-TV’s studios in Chicago.

Allison Anderson Richard

Legislative Consultant

JCAR ADOPTED RULES -POLICE CAMERAS

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:32:56 GMT

The following is the recent Adopted JCAR Rule on Police Cameras:

POLICE CAMERAS

The LAW ENFORCEMENT

TRAINING STANDARDS BOARD repealed the Part titled Surcharge Fund Financial Assistance (20 IAC 1700; 46 Ill Reg 6196) and adopted a new Part titled Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act (20 IAC 1705; 46 Ill Reg 6202), both effective 6/23/22, revising its rules for grants to law enforcement agencies to purchase in-car and body cameras and train officers in

their use. The new Part includes criteria for eligibility, a description of the application process,

procedures that LETSB will follow in awarding grants, and conditions for complying with the grant program. Agencies applying for grants must be registered in the State’s Grantee Portal, be qualified under the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act, comply with statutory reporting requirements for in-car and body cameras, and have all officers in the agency compliant with LETSB training requirements. Grant funding may be sought for anticipated camera purchases or to cover the cost of purchases already completed. Factors that

LETSB will consider in awarding grants include the size of the police department and the number of cameras already available; the crime rate and household income

of the community; the number of traffic accidents, including the number of alcohol and drug related accidents, in the community; and whether or not an applying municipality received

revenue from red-light or speed enforcement cameras in the previous 3 years. Model policies

for utilizing the awarded cameras are also included in the new Part. Municipal, county and university law enforcement agencies seeking camera grants are affected by these rulemakings.

Questions/requests for copies of the 2 LETSB rulemakings:

John R. Keigher, Illinois Law

Enforcement Training Standards

Board, 4500 S. 6th Street Road,

Springfield, IL 62704, 217/782-

4540.

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

PA 102-0982

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 18:27:51 GMT

50 ILCS 705 - Illinois Police Training Act.

HB5496

WORD CHANGE: ACCIDENT TO CRASH (Weber, T) Amends various Acts by replacing the term "accident", in relation to automobiles, motor vehicles, and traffic accidents, with the term "crash". Provides that a State agency may exhaust any forms or documents using "accident" prior to printing copies of a new version using "crash". Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/7;

To see the Public Act go up to the Bill Version: Public Act and tap Public Act.

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker Signs Pension Buyout Program Extension Legislation

Thu, 05 May 2022 23:31:42 GMT

Today (Thursday), Gov. Pritzker signed legislation extending the pension buyout program. The legislation is intended to create additional options for state retirees as well as reduce the state’s liabilities.

By signing HB4292 (Morgan), the pension buyout program is extended through June 30, 2026 with $1 billion available for buyouts. Proponents of the bill have indicated that it will allow retirees to receive payments at a faster rate while simul reducing their annual cost of living adjustments, thereby allowing retirees to access their pension funds sooner than expected. Prior to Hb4292, the program was scheduled to conclude in 2024.

Notably, Senate sponsor of the bill Sen. Robert Martwick (D-Chicago) publicly thanked Rep. Mark Batinick (R-Plainfield) for his cooperation and bipartisan approach to working on the bill with him. Rep. Batinick has announced he will be retiring at the end of the 102nd General Assembly.

Please see below Press Release issued by Gov Pritzker.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 5, 2022

CONTACT
GovernorsOffice@illinois.gov

Governor Pritzker Lowers Pension Liabilities Through Extended Buyout Opportunities, Additional Payments

The extended buyout option will result in further liability reduction and interest savings for taxpayers

Springfield—Governor JB Pritzker today signed House Bill 4292 into law, extending the pension buyout option for state employees to 2026. The bill authorizes $1 billion in additional general obligation bond funding to extend the buyout program. This action was another important step in the Governor’s mission to ensure fiscal responsibility and reduce overall liability costs placed on taxpayers and follows the inclusion of an additional $500 million contribution to the retirement systems above certified amounts across FY2022 and FY2023.

“Responsible fiscal management means taking every action possible to address our pension obligations while honoring promises made to current and retired workers – promises made by governors and legislators on both sides of the aisle,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The expansion of this bipartisan pension buyout program builds on Democrats’ work this session to save taxpayers nearly $2 billion in pension liabilities by paying down our pension debt in advance.”

"The COLA buyout program is a win-win for the state's finances and our retirees," said State Representative Bob Morgan (D-Highwood). "I'm proud of this bipartisan effort that frees up nearly $100 million in our Budget annually to address much-needed investments in education and human services."

“I’m happy to see this bipartisan solution to address our state’s pension liability is being extended,” said Representative Mark Batinick (R-Oswego). “I have been working on this plan for years and am pleased to see it has been effective for our state. This is one of the ideas I am most proud of and it’s great that it will continue to help Illinoisans further into the future.”

“When legislators of both parties can come together on a plan to save taxpayers money by reducing the state’s pension shortfall, this is an occasion to celebrate,” said Illinois State Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza. “This is yet another example – along with a billion dollars for the Rainy Day Fund and half-a-billion in additional pension payments – that show Illinois is saving, not spending, and earning credit upgrades.”

“The savings generated by the pension buyout program is big point of pride for me,” said Illinois Senator Robert Martwick (D-Chicago). “When this idea was formed by myself and Rep. Batinick, we put aside our different ideas on partisan issues, and worked together to find a bi-partisan solution for the state’s most persistent and crippling financial problem. When Democrats and Republicans work together on these core financial issues, every Illinoisan benefits.”

“This bill is part of a commonsense solution to help us meet our pension obligations and reduce our unfunded liability, and I'm glad to see it signed into law today. I hope Illinoisans see this as another sign that we are putting our state back on the path of fiscal responsibility and making real progress for our residents." -State Representative Margaret Croke (D-Chicago).

“By providing an additional $1 billion of State Pension Obligation Acceleration Bonds, we’re reducing long-term pension liabilities and furthering our state’s commitment to fiscal responsibility,” said State Representative Sue Scherer (D-Decatur). “This is an important piece of legislation that not only benefits the state, but also benefits state employees who have more of an opportunity to receive accelerated pension benefits.”

State employees will now have the opportunity to opt for a pension buyout for an additional two years, through June 30, 2026. $1 billion in bond authorization was approved to fund these buyouts. Previously the buyouts were offered only through June of 2024.

Governor Pritzker’s FY2023 budget authorized an extra $500 million payment to the state pension fund beyond the required annual contribution to reduce overall pension liabilities. The additional payment will save taxpayers an estimated $1.8 billion.

During Governor Pritzker’s time in office, the state of Illinois has received three credit rating upgrades after two decades of stagnation and decline. Credit agencies have credited the upgrades to Governor Pritzker’s administration’s efforts towards reducing debt, managing pension contributions, and monitoring long-term liability burden.

The bipartisan expansion of the buyout option honors the commitments made to state employees while giving them the flexibility to spend pension dollars when needed. State employees, downstate teachers, and university employees who meet certain eligibility requirements at retirement may opt for an accelerated pension benefit payment in exchange for forfeiting a portion of future cost-of-living increases on retirement benefits. Over 4,500 state and university employees and teachers have already opted for the buyout.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

Budget Agreement Reached by Democrats

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:17:29 GMT

Today, Illinois Democratic leaders have reached a deal on the FY23 budget, which will include $1.83 billion in largely temporary tax relief, $1 billion for the state’s rainy-day fund, and an additional $200 million in payments for pension obligations. Click HERE for the proposed agreed FY23 budget outline. The press release is silent on the matter of the Local Government Distributive Fund.

A joint press conference was held this afternoon. Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), and House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) detailed their agreement, which includes many of the provisions proposed by both the House and Senate earlier this week.

“Over the last few weeks, and especially over the last 48 hours, we engaged in a true give-and-take, which led to genuine compromise. It honestly helped that we all came into this process, committed to a fiscally responsible spending plan that improved our state's finances and help our people in an hour of genuine need. I'm not sure how far back in Illinois contentious budget making history you would have to go to find a process and a product quite as good as this one,” Pritzker said.

The final budget bill will include the following:

- A one year suspension of the sales tax on groceries.

- A six-month freeze on the motor fuel tax.

- A $300 property tax rebate for homeowners.

- A permanent expansion of the earned income tax credit.

- Income tax rebates amounting to $50 per individual and $100 per dependents (up to $300).

- A back-to-school sales tax holiday amounting to $50 million in taxpayer savings.

“This is a great budget that reflects the needs and priorities of the people of this great state. We've gone through some unique times and together the last couple of years. It's perhaps fitting that we have a unique budget. That is the result of working together like never before,” said Harmon.

Welch said that he hopes for Republican support of the bill.

“It's totally up to them. But they have certainly been a part of a very accessible and transparent process that has taken place and we're proud of where we are and where we're going to continue to go,” Welch said.

A bill number has not yet been assigned but Harmon said he expects the bill to be passed Friday. We are expecting it to be HB 900 but will report it as soon as it is announced.

In response to the budget announcement Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie released the following statement:

“What is most unfortunate about the Democrats’ budget plan is we have an opportunity right now to provide permanent tax relief for the people of Illinois, yet instead, the Democrats are choosing to provide one-time checks and other temporary relief just before the election which expires right after the election. Additionally, we are significantly increasing government spending. Evidently, they think they know how to better spend your money better than you do.”

Taylor Anderson

NEWS UPDATE: Democrats Push Legislation Supporting Law Enforcement Officers

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 14:24:08 GMT

At a press conference Monday, Democrats spoke about how law enforcement officers are too often incentivized to retire rather than stay on the force and train new recruits.

They’re proposing legislation that would keep older, more experienced officers on the team, both building relationships with the communities they serve and helping new officers start their careers.

HB1568 (Vella) is legislation that came out of the General Assembly’s public safety working group that would both incentivize police training at Illinois community colleges, but also help retain talent that can pass their experience onto younger officers, helping alleviate the “brain drain” that many departments are facing.

“We don't want people to leave, we want them to stay with all the new people who'll be coming in, through our community colleges. We don't want a brain drain. We want officers to stay and train these young officers,” said Rep. Dave Vella (D-Loves Park).

HB4228 (Hoffman) would require that sheriff salaries be at least equal to 80 percent of county state’s attorney salaries. Sponsors said that there are too often vast discrepancies between law enforcement and professional pay in parts of the state.

“Every minute of every day, policemen and women work to protect us. They catch criminals, they break down their networks, and ensure justice is served against those who violate the law. And they continue to keep order in our communities. It's the job they signed up for,” said Sen. Rachelle Crowe (D-Maryville).

HB3893 (Lilly) would “extend a sunset date to allow investigators to continue recording conversations for qualified sex or drug offenses from January 1 to 2023 until January 1 2027,” according to Sen. Scott Bennett (D-Champaign). HB4608 (Delgado) “would allow for video retention for evidentiary value and allow grant funds to be used for data storage costs.” HB4364 (Tarver) would allow the Illinois Department of Human Services to provide grant funding to county jail programs to help address substance abuse among the incarcerated.

“There are very few jobs that take such a heavy toll on one's mental health than being a first responder. Add to it a really significant stigma overall that we are dealing with in this country related to mental health, and I would say that that stigma is even more intense when it comes to first responders and law enforcement,” said Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago).

HB1321 (LaPointe) would create a grant program to help support behavioral health services to first responders like police and EMS workers.

“Mental health has to continue to be a priority for everyone in Illinois, but particularly for first responders who have faced barriers over the years. It has to continue to be a priority. We've overlooked this for too long. At this critical moment, if we give it the attention it deserves, I know that we can help officers, firefighters, and law enforcement officers all around the state achieve a much higher quality of life,” LaPointe said.

Jim Kaitschuk, executive director of the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, said he supported the democrats’ proposals.

“Our statewide average for vacancies right now is approximately 20%. This includes dispatchers, correctional officers, deputies, officers and sheriffs. This past year alone we've lost 18 sheriffs. Demands and expectations on law enforcement continued to increase. Unfortunately, the funding to support these new demands has not always coincided with those new responsibilities. These proposals will certainly assist us in recognizing the importance of the roles and provide them with some much needed support,” he said.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

Three Republicans Walk-Out as Leaders Urge Civility in House Mask Controversy

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:52:11 GMT

Three Republicans Walk-Out as Leaders Urge Civility in House Mask Controversy

Just three Republican members were escorted out of the Illinois House of Representatives chambers Tuesday afternoon after refusing to follow House rules requiring masks be worn for COVID-19 safety.

Reps. Blaine Wilhour (R-Effingham), Adam Niemerg (R-Teutopolis), and Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) continued a protest against the rule that began last week, when 9 members protested masking while in the chamber and were asked to leave and/or participate remotely.

At the beginning of Tuesday’s session, Reps. Lakesia Collins (D-Springfield) and Steve Reick (R-Woodstock) both apologized for their on-floor arguments on Thursday Feb. 17 that spilled into a tense interaction between two following session.

Earlier Tuesday, House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) and Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) met privately to discuss the conflict. Both encouraged civility and restraint in remarks on the floor Tuesday.

“Last week I made a statement on the floor about how we need to take the temperature down. And as I process what happened with Representative Reick and Collins, I stand by what I said. Sometimes we forget that we represent 13 million Illinoisans. They look up to us. They want us to solve problems that they have, their family has, … When I think about that, I think that we have much more in common than you really think. We all have different backgrounds, we were raised differently in different parts of the state. We have different vocations, but at the end of the day, I know full well one thing that is the most important thing is that we all love the state of Illinois. That’s why we’re here,” Durkin said.

“With the statements that you’ve already heard from Leader Durkin, Rep. Collins and Rep. Reick, I think it’s clear we want to put all of this behind us and get serious about the work ahead of us these next seven weeks. I think it’s also important to note that as leader Durkin mentioned last week, it was very clear when he said this. The rules are the rules. Those rules are in place for a reason. You may not agree with them in your life outside of this chamber. But these rules were approved by a majority of this chamber. They’re the house rules adopted by us, consistent of our powers granted in the state constitution. We should follow the rules and lead by example,” Welch said.

“We have a few weeks left here. We can’t afford a COVID 19 outbreak amongst ourselves and our staff. More importantly, we have colleagues in this body who have children or family members who are immunocompromised. Let’s do our part to make sure we can all go home see to see our loved ones.”

Pritzker Endorses Anna Valencia for Secretary of State

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday threw his support behind Secretary of State candidate Anna Valencia.

Valencia, the current City Clerk of Chicago, has also been endorsed by outgoing Secretary of State Jesse White, as well as U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth.

“I am proud to join Jesse White and Senators Durbin and Duckworth and many others in endorsing Anna Valencia for Secretary of State. Anna is a capable leader with a proven record of success, and she represents the bright future of the Democratic party. In this Democratic primary for Secretary of State we are lucky to have three capable candidates. However, I believe Anna is the best choice. I am thrilled to support her history-making candidacy to be the first woman and first Latina to serve as Illinois Secretary of State,” Pritzker said in a statement.

“I am grateful for Governor Pritzker’s endorsement, which adds to the growing momentum around our campaign,” Valencia said in a statement. “Governor Pritzker has fought for working families like the one I grew up in, advocated for our women and girls, helped me reform our fines and fees system and notched big wins in Springfield that are making a difference in the lives of Illinoisans. I look forward to joining the Governor on the ballot this fall, rallying our diverse coalition of voters and partnering with him as Secretary of State to fight for all Illinoisans.”

Valencia will face former Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias in the June primary for the Democratic nomination. Giannoulias still holds a significant fundraising lead over Valencia.

DeVore Announces Run for Attorney General

The downstate Illinois attorney spearheading many of the legal challenges to the state’s COVID-19 safety measures announced a run for Attorney General Tuesday.

Tom DeVore, who most recently won the decision overturning Gov. J.B. Pritzker requirement that masks be worn in schools, has represented several Republican legislators in their efforts to overturn COVID-19 safety mitigations including Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Louisville) and Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Effingham).

DeVore announced his intent to run in a video livestream on his Facebook page, saying he was reluctant to run.

“I’m one of the most non-political people that most of my friends have ever met. I don’t care for politics for much. I don’t like politicians. …. I have no desire to be a politician,” DeVore said. “I have always just wanted to help people.”

“For nearly two years, Tom DeVore has used the pandemic as his personal publicity tour, filing countless absurd and frivolous lawsuits in an attempt to grab headlines, enrich himself, and undermine our state’s public health apparatus. Now, DeVore wants to take his circus act statewide, running for Attorney General in a pathetic gambit to extend his 15 minutes of fame and further gin up his followers against the local leaders who are working to protect the public. Sadly, the Illinois Republican Party has seemingly abandoned any shred of decency, inviting extremists like DeVore to the forefront. Illinois voters want sensible, honest, reasonable leadership from their elected officials, and there is no better example than Kwame Raoul,” Democratic Party of Illinois Executive Director Abby Witt responded in a statement.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Republicans Repeat Calls from Criminal Justice Reform Repeal Following Chicago-area Shootings

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 18:51:12 GMT

Illinois Republicans are again calling for the repeal of recent changes to the state’s felony murder law following two incidents this week in which Cook County prosecutors chose not to push charges, citing changes to the statute.

On Wednesday, Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney James Murphy said that the law prevented him from charging 22-year-old Tayvon Powe with first-degree murder. On Tuesday, a Cook County grand jury similarly opted to not indict a man who shot and killed a bystander in an altercation.

The sweeping criminal justice reform package, the 2021 Illinois Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today (SAFE-T) Act, 101-HB3653 (Slaughter) was crafted by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus and signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in Feb. 2021. In addition to moving the state away from a cash bail system and requiring all law enforcement to use body cameras, the law narrowed the definition of who can be charged with felony murder, which in Illinois comes with a minimum sentence of 20 years.

According to Restore Justice Illinois “before the SAFE-T Act, Illinois had one of the broadest felony murder laws in the country. People were charged with first-degree murder when a police officer, store owner, or other third party killed someone. Some states don’t have felony murder laws, and in the majority of those that do, people can only be held accountable for deaths they or their co-defendants cause. The SAFE-T Act moved Illinois into that category.

Under the current law, a person can be charged with murder when they or their co-defendant directly cause the death but not when a third party kills someone.”

In a Tuesday press conference calling for a repeal of the change, House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) reiterated that the law needs to be repealed and claimed it was allowing criminals to run free without fear of repercussions.

“Changes to the felony murder law, pushed by delusional demagogues of the defund the police movement, have created a consequence-free environment for criminals in Illinois. … Most everyone in the state besides the Democrats who passed this law knew there were going to be horrific real-world consequences created by these poorly thought-out changes. People will be hurt, and now we are seeing it firsthand,” Durkin said Tuesday.

Following the second incident Wednesday, Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy released a statement.

“As violent crime surges across Chicago and bleeds into surrounding communities, we are now seeing the direct consequences of a Governor who prioritizes criminals over the safety of law-abiding Illinoisans. With each turn of the page, the SAFE-T Act reveals another way laws have been changed to give the advantage to criminals and make the job of protecting the public that much harder for law enforcement. We need to repeal the pro-criminal, anti-police SAFE-T Act immediately and elect a Governor who will make our communities safe again,” Tracy said in a statement.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Legislative Update

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 17:04:45 GMT

HB3389

POLICE TRAIN-UNFUNDED MANDATES (Weber, T) Amends the State Police Act. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of law, on and after the effective date of the amendatory Act, any State mandate regarding the matter of the training of Illinois State Police Officers that necessitates additional expenditures from the Illinois State Police or any State agency shall be void and unenforceable unless the General Assembly makes necessary appropriations to implement that training mandate. Provides that the failure of the General Assembly to make necessary appropriations shall relieve the Illinois State Police or State agency from the obligation to implement any State mandate. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of law, on and after the effective date of the amendatory Act, any State mandate regarding the matter of the training of law enforcement officers that necessitates additional expenditures from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, the Illinois State Police, or any State or local law enforcement agency or unit of local government shall be void and unenforceable unless the General Assembly makes necessary appropriations to implement that training mandate. Provides that the failure of the General Assembly to make necessary appropriations shall relieve the law enforcement agency, State agency, or unit of local government of the obligation to implement any State mandate.

2/1/2022 - House Judiciary - Criminal

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Senate Republicans Re-Introduce Crime Package, Call for 'SAFE-T Act' Repeal

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 21:27:08 GMT

Senate Republicans gathered at the Capitol in Springfield Tuesday to detail an updated set of legislative proposals they say would strengths support for law enforcement and help hold violent criminals accountable.

The Republicans said that their Democratic colleagues need to take the recent rise of violent crime seriously and pass legislation that will keep violent offenders off the streets, including repealing provisions of 101-HB3653 (Slaughter), the “SAFE-T Act,” which eliminated cash bail and reformed pre-trial sentencing.

Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Champaign) said that Republicans have continued to work on the legislation that they first proposed in Fall 2021.

“Just last month in Decatur, we had a police officer shot. Back in October, we said we're here. Let's do this now. Let's take the violent criminals off our streets. Let's take action. Nothing. Crickets. It has been three months since then. Three months? Well, the General Assembly's back to work, it's time to take action. It is past time. How many more people need to be shot, how many cars need to be hijacked, how many more people need to be murdered before the Democrats in this building do something?” Rose said.

The lawmakers were joined by current and former members of the law enforcement, including recently retired Piatt County Sheriff David Hunt.

“Democrats made the decision to work on police reform here in Illinois. Some of these reforms caused uncertainty that I felt would have a negative impact on law enforcement officers. A few examples include the cost of unfunded mandates, including data storage, body cams, and training, all without financial assistance. As a sheriff, that means less money for officers on the street. Additionally, ending cash bail completely is a mistake, and that would make it harder to keep violent criminals off the street,” Hunt said.

Included the Republican’s proposal is SB2918 (Rose), the “Fund the Police Grant Act,” which would provide targeted grants to law enforcement organizations for use with officer training, officer retention, and to assist with the purchase of needed equipment like body cameras.

“We continue to develop our proposal from the fall that Senator Rose talked about to provide additional resources to law enforcement through the fund the police act. This legislation would provide a direct infusion of $125 million to law enforcement that would provide funding for body cameras for police training, for outreach and community policy programs for hiring and rehiring of officers, and for mental health treatment for individuals who are incarcerated in our prisons,” said Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris).

Sen. Steve McClure (R-Jacksonville) provided additional details on their violence prevention proposals which include mandatory 10 years to life sentences for first offense violent gun convictions, and mandatory life sentences for subsequent convictions. They are also proposing a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison for individuals who provide guns to convicted criminals, aimed at curbing the recent rise in carjackings.

Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Mt. Vernon) said the process by which the SAFE-T Act was passed purposefully alienated law enforcement, which has led to many departures and early retirements.

“Last January, the Democrats pushed through sweeping changes to our criminal justice system. They pushed through those changes in the middle of the night without public or law enforcement input. A year later, we can safely say that their ‘my way or the highway’ approach has failed. Our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to keep us safe were cut completely out of the process. The governor and his legislative allies sent a clear signal the voice of law enforcement: you’re not welcome at the table,” Bryant said.

Allison F Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATES: McCabe ICC; Demmer Bill; Dordek for House; Death Penalty

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 19:54:59 GMT

Pritzker Appoints Former Commissioner McCabe to ICC

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Wednesday invited Ann McCabe, a former member of the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), to rejoin the regulatory body, appointing her to another five-year term.

McCabe previously served from March 2012 to January 2017. Since leaving ICC, McCabe worked as a U.S. Program Manager and Principal at the Regulatory Assistance Project, a non-profit that assists energy and environmental regulators.

“The ICC has an important role in the implementation of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which puts Illinois on the path to decarbonization by 2050. The next few years will be the most consequential and impactful in the agency’s 100-year history. Ann brings to the table a tremendous amount of regulatory experience. Her knowledge and expertise about energy and the environment will be invaluable as we make important decisions in the weeks and months ahead,” ICC Chairman Carrie Zalewski said in a statement.

McCabe has over 25 years of experience in the energy and environmental policy sectors.

“I’m grateful to Governor Pritzker for the opportunity to return to the ICC as a Commissioner and to serve the people of Illinois. I’ve devoted much of my life’s work to energy and environmental regulation, and I look forward to using my experience to help guide Illinois’ energy transformation,” McCabe said in a statement.

Demmer Introduces Bill Consolidating Comptroller into Treasurer’s Office

The Illinois Office of the State Comptroller would be eliminated and have its responsibilities transferred to the Office of the State Treasurer under new legislation introduced by Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon).

Demmer said that HC36 would help make government more efficient and save taxpayer dollars.

“Illinois taxpayers would be better served by having one office perform the duties of Comptroller and Treasurer,” Demmer said in a statement. “Reducing state government’s footprint and consolidating functions would achieve savings for taxpayers and streamline the fiscal operations of Illinois in a meaningful way. The late Judy Baar Topinka, who served separate terms in both offices, advocated for combining Comptroller and Treasurer into one position. We can honor her memory and reform an inefficient Madigan-era relic by acting now to let the people of Illinois have the final say on approving this reform later this year.”

Because the positions are outlined in the 1970 Illinois State Constitution, such a change would require supermajority support in the General Assembly and the approval of the voters in the next general election. Demmer sponsored similar legislation in past general assemblies.

Earlier this month, Demmer announced he would be running for state treasurer against incumbent Democrat Mike Frerichs.

Dordek Announces Candidacy for Outgoing Harris’ House Seat

Eileen Dordek, a licensed social worker with a background in advocating for women’s issues, will run in the 13th House District to replace outgoing House Majority Leader Greg Harris (D-Chicago), she announced Wednesday.

Dordek is a licensed social worker and therapist who works in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. She recently chaired the pro-choice political organization Personal PAC-Illinois, and continues to serve on the board of Equality Illinois, an organization supporting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

In November 2021, Harris announced he would retire from his position at the end of his term.

“We were so fortunate to have Leader Greg Harris as our Representative for the past 15 years and as a leader in our state,” Dordek said in a statement. “I have spent my life serving others and advocating for the rights of women, families, and the LGBTQIA+ community. In Springfield, I will be a champion for our community, expanding mental healthcare services, lowering the cost of child care, and expanding paid leave.”

Dordek has raised $65,000 in campaign funds and has secured the endorsements of multiple sitting Democrats, including Sens. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) and Laura Fine (D-Glenview), and Reps. Ann Williams (D-Chicago) and Anna Moeller (D-Elgin).

In 2019, Dordek ran to represent Ward 47 on Chicago City Council, placing third in the race.

Bailey Calls for Death Penalty for Murder of Law Enforcement Officers

Illinoisans found guilty of murdering a police officer would be eligible for the death penalty under new legislation recently introduced by Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Louisville).

SB3899 (Bailey) would reinstate the death penalty for those found guilty of first-degree murder of law enforcement officer.

Bailey, who is running for the Republican nomination for governor, explained the bill while flanked by law enforcement at the Effingham Police Department Wednesday.

“We need leaders in Springfield willing to stand up and fight for them against a radical agenda that seems to prioritize criminals over cops and puts law enforcement, law enforcement communities, and our families at risk. The men and women who put that uniform on are heroes and their service to our communities must be recognized, and they must be respected in the state of Illinois,” Bailey said.

During the press conference, Bailey said he also supports the repeal of other Democrat-sponsored criminal justice bills that he said give criminals more rights than law enforcement or average citizens.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Legislative Update

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:58:57 GMT

50 ILCS 705 - Illinois Police Training Act.

HB5009

PEACE OFFICER ARBITRATION (Slaughter, J) Amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. Provides that notwithstanding the provisions of the Act and the Uniform Arbitration Act, arbitrators' decisions involving peace officer terminations or suspensions of more than 30 days are subject to judicial review under the Administrative Review Law. Amends the Uniform Peace Officers' Disciplinary Act. Provides that for purposes of an arbitration proceeding concerning alleged misconduct by a peace officer: (1) a law enforcement agency or, if applicable, a civilian or community oversight board, agency or review body, has the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence to show that: (1) the officer engaged in the alleged misconduct; and (2) created to oversee disciplinary matters concerning law enforcement officers pursuant to a city charter or ordinance for which a measure that included the question of whether to establish the board, agency, or body. Provides that when the imposed disciplinary action is termination of employment, an arbitrator may not set aside or reduce the imposed disciplinary action if setting aside or reducing the disciplinary action is inconsistent with the public interest in maintaining community trust, enforcing a higher standard of conduct for officers and ensuring an accountable, fair, and just disciplinary process. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board shall adopt rules that prescribe uniform: (1) standards of conduct, including guidelines and procedures, to which law enforcement officers shall adhere; and (2) disciplinary standards and procedures, including a range of disciplinary actions that may include consideration of aggravating or mitigating circumstances, by which a law enforcement agency, a civilian or community oversight board, agency or review body, and an arbitrator who serves in an arbitration proceeding concerning peace officer discipline. Makes other changes.
Bill Version: As Introduced in the House
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/6.3; 50 ILCS 705/6.8 new;

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker Announces Measures to Reduce Burden on Health Care Workers

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 19:16:43 GMT

The Omicron strain of the virus driving the current surge in COVID-19 cases has placed a significant burden on health care workers and institutions, requiring extra measures announced by Gov. J.B. Pritzker Wednesday.

During a COVID-19 press conference Wednesday, Pritzker said out-of-state health care workers can now continue to work in Illinois during the ongoing public health emergency with expanded permission allowing them to treat all patients, not just those diagnosed with COVID-19. Additionally, doctors trained in other countries may now assist physicians licensed here, and out-of-state providers may now provide telehealth services to Illinoisans.

“Medical professionals and staff are caring for our family members, for our neighbors, for our friends in this hour of need. They need help, and I'm doing everything that I can to support them as they tackle this latest surge. To give them a reprieve and to expand the number of staffed hospital beds. 2048 health care workers have been deployed across the state. 919 of them are on-site supporting hospitals hit hard by COVID,” Pritzker said Wednesday.

“Throughout this crisis, state government has had to be innovative and agile, to find creative solutions to maintain healthcare capacity during this unprecedented crisis, delivering assistance, waivers and guidance to our healthcare institutions as they pursue creative and safe solutions to build capacity for patient care.”

Pritzker also offered remarks on the efforts his administration undertook to help end the weeklong work stoppage at Chicago Public Schools (CPS), thanking Abbott Laboratories CEO Robert Ford for their cooperation in providing 350,000 rapid COVID-19 tests to CPS on Monday.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike continued to urge Illinoisans to get vaccinated and boosted.

“Our health care workers are burning the candle at both ends, and in the middle as well, to care for COVID patients who could have avoided the hospitalization if they were up to date on their vaccine. I hear people say, ‘Oh, I know someone I know someone who had the vaccine and they still got sick.’ But please don't equate someone with a cough, runny nose, or sore throat to someone having to be admitted into the hospital and [needing] precious hospital resources,” she said.

“Of the 7.7 million people in Illinois who've been fully vaccinated, 0.08 percent have been hospitalized with COVID. That's not less than 1 percent, that's less than one-tenth of 1 percent.”

Taking questions from reporters, Pritzker said that the state’s recent adoption of rules requiring employers with over 100 employees to require vaccination was driven by federal mandate. He said full adoption will depend on an issue currently sitting before the U.S. Supreme Court.

“We wanted to give them enough notice ahead of time so they could get prepared in case to the Supreme Court affirms the Biden administration’s request,” he said.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike continued to urge Illinoisans to get vaccinated and boosted.

“Of the 7.7 million people in Illinois who've been fully vaccinated, 0.08 percent have been hospitalized with COVID. That's not less than 1 percent, that's less than one-tenth of 1 percent.”

“We wanted to give them enough notice ahead of time so they could get prepared in case the Supreme Court affirms the Biden administration’s request,” he said.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

News Update : Press Release re Final Round of Rebuild Distressed Communities Program

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 19:48:06 GMT

STATE OF ILLINOIS ANNOUNCES $8.4 MILLION IN SMALL BUSINESS, COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR GRANTS TO REVITALIZE COMMUNITIES

Final round of Rebuild Distressed Communities program to revitalize businesses and key commercial districts impacted by 2020’s civil unrest

CHICAGO—The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), announced $8.4 million in additional grants for small businesses and commercial corridors located around the state to help rebuild and revitalize in the wake of last year’s civil unrest. The final round of Rebuild Distressed Communities (RDC) provides $976,000 to 26 small businesses and $7.45 million to help revitalize seven commercial corridors located across the state.

“A strong pandemic economic recovery includes recognizing that some communities have long been denied their fair share of resources,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Through the Rebuild Distressed Communities program, we are delivering $8.4 million in direct grants to over two dozen small businesses and multiple regional economic corridors to build on the impact of our $250 million Back to Business program with an equitable lens.”

"The Rebuild Distressed Communities program is another way for our state to recover, heal, and grow together," said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. "Our administration is committed to economic development that uplifts all of us, and putting our state's small businesses and vulnerable communities at the forefront through this funding is how we expand equity and opportunity across Illinois."

The RDC program was launched last year by the State of Illinois to help businesses and communities rebuild from civil unrest. In addition to awarding grants to help impacted small business repair damages and rebuild or expand, the program also requested proposals from communities seeking to deliver long-term improvements along commercial corridors where businesses experienced damages during civil unrest. Overall, the RDC program will deploy a total $9.2 million, including 58 small business grants announced earlier this year.

“Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, DCEO is committed to leveraging our federal and state resources to help small businesses and communities hardest hit build back better in the wake of the pandemic,” said DCEO Acting Director Sylvia I. Garcia. “The investments made in this latest round of funding are two fold, helping small businesses repair immediate damages, while also making capital improvements in communities that will bring back foot traffic to commercial corridors and boost economic vitality.”

The State of Illinois worked with grant administrators LISC Chicago and the Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives to select applicants to receive funding. Working with these local partners, DCEO developed a process to connect small businesses with qualified contractors. The program prioritized local and Business Enterprise Program (BEP) contractors to ensure that job opportunities created by performing repairs and improvements went to those based in communities impacted by unrest.

“LISC is honored to partner with the State to help Illinois’ small businesses get back on their feet,” said Meghan Harte, Executive Director of LISC Chicago. “The COVID-19 pandemic has already devastated small businesses across the state, undoing generations of economic and entrepreneurial equity that had been built up in our communities. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods, and the heartbreaking destruction experienced across Illinois in the summer of 2020 hurt small businesses the most. However, our state’s small businesses are resilient, and we are proud to support them as they rebuild.”

“CNI is proud to work with Governor Pritzker to help minority residents and businesses gain access to statewide repair and construction opportunities,” said David Doig, President of CNI. “This has helped them compete and succeed in today’s economy while making repairs and improvements to the commercial corridors that grow small businesses and create the jobs and amenities which our communities rely upon. It’s been a privilege to partner with the State of IL, LISC, and the other organizations to advance these critically important objectives.”

Funding awarded to small businesses will pave the way for an array of repairs as well as new construction projects to enhance the viability of local businesses and the communities they serve. Grants will help cover the cost of reimbursement for damages, insurance deductibles, and construction work related to repairs as a result of civil unrest. The entire list of business grantees are available on DCEO’s website, linked here.

In addition to the small business grants, RDC grants include funding for seven community projects focused on boosting economic vitality in commercial corridors across the state. The commercial corridor projects are:

• Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council $1,498,750 (affordable housing and commercial space),
• City of Aurora, $1,200,000 (corridor enhancements)
• City of East St. Louis, $900,000 (corridor enhancements)
• City of Peoria, $1,200,000 (streetscape)
• South East Chicago Chamber of Commerce, $1,450,000 (fiber optic cable enhancement)
• West Humboldt Park Development Council, $300,000 (corridor enhancements)
• City of Markham $900,000 (corridor enhancements)

“East St. Louis is excited to utilize the funding provided by this program to repaint the narrative of our community,” Mayor Robert Eastern III, City of East St. Louis. “This resource will be used to expand our efforts to enhance lighting along city streets and to provide new security cameras in one of the city’s busiest and most vibrant corridor, the State Street business district.”

“During the civil unrest that unfolded in the summer of 2020, 85 businesses and organizations throughout the City of Aurora were the victims of burglaries, criminal damage, and arsons,” said Aurora Police Chief Keith Cross. “This grant will allow us to protect our businesses, residents and visitors into the future and will provide real-time information that will help direct the daily response of our public safety personnel.”

Applications for corridor projects were reviewed and evaluated according to the extent of property damage due to civil unrest, with program priorities being projects that were located in distressed communities, had geographic diversity around the state, and an investment impact that will build resiliency and revitalize the business corridor. In order to qualify for funds, project proposals were required to demonstrate the project would occur within the same block that experienced property damage or on contiguous blocks if required for project continuity. Funds for the RDC program are from the state’s historic $45 billion Rebuild Illinois Capital Program.

“The 4600 block of Ashland Avenue has been adversely impacted for decades by the lack of investment in the retail corridor. The result of the civil unrest in June of 2020 further exacerbated an already bad situation, leaving much of the block in physical disarray,” said Craig Chico, President & CEO of Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council. “The Rebuild Distressed Communities Grant is creating an opportunity to not only rebuild from those devastating unrest, but this will allow us to build for the future by investing in affordable housing, community, and commercial activities. The entire retail corridor will benefit from this development 4636 South Ashland, which would’ve not occurred without this State Grant.”

Projects for corridor improvements will repair and improve the surrounding area while increasing economic opportunities for impacted businesses. The projects were evaluated based on project need, capacity, quality, and societal impact.

“The City of Markham Small Business District will have the benefit of added safety and security through the RDC corridor revitalization funds,” said Roger A. Agpawa, Mayor for the City of Markham. “This investment will allow us to protect this corridor with cameras and programmable smart signage, helping us deliver additional services to local businesses and the community.”

“Thank you, Governor Pritzker. Amid the challenges of the pandemic, RDC funding has allowed us to restore multiple locations throughout Chicago,” said Michael Donaldson, Owner of NoContract Inc., a chain of cellphone retail stores. “This program provided the opportunity to reopen storefronts, keep workers employed, and offer telecommunication services in the areas we operate, the Southside of Chicago.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Pritzker administration has led with a swift response to the economic impacts facing businesses and communities across the state. To date, over $1.5 billion in assistance has been provided by DCEO alone – including over 9,000 small business grants, workforce training grants, capital improvements, and other forms of community assistance.

Currently, DCEO is accepting applications for additional capital dollars aimed at revitalizing commercial areas in communities across the state. The recently launched Rebuild Illinois Main Street and Downtown program will provide up to $50 million in grants for construction, repair and modernization of public infrastructure and amenities to boost jobs, improve quality of life and stimulate economic activity for areas hit hardest during COVID-19. The deadline to apply is today, January 10, 2022.

For more information on supports available for small businesses, or to learn more about ongoing capital programs, please visit DCEO’s website or follow the department on social @IllinoisDCEO.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Gov. Pritzker Action

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 19:47:42 GMT

Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action:

Bill Number: HB 1953
Description: Clarifies various provisions related to the 2022 election cycle.
Action: Signed
Effective: Immediately

Bill Number: HB 3138
Description: Redraws judicial subcircuit maps to reflect the results of the 2020 census.
Action: Signed
Effective: Immediately

Bill Number: HB 3512
Description: Trailer bill to Public Act 101-652 that adjusts various provisions and effective dates related to law enforcement training, police decertification, mandatory supervised release, officer-worn body cameras, and other matters.
Action: Signed
Effective: Immediately, with certain provisions taking effect July 1, 2022

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

New Laws Taking Effect in 2022 Impact Employers, Employees

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 21:43:09 GMT

Please see below, a list of laws that will impact employers and employees, and will be effective Jan 1, 2022.

The Victims' Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA) was amended to create the Violent Crime Victims’ Leave Act, which allows employees who are victims of violence or who have family or household members who are victims of violence to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per any 12-month period to seek medical help, legal assistance, counseling, safety planning, and other assistance. The amendment also prohibits employers from discriminating against employees who are victims of violence or who have family or household members who are victims of violence.
Beginning January 1, 2022, IDOL is responsible for maintaining a database that allows the public to search certified payrolls submitted by construction contractors on public works projects subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act. This is the result of Public Act 102-0332, which is intended to ensure contractors are complying with the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act. Contractors are required to file those certified payrolls by the 15th of each month. By the 16th day of each month following the month work was performed, IDOL will make relevant information available to the public. More information about the database can be foundhere.
There are new health insurance coverage disclosures employers must make to better inform employees in accordance with the Consumer Coverage Disclosure Act. While state health insurance coverage requirements are limited to state-regulated plans, the new law brings transparency by requiring all employers doing business in Illinois to disclose to their employees what group health plans do and do not cover, if they provide group health insurance. Employers offering group health insurance plans in Illinois must provide employees with a comparison of coverage by the employer’s group health plan and the essential health benefits covered by ACA Marketplace health plans sold in Illinois. All in all, there are 42 medical services and treatments that employers must identify as covered or not. IDOL has provided employers guidance and necessary documents to comply with the disclosure requirements on its web site: Consumer Coverage Disclosure Act.
Trampoline courts will be subject to inspection and permitting under the Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Act (ARAS) in 2022. IDOL does not allow amusement rides or attractions to operate unless they have been inspected and permitted. Rides and/or attractions are insured and meet predetermined safety standards before operating in Illinois. IDOL crafted legislation to make sure these facilities and employees meet industry standards. At the time of inspection, owners are required to provide documentation for all employees involved with the operation of trampoline equipment that a criminal history records check and sex offender registry check have been conducted, provide documentation they received proper training and have a substance abuse policy in place, which includes random drug testing. To read more about new rules for trampoline courts, click here.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Amendments filed to Police Training Act and Body Camera Act

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:53:36 GMT

50 ILCS 705 - Illinois Police Training Act.
HB3512	CORRECTIONS-SUPERVISED RELEASE (Slaughter, J) Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that the Prisoner Review Board shall be the authority for setting conditions for mandatory supervised release under specified provisions and determining whether a violation of those conditions warrant revocation of mandatory supervised release or the imposition of other sanctions. Provides that the Board shall hear by at least one member and through a panel of at least 3 members determine the conditions of mandatory supervised release, determine the time of discharge from mandatory supervised release, impose sanctions for violations of mandatory supervised release, and revoke mandatory supervised release for those sentenced under specified provisions. Provides that if a person was originally prosecuted under the provisions of the Criminal Code of 1961 or the Criminal Code of 2012, sentenced under the provisions of the Act pursuant to the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, and convicted as an adult and committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Juvenile Justice shall, no less than 120 days prior to the date that the person reaches the age of 21, send written notification to the Prisoner Review Board indicating the day upon which the committed person will achieve the age of 21. Requires the Prisoner Review Board to conduct a hearing with no less than 3 members to determine whether or not the minor shall be assigned mandatory supervised release or be transferred to the Department of Corrections prior to the minor's twenty-first birthday. Bill Version: Senate Amendment 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Creates a Review Committee for specified purposes and duties within the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board. Modifies provisions concerning the membership of the Illinois Law Enforcement Certification Review Panel. Adds requirements concerning the discretionary decertification of full-time and part-time law enforcement officers. Modifies provisions concerning emergency orders of suspension for law enforcement officers. Provides further requirements concerning the officer professional conduct database, transparency, and criminal background investigations. Provides for the use of the terms "law enforcement agency" and "local law enforcement agency" throughout the Act (rather than "government agency" and "local government agency"). Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Provides that nothing in the Act prohibits police agencies from labeling officer-worn body camera video within the recording medium; provided that the labeling does not alter the actual recording of the incident captured on the officer-worn body camera. Provides that the labels, titles, and tags shall not be construed as altering the body camera video in any way. Amends the Illinois State Police Act. Provides for the disclosure of specified public records in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act. Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Provides requirements concerning the right to communicate with an attorney and family when in police custody. Amends the Pretrial Services Act. Provides that the Supreme Court is encouraged to establish a framework that facilitates the hiring and training of new State-employed pretrial services personnel to serve in jurisdictions without an established and functioning circuit-based pretrial services agency. Defines terms. Makes conforming and other changes. Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that the mandatory supervised release term for a Class 3 or 4 felony is 12 months, except for certain specified offenses. Provides that no later than 30 days after the onset of the term of mandatory supervised release and at the halfway point into the term of mandatory supervised release, the Prisoner Review Board shall conduct a discretionary discharge review, which shall include the results of a standardized risk and needs assessment tool administered by the Department of Corrections. Provides that nothing in this provision shall be construed to prevent the Prisoner Review Board from performing the discretionary discharge review and issuing a determination prior to the onset of the term of mandatory supervised release. Amends the Freedom of Information Act to make a conforming change. Effective January 1, 2022. ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/1; 50 ILCS 705/10.1; 50 ILCS 705/10.11; 50 ILCS 705/10.12; 50 ILCS 705/10.13; 50 ILCS 705/10.16; 50 ILCS 705/10.19; 50 ILCS 705/10.2; 50 ILCS 705/10.20; 50 ILCS 705/10.22; 50 ILCS 705/10.6; 50 ILCS 705/2; 50 ILCS 705/3; 50 ILCS 705/3.1; 50 ILCS 705/6; 50 ILCS 705/6.1; 50 ILCS 705/6.2; 50 ILCS 705/6.3; 50 ILCS 705/6.7; 50 ILCS 705/7; 50 ILCS 705/8.1; 50 ILCS 705/8.2; 50 ILCS 705/8.3; 50 ILCS 705/8.4; 50 ILCS 705/9.2;
50 ILCS 706 - Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act.
HB3512	CORRECTIONS-SUPERVISED RELEASE (Slaughter, J) Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that the Prisoner Review Board shall be the authority for setting conditions for mandatory supervised release under specified provisions and determining whether a violation of those conditions warrant revocation of mandatory supervised release or the imposition of other sanctions. Provides that the Board shall hear by at least one member and through a panel of at least 3 members determine the conditions of mandatory supervised release, determine the time of discharge from mandatory supervised release, impose sanctions for violations of mandatory supervised release, and revoke mandatory supervised release for those sentenced under specified provisions. Provides that if a person was originally prosecuted under the provisions of the Criminal Code of 1961 or the Criminal Code of 2012, sentenced under the provisions of the Act pursuant to the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, and convicted as an adult and committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Department of Juvenile Justice shall, no less than 120 days prior to the date that the person reaches the age of 21, send written notification to the Prisoner Review Board indicating the day upon which the committed person will achieve the age of 21. Requires the Prisoner Review Board to conduct a hearing with no less than 3 members to determine whether or not the minor shall be assigned mandatory supervised release or be transferred to the Department of Corrections prior to the minor's twenty-first birthday. Bill Version: Senate Amendment 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Creates a Review Committee for specified purposes and duties within the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board. Modifies provisions concerning the membership of the Illinois Law Enforcement Certification Review Panel. Adds requirements concerning the discretionary decertification of full-time and part-time law enforcement officers. Modifies provisions concerning emergency orders of suspension for law enforcement officers. Provides further requirements concerning the officer professional conduct database, transparency, and criminal background investigations. Provides for the use of the terms "law enforcement agency" and "local law enforcement agency" throughout the Act (rather than "government agency" and "local government agency"). Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Provides that nothing in the Act prohibits police agencies from labeling officer-worn body camera video within the recording medium; provided that the labeling does not alter the actual recording of the incident captured on the officer-worn body camera. Provides that the labels, titles, and tags shall not be construed as altering the body camera video in any way. Amends the Illinois State Police Act. Provides for the disclosure of specified public records in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act. Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Provides requirements concerning the right to communicate with an attorney and family when in police custody. Amends the Pretrial Services Act. Provides that the Supreme Court is encouraged to establish a framework that facilitates the hiring and training of new State-employed pretrial services personnel to serve in jurisdictions without an established and functioning circuit-based pretrial services agency. Defines terms. Makes conforming and other changes. Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Provides that the mandatory supervised release term for a Class 3 or 4 felony is 12 months, except for certain specified offenses. Provides that no later than 30 days after the onset of the term of mandatory supervised release and at the halfway point into the term of mandatory supervised release, the Prisoner Review Board shall conduct a discretionary discharge review, which shall include the results of a standardized risk and needs assessment tool administered by the Department of Corrections. Provides that nothing in this provision shall be construed to prevent the Prisoner Review Board from performing the discretionary discharge review and issuing a determination prior to the onset of the term of mandatory supervised release. Amends the Freedom of Information Act to make a conforming change. Effective January 1, 2022.

NEWS UPDATES: Juvenile Vaccines; Education Deputy Gov.; Homelessness Chief; Prisoner ID

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 15:05:45 GMT

Children Under 12 Now Able to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Wednesday announced that it has adopted the CDC’s recommendation that that children ages 5 to 11 receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

The Pfizer vaccine has already been approved for use in children 12 older.

“I encourage parents who may have questions about COVID-19 vaccines for their children to talk with a pediatrician or family doctor,” IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said. “Medical experts and scientists have reviewed the data, which included clinical trials with more than 3,000 children receiving the vaccine and have recommended the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children. While most children do not suffer severe COVID-19 illness, some do. We also know children are great transmitters and can unknowingly infect people who could suffer severe illness. We need as many people as possible, including children, to be vaccinated to stop the spread of the virus and end this pandemic.”

IDPH reports that 2,200 providers throughout the state are already enrolled and available to vaccinate children. IDPH staff are also available to help hold vaccination drives at schools around the state.

There is no requirement for children to receive a vaccine to attend school. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said this week that such a requirement would require legislative action.

Pritzker Names Torres Deputy Gov. for Education

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Wednesday announced that Martin V. Torres will serve as the new Deputy Gov. for Education.

Torres, who previously served in the administration as First Assistant Deputy Gov. for Education and as a Senior Policy Advisor, succeeds Deputy Gov. Jesse Ruiz, who announced his departure on Aug. 25, 2021.

“Martin is a dedicated public servant and trusted advisor whose passion for achieving a quality education for all of our children will continue to be an asset to this administration,” Pritzker said in a statement. “From fighting for education equity at the Latino Policy Forum, to executing our P-20 education agenda and helping bring students safely back to our classrooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, Martin has done so much to improve the lives of Illinois’ families. I value his insights and look forward to our continued work to ensure a full pandemic recovery and quality education for all of our students.”

“The Governor and I are focused on making Illinois the best state in the nation to raise children. Illinois students, now more than ever, need additional support to achieve their potential and pursue their dreams,” Torres said in a statement. “This administration is committed to changing the trajectory of students’ lives by expanding access to early care and education, bolstering the state’s investment in the k-12 funding, making college more affordable, and expanding pathways to emerging industries.”

Haley Takes Office as State Homelessness Chief

The Illinois Department of Human Services Wednesday announced the appointment of Christine Haley as State Homelessness Chief.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Haley would be taking the role when he created the position through an executive order issued on Sept. 3, 2021.

“We have an incredible opportunity to fight homelessness through the collective efforts of persons experiencing homelessness, community providers, and coordinated government departments,” said Christine Haley, State Homelessness Chief. “I am thankful for Governor Pritzker and his administration for taking the bold steps to create the Interagency Task Force and Community Advisory Council. I look forward to creating a visionary plan with the community to prevent and end homelessness for Illinois residents.”

In her new position, Haley will chair the Illinois Interagency Task Force on Homelessness and co-chair the Community Advisory Council on Homelessness. She will also craft state policy related reducing and eliminating homelessness and coordinate with other state departments to accomplish those goals.

Haley previously served as Senior Director of Programs at Housing Opportunities for Women from 2018-2019.

New Program Provides Released Prisoners State ID

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White Wednesday announced a new program that will provide individuals leaving the state’s prisons with a state ID card.

The State ID Program for Returning Residents program was successfully piloted at 18 Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) facilities this year. It will now expand to serve 27 IDOC facilities by April 2022. The goal is to reduce the amount of time prisoners currently spend gathering documents after they are released and need an ID for employment, housing, etc.

“The State ID Program for Returning Residents gives people who have served their time in prison a necessary tool as they re-enter their communities,” White said in a statement. “A state ID card is essential to transition back into society.”

“Equipping individuals in custody with the resources they need to reintegrate into their communities successfully reduces the likelihood they will return to IDOC,” IDOC Director Rob Jeffreys said in a statement. “We are proud to work with the Secretary of State and our agency partners to implement innovative solutions that help break the cycle of incarceration for many Illinois families.”

Prior to release, incarcerated individuals work with IDOC staff to gather the necessary documents for a state ID. Once processed and approved by the Secretary of State’s Office, a state ID is given back to IDOC, where they send it back to the appropriate facility to be given to the individual upon release.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: House Passes COVID-19 Exceptions to Right of Conscience Act, Repeal of Parental Notification

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:30:02 GMT

The Illinois House late Wednesday narrowly passed two key Democrat-backed pieces of legislation: the creation of COVID-19 exceptions to the Health Care Right of Conscience Act (HCRCA) and the repeal of the state’s abortion parental notification law.

The House voted 64-52 to pass an amended version of SB1169 (Fine). House Sponsor Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston) said the bill would correct the misuse of a state law that was established decades ago primarily to prevent health care providers from being forced to provide abortions.

“Contrary to rampant misinformation campaigns, this bill is not a vaccine mandate. In fact, it does not require anyone to do anything. As the bill itself says, this is simply a declaration of existing law and shall not be construed as a new enactment. … the bill before us today simply clarifies the well-established legislative intent of the Health Care Right of Conscience Act,” Gabel said.

House Amendment 3 to SB1169 makes a change within Illinois’ HCRCA, the law that allows individuals to object to receiving or participating in health care services on moral or religious grounds. The bill would specifically exempt treatments such as vaccines that prevent the contraction or transmission of COVID-19.

In other words, individuals could no longer legally use a moral or religious argument to skirt a COVID-19 vaccine or testing requirement. The change is supported by health care groups including Illinois Hospital Association and opposed by religious organizations, including the Catholic Conference of Illinois.

“The best approach to the challenges created by sincere conscience objections is not to simply eliminate the right to make conscience objections, but rather to formulate reasonable accommodations that both respect the right of conscience and protect health care workers and patients. The citizens of this State do not have to choose between violating their consciences and maintaining a safe environment for workers; we can do both. In cases involving sincere conscience objections under the HCRCA, we can accomplish this by requiring stringent testing, masking, and appropriate distancing,” the Catholic Conference wrote in a letter to Gov. Pritzker earlier this month.

Seven Democrats voted against the bill: Reps. Carol Ammons (D-Champaign), Kelly Burke (D-Oak Lawn), John D’Amico (D-Chicago), Anthony DeLuca (D-Chicago Heights), Mary Flowers (D-Chicago), Ann Hurley (D-Chicago), and Stephanie Kifowit (D-Aurora). Two voted present: Reps. Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D-Chicago) and Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan).

Republicans on the floor opposed the measure, saying it simply would force vaccination upon Illinoisans and is an extension of the governor’s misuse of his authority where, instead, the Legislature should be taking more direct control. They noted that over 50,000 opponent witness slips were submitted for House Amendment 2, which was largely similar to House Amendment 3. Witness slips were not able to be filed on House Amendment 3.

“This is absolutely atrocious. This is unbelievable that we're considering this on the House floor. This is not about the health care right of conscience. This is about the last 18 months of unilateral authority from the governor. … They want to remove this so they can force vaccination on us,” said Rep. Adam Niemerg (R-Teutopolis).

In response to a question from Rep. Dan Ugaste (R-Saint Charles) about the effective date on the bill, Gabel said it would become effective June 1, 2022, but the legislative intent of the bill would likely have immediate impacts.

Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Westmont) led a long line of questions pointed at whether or not Gabel’s amendment would constitute a substantial change to the law, or, as Gabel contended, a clarification of the law. Mazzochi said that creating a carve-out specifically for COVID-19 in the law would be unprecedented.

“This is an unprecedented effort to backdoor a vaccination mandate without any lines of accountability, including at the Legislature, and without any escape valve for religious liberty. Every other vaccine mandate we have in the state of Illinois is specific, limited, and was passed by the Legislature after years of conclusive scientific proof of beneficial outcomes, and they all still allow for religious exemption or independent proof of immunity to satisfy the statute,” she said.

The bill now goes to the Senate for concurrence.

The House voted 62-51 to approve Senate amendments to HB370 (Gong-Gershowitz), which would repeal the Parental Notice of Abortion Act of 1995, which requires health care providers to notify the parents or guardian of minor seeking an abortion 48 hours before performing the procedure.

Six Democrats voted against the bill: Reps. William Davis (D-Hazel Crest), Anthony DeLuca (D-Chicago Heights), Sue Scherer (D-Decatur), Lawrence Walsh (D-Joliet), Lance Yednock (D-Ottawa), and Michael Zalewski (D-Riverside). Three other Democrats voted present: Kelly Burke (D-Oak Lawn), Fred Crespo (D-Streamwood), and Ann Hurley (D-Chicago).

Sponsor Rep. Anna Moeller (D-Elgin) explained that the parental notification law places an “unfair and dangerous burden” on pregnant minors.

“The reasons for repeal are many. The vast majority of young people voluntarily tell a parent about an unplanned pregnancy, and those who cannot tell a parent often involve other family members or trusted adults. The minority of young people who are not able to talk to their parents have serious reasons for not doing so, such as fear of physical or emotional abuse, loss of financial support or homelessness, fear of being forced to give birth against their will, or serious family problems such as a parent who is sick or in prison,” she said.

House Republicans, like their Senate counterparts, decried the bill as an attack on the rights of parents to raise their children as they see fit and be involved in important life decisions.

Rep. Avery Bourne (R-Litchfield) said that polling shows 72 percent of Illinoisans, most of whom are pro-choice, support notifying a parent or guardian if a minor is seeking an abortion, meaning the issue cuts across traditional pro-choice or pro-life. She said she would prefer that parents are involved, regardless of how they feel about abortion as an issue.

“For parents who've been notified that their minor daughter is considering an abortion, and they support it, I want them to know. I want them to be able to drive their daughter to the abortion clinic. I want them to be there to care for that daughter afterwards. I want them to know, just as much as I want a parent to know who may be pro-life who may vehemently disagree with that decision. I still want them to support their daughter in that decision. I want them to be there for them,” Bourne said.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) said that the parental notification act is a “gaping hole” in the state’s protective firewall for reproductive rights.

“We are seeing, anti-abortion politicians all across the country seeking to curb our access to abortion for anyone and everyone. They literally want to just force us all to keep every pregnancy to term regardless of what's happening, regardless of the risks to our lives. Illinois is different, and it's going to stay different. We're going to finish that work today by closing the loophole in our in our firewall,” Cassidy said.

House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) praised the bill’s passage in a statement.

“Repealing the Parental Notification Act has been a priority of mine for many years and I am incredibly proud to see it cross the finish line tonight," Welch said in a statement. "I want to congratulate Representative Anna Moeller for all of her hard work, as well as the many advocacy organizations who have joined us in this fight to ensure accessible reproductive healthcare for all."

Planned Parenthood Illinois Action also praised the passage of the legislation.

“By passing the Youth Health and Safety Act, Illinois has ensured that young people can choose to involve the people they trust in their health care decisions and are protected from harmful domestic situations and unnecessary judicial interactions. In short, all Illinoisans, regardless of age, now have the full legal autonomy to make decisions about what’s best for their bodies. We look forward to Governor Pritzker upholding his promise to sign this bill when it crosses his desk,” Jennifer Welch, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Illinois Action, said in a statement.

The bill now heads the governor’s desk, where he has indicated that he will sign the legislation.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Gov. Pritzker Takes Bill Action

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 01:04:08 GMT

Today, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action:

Bill Number: SB 539
Description: Makes meaningful ethics reforms to restrict government officials from lobbying activities, tighten regulations on registered lobbyists and consultants, and expand economic interest disclosures.
Action: Amendatory Veto Certification
Effective: January 1, 2022

Bill Number: SB 967
Description: Ensures Illinois continues to be a leader in our efforts to erode racial disparities in healthcare coverage and access for women and babies by allowing the state to expand its maternal and child health programs to serve pregnant and postpartum individuals determined high-risk.
Action: Amendatory Veto Certification
Effective: Immediately

Bill Number: SB 2065
Description: Waives employer charges for costs associated with the eligibility of non-instructional academic personnel from benefits paid January 3, 2021, through September 4, 2021.
Action: Signed
Effective: Immediately

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: The Pritzker Administration Announces the Recipients of the Illinois Fire Department COVID-19 Relief Grant

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 15:57:42 GMT

Please find attached the press release announcing the fire districts that received the COVID-19 relief grant.

Press Release

Adopted Rules - Office of the State Fire Marshal

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 19:40:10 GMT

 FIREFIGHTERS

The OFFICE OFTHE STATE FIRE MARSHAL adopted amendments to Policy and Procedures Manual for Fire Protection Personnel (41 IAC 141; 45 Ill Reg 3291) effective 8/31/21, updating training requirements and certification criteria for various firefighter positions, ranks and titles. Certification as a Company Fire Officer, Advanced Fire Officer, Fire Inspector I, Fire Investigator, or Arson Investigator, or in hazardous materials operations or rope operations, requires meeting or exceeding the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). For Company and Advanced Fire Officers, this includes completion of 40 Phase I instructional hours (in person or online) and 80 Phase II instructional hours (must be in person). Beginning 1/1/22, recertification will be required every 4 years for 29 additional ranks/titles (previously, only Fire Investigator andArson Investigator required recertification); the rulemaking outlines the recertification process. Since 1st Notice, in response to public comment, OSFM has clarified that ranks and titles not recertified by the deadline remain valid, but not current. Level-specific certifications other than Fire Investigator andArson Investigator that require recertification before 1/1/22 will remain in effect through 12/31/25. Other changes since 1st Notice clarify the title recertification process and which “historical” titles are equivalent to current titles. Local fire departments will be affected by this rulemaking.

Questions/requests for copies: Nancy Robinson, OSFM, 1035 Stevenson Drive, Springfield IL 62703, 217/785-7629.

NEWS UPDATE: Gov. Pritzker Announces First $24 Million in Back to Business Grants to Support Small Businesses

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 19:16:03 GMT

Please see below press release from Gov Pritzker.

Gov. Pritzker Announces First $24 Million in Back to Business Grants to Support Small Businesses

State Urges Small Businesses to Apply for $226 Million in Remaining Funds Before October 13 Deadline

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced the first grants have been awarded through the Back to Business (B2B) recovery program. To help businesses facing acute operational impacts due to COVID-19, 521 grants totaling more than $24 million have been provided to small businesses in 146 cities across the state. The first wave of funds provided through this program support an array of diverse businesses representing industries and geographies hardest hit by the pandemic, and with more than half of the grants provided to minority-owned businesses across Illinois.

Overall, the B2B program allocates $250 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for small businesses experiencing COVID-19 losses, and grants will continue to be awarded on a rolling basis. Eligible businesses are encouraged to apply before the October 13 deadline by visiting the DCEO website.

“I am excited to announce the first $24 million in Back to Business grants – just the beginning of our efforts to distribute over $250 million to small business owners across the state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This first wave of B2B funds will help over 500 of our state’s entrepreneurs rehire staff and cover operating costs – without owing a single cent back. And as Illinois rebuilds and recovers, we will continue to step up for our small businesses. They deserve to breathe easier and dream bigger – it’s our mission to deliver the funds and resources they need to do so.”

“These grants will be the bridge to economic stability for many of these wonderful businesses that are the backbone of our state’s economy and provide jobs and a positive presence in so many communities,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.

To help restore operational losses incurred during the pandemic, the B2B program will provide grants ranging in size from $5,000 to $150,000, commensurate with losses experienced. The administration will continue to accept applications for B2B grants through October 13, 2021.

“To help the most vulnerable small businesses in Illinois recover from the pandemic, our Back to Business (B2B) program provides grants to assist with operational costs like payroll, rent, and working capital,” said DCEO Acting Director Sylvia Garcia. “Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership – we are working to accelerate the recovery of small businesses that are the backbone of our economy and a pathway to economic opportunity for so many Illinoisans. For any businesses out there who have yet to receive or who are still in need of assistance –the State of Illinois and our partners stand ready to help you apply for these funds before the October 13deadline – awards are being made on a rolling basis, so don’t wait, apply today.”

The first wave of funds announced today has reached businesses that are most in need of support due to the pandemic. The breakdown of the grants made thus far includes:

• 81 percent of funds provided for businesses which applied to the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) program, but did not receive funding
• 71 percent to businesses in disproportionately impacted areas (DIAs), or low-income zip codes that experienced high rates of COVID-19
• 66 percent to hard-hit industries, including restaurants and taverns, hotels, arts organizations, and salons
• Funds have primarily gone to the smallest businesses

o 54 percent going to businesses with revenue under $500,000 in 2019
o 74 percent going to businesses with revenue under $1 million

Building on efforts to shape an equitable recovery, of B2B funds deployed thus far, more than half have gone to minority-owned businesses. This includes 17 percent of grants made to Black owned businesses, 12 percent to Latinx owned businesses, 21 percent to Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI) owned businesses, and 1.2 percent to multiracial and/or Native American owned businesses. On average, recipients of B2B grants experienced revenue declines of 39 percent last year.

To make B2B grants more accessible to the most vulnerable businesses, DCEO has invested $9 million in a comprehensive outreach model leveraging support from over 100 trusted, local organizations – “community navigators” performing outreach and technical assistance with applications. To date, DCEO and the community navigators have conducted direct outreach to more than 125,000 unique businesses and have hosted hundreds of virtual and in-person canvass events. To find a community navigator near you, please visit the DCEO website.

“My thanks to the State of Illinois for the thoughtfulness that went into the Back to Business program,” said Chris Setti, CEO, Greater Peoria EDC, a community navigator. “The experiences learned from earlier programs helped shape an opportunity that was straightforward and clear in its goals, especially in helping those who had not been helped before. The addition of a statewide network of Community Navigators helped to ensure that every business had an opportunity for help."

"As a community navigator hub organization for DCEO, our organization has leveraged partners in the area to engage hundreds/thousands of small businesses around B2B recovery grants," said Courtney Yockey, President and CEO of the Effingham Regional Growth Alliance. "We are working on behalf of our region to ensure that the most vulnerable businesses are aware of this grant opportunity, to provide them support needed to get a grant, and to further Governor Pritzker's efforts to help businesses get back on track as part of our statewide recovery."

“Thanks to support by the State of Illinois, we will use our Back 2 Business grant to help pay our staff and cover the cost of inventory and produce that’s increased significantly as a result of the pandemic,” said Ezequiel Fuente, owner of Mi Tierra Restaurant in Little Village. “Like many family owned businesses in Little Village, Mi Tierra faced hard times last year, but we have been creative in finding safe ways to continue serving our popular Mexican cuisine for the community. This grant is a lifeline and will support us as we continue to fully reopen, bring back our staff, and provide excellent service to both our regular and new customers.”

The B2B program includes set asides for hard hit sectors, DIAs, as well as for businesses which have yet to receive small business relief - as required in statute set forth by the Illinois General Assembly. While many business types and industries may apply for B2B, businesses in the following sectors will be prioritized: restaurants and taverns, hotels, arts businesses and organizations, and more.

“These latest grants prioritize the business sectors and communities hardest hit by the pandemic so our economic recovery can be faster and more equitable," said House Majority Leader Greg Harris (D-Chicago). “I’m glad these grants are being distributed as expeditiously as possible to save jobs and revitalize the community businesses we all treasure."

“It has remained a top priority of mine to help all small businesses build back better,” said State Senator Elgie Sims (D-Chicago), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “And I’m especially eager to ensure dollars reach the communities hardest hit by the pandemic. This program serves as a support system for those who’ve struggled in receiving funding assistance in the past. I hope many of you take advantage of these additional resources and I look forward to the opportunity of making our small business owners’ voices heard.”

“The pandemic has further highlighted the financial fragility of many small businesses in communities of color,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago). “And I’m extremely proud of the work done by the General Assembly to restore dollars in our most vulnerable communities. The Back 2 Business Program will act as stimulus to give our businesses the resources to come back stronger and more resilient. I encourage those in need of additional assistance to take advantage of this opportunity. Please do not wait until it’s too late.”

“In the past months, I’ve had the pleasure to meet hardworking and innovative small business owners in my district that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic,” said State Representative Edgar Gonzalez (D-Chicago). “It's imperative that we continue to push for businesses in communities of color to apply for the B2B grant and provide technical assistance along the way. To my Latino community, I urge you to apply, this will help ensure our communities continue to thrive.”

Businesses with revenues of $5 million or less as well as those who did not receive an award during the BIG program also receive preference during the review period, with $25 million set aside for businesses which applied but did not receive funding through that program. Additionally, businesses located within DIAs, are being prioritized, with more than $100 million in funds set aside for these zip codes.

DCEO and its grant administrator partner, Allies for Community Business (A4CB) will make awards on a rolling basis, according to priority criteria mentioned above. To help businesses apply, A4CB has launched a new and easy-to-use customer portal, allowing applicants to track and learn updates on their application status in real-time.

“We are thankful for all of the hard work that the Governor and his team have invested thus far in designing and executing a huge, fast, and thoughtful grant program,” said Brad McConnell, CEO of Allies for Community Business. “We have much more work to do, and we look forward to serving thousands of additional small businesses throughout Illinois in the coming weeks.”

To be considered for a grant, applicants must demonstrate a reduction in revenue in 2020, compared to 2019, and annual revenues of no more than $20 million in 2019. Businesses must also provide two bank statements, a business owner ID, and federal tax returns for 2019 and 2020.

Since the onset of the pandemic, the Pritzker administration has efficiently granted relief for businesses and communities hit hardest during the pandemic. B2B builds on the success of the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) small business emergency relief program from earlier this year, which provided $290 million to more than 9,000 businesses in 98 counties statewide. The largest of its kind economic support program at the time, the BIG program also provided more than 4,000 childcare business provider grants. In total, the state’s childcare and other small business relief grants will provide more than $1.5 billion to childcare providers, bars and restaurants, entertainment venues, hotels, and other hard-hit small businesses across the state.

For more information on the B2B program, or for assistance with the application, please visit DCEO’s website.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATES: Congressional Maps; IDES Login; State Fair Attendance

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 15:49:40 GMT

Democrats Accepting Congressional Map Proposals Ahead of October Hearings

Democrats in the Illinois House and Senate are now accepting proposed congressional district maps from the public through their online map making portals.

In a press release, the lawmakers said they plan to hold a series of public hearing in October to gather input on the Congressional maps. Both the House and Senate are expected to pass a new congressional map during the upcoming veto session Oct. 19-21 and Oct. 26-28.

“It’s never been more important that every resident of Illinois has a strong voice in Congress, and that starts with ensuring everyone has a voice in the mapmaking process,” Elizabeth Hernandez (D-Cicero) chair of the House Redistricting Committee, said in a statement. “This mapmaking tool gives everyone the opportunity to share their thoughts and help us create districts that reflect our state.”

“Now is the time for residents across Illinois to make their voices heard to ensure our state has strong representation in Washington,” Omar Aquino (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, said in a statement. “We encourage residents to take advantage of these opportunities to directly participate in the map making process, as the best map is one that reflects the diverse voices across our state.”

Per the state’s slight population loss in the 2020 U.S. Census, Illinois will be losing one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, sending just 17 members to Congress under the redistribution of seats.

The map making portal can be accessed at www.ilsenateredistricting.com and www.ilhousedems.com/redistricting.

IDES Launches New, Secure Login System for Unemployment Insurance

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology have launched a new login system for the state’s unemployment insurance benefit system aimed at making the login process more simple and secure.

The new ILogin system including multi-factor authentication and identity proofing, in addition to other technology, in order to protect accounts and prevent fraud.

“IDES is excited to integrate ILogin to its unemployment insurance benefit system and provide claimants with a more simplified, secure account,” IDES Acting Director Kristin Richards said in a statement.

“Account and identity protection is top of mind for the Department, particularly as personal information was taken advantage of at such an unprecedented rate nationwide during the pandemic. ILogin will enhance existing protections for users and increase the Department’s ability to monitor and track fraudulent user activity within the system.”

Returning claimants will be required to complete an additional account set-up with the new system while new claimants will be required to undergo an identity-proofing process in addition to account set-up.

Total 2021 State Fair Attendance Down from 2019

More than 472,000 individuals visited the Illinois State Fair in Springfield earlier this year, falling behind the record-breaking numbers the fair pulled in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Illinois State Fair announced Tuesday.

A record 508,900 individuals visited the 2019 fair, 7.2 percent more than this year. However, the fair’s opening weekend saw attendance increase by more than 15,000 over 2019 numbers.

“We were happy to be able to hold the 2021 Illinois State Fair after it was canceled in 2020 and now seeing how many people came out to enjoy it with us is really special,” Illinois State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon said in a statement. “Obviously this being the first fair after 2019’s near record setting year for attendance, the bar was set pretty high. I think being able to overcome the challenges brought on by the pandemic and safely bring back so many families to the fairgrounds is a great accomplishment.”

Next year’s Illinois State Fair will run Aug. 11-21, 2022.

UPDATE: House Passes Omnibus Energy Legislation, Senate Will Return Monday

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:41:51 GMT

The Illinois House Thursday reached a deal with all major stakeholders and Gov. J.B. Pritzker and passed landmark energy legislation that will keep two major nuclear power generators open and set a course for a 100 percent renewable energy-powered state.

The House voted 83-33 to pass SB2408 (Harris), which is supported by environmentalists of the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC), Climate Jobs Illinois (CJI) labor unions, renewable energy groups of the Path to 100 coalition, the Sierra Club, the Illinois Environmental Council, and the Governor.

House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) thanked the stakeholders and members who worked on this deal and said the bill will save Illinois jobs, support a clean climate, and hold public utilities accountable.

“We're helping communities all over this state, we're helping people. That's why we're here tonight. Let's put the rhetoric aside, the politics aside. Think about the people that we all represent. That's why we're here tonight. What we have done here today is monumental. And it should be celebrated, not castigated. It's historic and it will positively impact people in each and every one of our districts,” Welch said. “Our climate cannot wait. Climate change is going to cost us more if we don't act now.”

The bill now goes back to the Senate for concurrence. In a statement, Senate President Don Harmon said the Senate will return Monday, Sept. 13 to take up the bill.

“The shared goal among the Senate, House, and Governor Pritzker has been to position Illinois as a national leader on reliable, renewable, and affordable energy policies. This proposal accomplishes that shared goal. I commend the work the House has done to build on the progress the Senate had made,” he said.

In a statement, Pritzker said he plans to sign SB2408 following its passage in the Senate.

“Today, with the House passage of SB2408, the State of Illinois is one historic step closer to reaching a 100 percent clean energy future. For many years, comprehensive energy legislation that puts consumers and the climate first has been debated while scientists around the world have sounded the alarm about the growing impacts of climate change. SB2408 puts the state on a path toward 100% clean energy and invests in training a diverse workforce for the jobs of the future. Illinois will become the best state in the nation to manufacture and drive an electric vehicle, and equity will be prioritized in every new program created. The days of utility companies writing energy legislation to pad their profits has ended because SB2408 puts consumers and climate at the forefront, prioritizes meaningful ethics and transparency reforms, and institutes key ratepayer and residential customer protections,” the governor said in a statement.

SB2408 with House Floor Amendment No. 2 & 4 includes the elimination of formula ratemaking, subsidies allowing the Exelon-owned Dresden and Byron nuclear plants to stay operational, creation of a clean energy goal of 100 percent renewable by 2050 and 50 percent by 2040, closure of all private natural gas facilities by 2045, requires Prairie State and Springfield City, Water, Light, and Power (CWLP) plants to reduce their emissions by 45 percent by 2035 and 100 percent by the end of 2045.

It also adds empowers the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to provide better oversight of utilities in several ways. It includes multiple provisions related to ethics, ensuring that families in disadvantaged communities are not adversely impacted by the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Additionally, utilities will be required to create a chief compliance officer position that reports to the ICC.

New in this version of the energy deal are provisions specifically would allow the state to provide Prairie State and CWLP $20 million per year to help reduce their emissions to meet those goals. Also, if they miss the 45 percent reduction target by 2035, the plants will be allowed three years to hit the target or be forced to close at least one of their generators. Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Belleville) said House Amendment No. 4 allowed Prairie State and CWLP to switch their position to “neutral” on the legislation.

In a press conference following session, Hoffman said he expects upcoming federal infrastructure language to include support for carbon capture technology that would help the plants reach their targets.

Republicans largely opposed the bill, arguing that similar legislation in the past has led to broken promises. They argued that the move away from fossil fuels in Illinois will lead to more reliance on out-of-state energy and foreign investment. They also shared concerns about grid reliability, pointing to the recent challenges faced in states like Texas and California. Several accused Democrats leaving local leaders and other stakeholders out of the negotiation process. Others said that citizens will end up footing the bill for the bill’s many reforms and generator closures.

Several Republicans brought up the issue of eminent domain, saying that too often private, for-profit wind and solar companies are able to use the power to claim constituents’ land unfairly.

Tim Butler (R-Springfield) said that Democrats were not doing what they intend to do by passing this legislation and said that the fossil fuel plants that have gone up in the past several years are some of the cleanest in the country.

“This is not the right path forward. When you turn off these power plants in Southern Illinois and mind you, the [Midcontinent Independent System Operator], the power grid that covers most of Illinois geographically -- when you turn off these power plants, we're going to be getting power from that coal plant I saw just across the river in Indiana last week and that coal plant that I saw just across the river in Kentucky last week. 50 percent of the energy generated by MISO comes from coal. You're not doing what you think you're doing with this bill. You're putting people out of work, you're raising rates for my constituents, and you're shutting things down that shouldn’t be shut down,” Butler said.

Several Republicans voted in favor of the bill, including Reps. Tom Bennett (R-Pontiac), Tom Demmer (R-Dixon), Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee), Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett), Mark Luft (R-Pekin), Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore), Martin McLaughin (R-Lake Barrington), Tony McCombie (R-Savanna), Bradley Stephens (R-Chicago), and Keith Wheeler (R-North Aurora).

Rep. David Welter (R-Morris) also supported the bill as the Dresden nuclear power plant resides in his district. However, he said Republicans were cut out of the negotiation process and that the bill does not do enough to resolve public debts held by municipalities, the cost of which may be passed onto residents. Several Republicans said they felt “held hostage” by coupling the nuclear energy subsidies with renewable energy reforms they don’t support.

ICJC praised the bill’s passage in a statement.

“After years of hard work and community collaboration, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition applauds this significant leap forward on climate change and nation-leading equity standard that assures every part of the state shares in the promise of the clean energy economy. This urgent, job-creating plan puts Illinois on a path to a 100% clean energy future while providing a just transition for workers and communities historically dependent on dirty fossil fuels, enacting some of the toughest utility accountability measures in the nation, and creating jobs and wealth in Illinois’ Black and Brown communities, which are often the first to suffer negative consequences of pollution but the last to reap the health and economic benefits of a clean energy future,” the Illinois Clean Job Coalition said.

ICJ issued the following statement:

“Our coalition has reviewed the proposed amendment and supports the current version of the bill. The legislation sets the strongest clean energy labor standards in the country, requiring project labor agreements on all utility-scale wind and solar projects and sets prevailing wages for non-residential projects. These provisions will raise the standard for other states seeking to enact new labor and employment policies for building and maintaining clean energy developments.

The bill will create thousands of new clean energy union jobs, expand union apprenticeships for Black and Latinx communities, increase energy efficiency for public schools and safeguard thousands of union workers at the state’s nuclear plants that currently generate the bulk of Illinois’ zero-emissions energy. These key components were our top priorities in any clean energy legislation enacted, so we are pleased with the result.”

The bill is not without its opponents. In a statement, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce said the bill would result in a massive hike for ratepayers.

“As the Illinois House of Representatives returns to Springfield today to take up a comprehensive energy proposal, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce urges legislators to oppose recently proposed language that takes an already flawed proposal – one that will dramatically increase costs and call reliability into question – but then doubles down by throwing an additional $200 million more at a ‘solution’ that solves nothing,” the chamber said.

Similarly, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) characterized the bill as a rate hike.

“The governor and lawmakers are about to hit businesses and families in the pocketbook with the largest electric rate hike in our state’s history. At a time when our elected official should be helping our state recover from the pandemic, they are eliminating one of our key strategic advantages, which is low-cost and reliable energy,” IMA President and CEO Mark Denzler said in a statement.

The House Thursday also voted 74-41 to accept the governor’s amendatory veto to SB539 (Gillespie) the omnibus ethics bill. Republicans again opposed the bill, arguing that its reforms do not go far enough.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Proposed Redistricting Maps Released

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 20:32:04 GMT

A new round of proposed legislative maps have been released by the House and Senate Democrats Monday - August 30, 2021.

The House maps can be found HERE.

The Senate maps can be found HERE.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Governor Pritzker Announces COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Healthcare Workers, Pre-K-12 Teachers and Staff, Higher Education Personnel and Students to Slow Spread of Delta Variant

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 14:38:14 GMT

Please see below press release from Governor Pritzker.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, August 26, 2021

All Illinois Residents Required to Wear Masks Indoors, Regardless of Vaccination Status

Downstate Communities with Lower Vaccination Rates Experiencing Sharp Increase in COVID-19 Hospitalizations

CHICAGO – As COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates across the state continue to increase, particularly in downstate communities with the lowest vaccination rates, Governor JB Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike today announced vaccination requirements for individuals in high risk settings. All healthcare workers, including nursing home employees, all pre-k-12 teachers and staff, as well as higher education personnel and students will now be required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Employees in all of these settings and higher education students who are unable or unwilling to receive the vaccine will be required to get tested for COVID-19 at least once per week, and DPH and ISBE may require increased testing in certain situations.

The Governor and Dr. Ezike also announced a statewide indoor mask mandate for all Illinois residents, regardless of vaccination status, as COVID-19 cases and hospitalization rates continue to increase. The masking requirements are effective Monday, August 30th.

The public health requirements come as regions with low vaccination rates continue to see a surge of COVID-19 hospitalizations. In IDPH region 5, Southern Illinois, with the lowest vaccination rate in the state at 44 percent, only 3% of ICU beds are available as the region experiences the highest case rate in the state. Since August 1st, local health departments across the state have reported 27 COVID-19 outbreaks at schools and currently hundreds of schools are being monitored for potential COVID-19 exposures.

“The quick spread of this disease in Illinois and across the country is holding us all back from the post-pandemic life we so desperately want to embrace, and it’s harming the most vulnerable among us,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We are running out of time as our hospitals run out of beds. Vaccination remains our strongest tool to protect ourselves and our loved ones, to restore post-pandemic life to our communities, and most crucially, to maintain our healthcare system’s ability to care for anyone who walks through their doors in need of help – and Illinois is taking action to keep our communities safe.”

“Unlike the wave of COVID-19 we saw earlier this Spring, we’re now seeing our hospital resources stretched thin with some areas of Illinois reduced to only a handful of available ICU beds,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “The vast majority of hospitalizations, as well as cases and deaths, are among those who are unvaccinated. This has become a pandemic of the unvaccinated. We have safe, proven, and effective tools to turn the tide and end this pandemic. But until more people are vaccinated, masks are the order of the day and will help us slow the spread of the virus.”

COVID-19 Vaccination

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pritzker administration has implemented policies and guidelines in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to slow the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of residents. With the Delta variant causing a rapid increase in infection rates across the state and nation and downstate hospitals in Illinois approaching capacity for hospital and ICU beds, employees in high risk settings will now be required to receive the vaccine or be subject to routine testing. Earlier this month, the administration announced that employees at all State-run congregate facilities would be required to be vaccinated.

To lower the number of breakthrough cases that require hospital admission, the majority of whom are 65 and over or immunocompromised, all healthcare workers, including workers at public and private nursing homes, must get vaccinated. Teachers and staff at pre-k-12 schools as well as personnel and students at higher education institutions are required to receive the vaccine. Workers and students in applicable settings must receive the first dose of a two-dose vaccination series or a single-dose vaccination by September 5, 2021. Second doses of the vaccine must be received by 30 days after the first dose.

Workers who do not receive the vaccine or those who opt out for medical reasons or based on a sincerely held religious belief must follow a routine testing schedule to detect cases early and prevent further spread. Testing will be required a minimum of once per week in schools and healthcare facilities. The frequency of testing may be required to increase in the event of positive cases.

Healthcare, school workers, and higher education personnel and students attending in-person classes who do not provide proof of vaccination will be prevented from entering healthcare and educational facilities unless they follow the required testing protocol.

The COVID-19 vaccine has been available for healthcare and nursing home workers since December 15, 2020, and open to teachers since January 25, 2021. To increase ease of access for all residents, the Pritzker administration established 25 mass vaccination sites across the state that were run by members of the Illinois National Guard (ILNG) who administered 1,869,755 shots to residents across the state. Additionally, teams of ILNG members supported over 800 mobile vaccination clinics across the state on top of an additional 1,705 state-supported mobile sites that focused on communities hardest hit by the pandemic, young residents, and rural communities.

The administration also launched vaccination clinics in communities experiencing high case rates. Clinics were set up in central locations within communities including schools and houses of worship and were also present at community events and, most recently, the Illinois State Fair and upcoming Du Quoin Fair.
Building on these efforts to make access to the COVID-19 vaccine equitable and easy, the administration has offered support to every school district in the State in the form of free mobile vaccination events. So far, the administration has hosted 138 school-focused event with another 163 scheduled for the coming days and weeks.

Mask Requirement

To slow the spread of the highly transmissible COVID-19 Delta variant, all Illinois residents over the age of two will be required to wear a mask in all indoor settings, effective Monday, August 30th. The requirement is applicable to both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents statewide. Countless studies have demonstrated the efficacy of masks at preventing the spread of COVID-19, with the CDC identifying at least 10 that confirm the benefit of universal masking via community level analyses – including two U.S. states – in addition to observational, economic, epidemiological, and cross-sectional survey studies. A small sampling can be found below:

“Community Use of Face Masks And COVID-19: Evidence From A Natural Experiment of State Mandates In The US” found an estimated overall initial daily decline in new diagnoses of 0.9% grew to 2.0% at 21 days following mandates.
“Trends in County-Level COVID-19 Incidence in Counties With and Without a Mask Mandate — Kansas, June 1–August 23, 2020” studied a Kansas executive order requiring mask wearing in public spaces from which county authorities could opt out. The estimated case rate per 100,000 decreased by 0.08 in counties with mask mandates but increased by .11 in those without.
“Association of Country-wide Coronavirus Mortality with Demographics, Testing, Lockdowns, and Public Wearing of Masks”evaluated 169 countries on per-capita mortality on potential predictors including age, gender, obesity prevalence, temperature, urbanization, smoking, duration of the outbreak, lockdowns, viral testing, contact-tracing policies, and public mask-wearing norms and policies. Duration of mask wearing by the public was negatively associated with per-capita mortality from COVID-19.

While face coverings are not required outdoors, masks are strongly encouraged in crowded outdoor settings like festivals and concerts as well as for activities that require close contact with people who are not vaccinated.

These latest vaccine, testing, and mask requirements are a floor in the state’s efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Employers, schools, and other organizations can take additional health and safety steps to help bring an end to the ongoing pandemic. Governor Pritzker previously announced more stringent requirements regarding vaccination and testing for state employees at state run 24-7 congregate living facilities to protect the state’s most vulnerable residents. Leaders in the private sector are encouraged to follow suit.

Vaccination is the key to ending the COVID-19 pandemic and returning to normal life. All Illinois residents over the age of 12 are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost and proof of immigration status is not required to receive the vaccine. To find a vaccination center near you, go to vaccines.gov.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Pritzker Signs Series of Education, Student Safety Bills

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 20:26:34 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker recently signed a series of bills dealing with education, student safety, and equity among other issues.

On Aug. 20, Pritzker signed SB818 (Villivalam) and HB24 (West), expanding sexual health education in schools. SB818 adds new, voluntary personal health and safety education standards for grades kindergarten through 5th grade and more inclusive education for grades 6 through 12. These standards will include education on concepts like consent and self-advocacy. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) will develop the standards and make them available online by Aug. 1, 2022.

“No student should feel stigmatized or excluded in the classroom,” Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) said in a statement. “This legislation puts forth guidelines for an inclusive, culturally competent curriculum to keep students safe and healthy.”

HB24 requires sex education classes to include discussions regarding sexting, including the legal and social consequences of sharing sexually explicit content, identifying bullying and harassment because of sexting, and identifying people who can help those dealing with the consequences of sexting.

The governor also signed HB102 (Carroll), which establishes comprehensive guidelines for schools to follow when assisting students with serious allergies. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will work along with ISBE and Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to create the Childhood Anaphylactic Policy.

“Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can include a wide range of symptoms and can start quickly causing a life-threatening emergency,” IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said in a statement. “Allergic reactions can be unpredictable as to when they occur, the type of symptoms, and the severity of symptoms. Because anaphylaxis can occur at any age, including children, it is important for teachers and staff in schools and day cares to know the signs of an allergic reaction and be prepared to act. IDPH will convene allergy experts and pediatricians to develop a policy to help schools and day cares protect children from severe allergic reactions.”

On Aug. 23, Pritzker signed SB1085 (Villanueva), SB815 (Lightford), and HB3359 (Bos). SB1085, Educational Planning Services Consumer Protection Act, creates new consumer protections for prospective college students. It sets guidelines for the terms that can be included in a contract for education planning services, requires that college planning providers translate all disclosures and documents involved in the services, and prohibits providers from charging enrollment or maintenance fees. The bill is effective Jan. 1, 2022.

“The transparency created by this bill will be a breath of fresh air for people in communities who have been generationally preyed upon by unscrupulous educational planning services,” said Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago). “In the pursuit of the American dream way too many Illinoisans, especially those who are first generation Americans and from low-income communities have been sold a bill of goods that has hampered them with extraordinary amounts of debt for the rest of their lives. Illinois has become a leader in protecting our citizens from these actors and their bad practices.”

SB815 creates the Commission on Equitable Public University Funding, which will study the allocation of state funds to public universities and make recommendations to the General Assembly and publish findings by July 1, 2023. The bill is effective immediately.

HB3359 allows a student’s personal support worker to attend classes with the student and prevents the Illinois Board of Higher Education from charger the worker tuition or fees

“Thanks to the Governor and sponsors of HB 3359, this legislation enables students with disabilities to have the support they need in the classroom and allows for an educational environment where students and adults can thrive, in a thoughtful collaborative, and truly inclusive experience,” said Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Grace Hou.

“Unfortunately, discrimination against the disabled still occurs today, which is why this legislation is so important,” Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Lake Zurich) said in a statement. “This sad reality is personal to me as this discrimination happened to a constituent who was denied an opportunity for an education because of his disability, which requires him to have a support worker for assistance. Sadly, this young man was turned away from two local colleges because they wouldn’t allow his support worker to sit with him in class unless the support worker also paid tuition. This is just plain wrong. Discrimination has absolutely no place in our higher education system. Everyone should have the ability for continued education, regardless of their disability. This new law is one step toward pushing disability rights forward here in Illinois. I hope that now no other disabled person will suffer in a similar manner.”

HB3359 is effective immediately.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Legislative Action Updates

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 14:28:45 GMT

55 ILCS 5 - Counties Code.

SB2278COUNTIES CD-PUBLIC SAFETY (Stadelman, S) Amends the Counties Code. Provides that a county that is authorized to impose a Special County Retailers' Occupation Tax For Public Safety, Public Facilities, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, or Transportation shall establish a 7-member mental health board, which shall have the same powers and duties and be constituted in the same manner as a community mental health board established under the Community Mental Health Act. Provides that moneys from the special county retailers' occupation tax that are earmarked for mental health or substance abuse purposes shall be deposited into a special county occupation tax fund for mental health and substance abuse. Provides that that fund shall be administered by the 7-member mental health board.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 55 ILCS 5/5-1006.5;

65 ILCS 5 - Illinois Municipal Code.

SB2150FIREFIGHTER EXAMINATION AGE (Bailey, D) Amends the Illinois Municipal Code and the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that a person 35 years of age or older who has served a municipality as a regularly enrolled volunteer, paid-on-call, or part-time firefighter is eligible to take an examination for a position as a firefighter (removing a requirement the volunteer, paid-on-call, or part-time work was 5 years immediately preceding the time that the municipality begins to use full-time firefighters to provide all or part of its fire protection service). Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 65 ILCS 5/10-1-7.1; 65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-6.3;

735 ILCS 5 - Code of Civil Procedure.

SB2179PERSONAL ACTIONS-ATTORNEYS (Sims, E) Amends the Limitations Article of the Code of Civil Procedure. Provides that an attorney malpractice action in which the injury did not occur until the death of the person for whom the professional services were rendered may not be commenced in any event more than 6 years after the date the professional services were performed. Provides, with exceptions, that the changes apply to every cause of action, regardless of the date that the cause of action accrues.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 735 ILCS 5/13-214.3;

740 ILCS 110 - Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act.

SB1970ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH INFO (Fine, L) Amends the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act. Provides for the limited disclosure of protected mental health information of a recipient who is an inpatient of a mental health facility related to an individual's involvement with the recipient's mental health care or payment related to the recipient's mental health care. Provides eligibility factors for an individual seeking the disclosure of the information. Provides that whenever the disclosure of information is made without consent, the recipient shall be provided with written disclosure and afforded an opportunity to designate an agent or an attorney-in-fact, and documentation of the disclosure or use shall be noted in the recipient's record. Provides that once the recipient regains the capacity for informed consent, the provisions no longer apply and any allowance for the exchange of information between individuals and the medical personnel is terminated. Restricts an individual who receives information from redisclosing the information except under limited circumstances. Provides that any person who knowingly and willfully violates the provisions is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Provides that nothing in the new provisions shall be interpreted to allow a disclosure that is otherwise prohibited under any other State law or any federal law concerning informed consent.

Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 740 ILCS 110/5.5 new;

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Legislative Actions

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 14:10:43 GMT

HB1765	OPEN MEETINGS-BACKGROUND CHECK (Buckner, K) Creates the Empowering Public Participation Act. Provides that a law enforcement agency or an officer employed by a law enforcement agency may not knowingly and intentionally conduct a background check of a person for the sole reason of that person speaking at an open meeting of a public body, including police disciplinary boards. Provides exemptions whenever an agency or officer develops a reasonable suspicion of criminal conduct or a reasonable suspicion of a threat to security for the premises in which the meeting is to occur or for the protection of public officials and other persons attending the meeting. Provides that a violation of the prohibition is a Class C misdemeanor. Effective immediately.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

HB3911	FIRST RESPONDERS TASK FORCE (Hurley, F) Amends the First Responders Suicide Prevention Act. Provides that the First Responders Suicide Prevention Task Force shall make specified recommendations to specified entities.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB58	REVENUE-VEHICLES (Muñoz, A) Amends the Use Tax Act and the Retailers' Occupation Tax Act. Provides that, beginning on January 1, 2022, the term "selling price" no longer includes the value of traded-in motor vehicles. Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Defines "utility trailer". Provides for a flat weight trailer tax of $36 for utility trailers. Decreases the flat weight tax for Class TA trailers from $118 to $36. Increases the certificate of title fee for vehicles other than all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, motor homes, mini motor homes, and van campers from $150 to $155 and provides that the additional fee amount shall be deposited into the Road Fund. In a Section concerning the use tax on motor vehicles, makes changes concerning the amount of the tax. Effective January 1, 2022.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB583	FOIA-CLERK OF COURT (Hastings, M) Amends the Local Records Act. Provides that reports and records of the obligation, receipt, and use of public funds of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook Count are public records available for inspection by the public. Amends the Clerks of Courts Act. Provides that the clerk of the court shall (rather than may) accept credit card payments over the Internet for specified payments. Amends the Criminal and Traffic Assessment Act. Provides that one hour of public or community service shall be equivalent to $10 (rather than $4) of assessment.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB1721	PROP TAX-DELINQUENT PROPERTY (Stadelman, S) Amends the Property Tax Code. In provisions about delinquent property, provides that a county may take steps necessary (currently, shall take all steps necessary) to acquire title to the property and may manage and operate the property, including, but not limited to, mowing of grass, removal of nuisance greenery, removal of garbage, waste, debris or other materials, or the demolition, repair, or remediation of unsafe structures. Provides costs to be distributed to taxing districts, including operation and maintenance costs and all costs associated with county staff and overhead used to perform the duties of the trustees. Reduces the maximum penalty bids for the annual tax sale from 18% to 12%. In provisions about redemption of property, limits the assessments of penalties from every 6 months to 12 months. Makes conforming changes. Amends the Counties Code and Illinois Municipal Code. Modifies the requirements to have a circuit court declare property abandoned.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB1740	DHFS-MEDI-CAR SERVICE-SAFETY (Jones, III, E) Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that, if they meet the established training components set forth by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, providers of non-emergency medi-car and service car transportation that are either directly or through an affiliated company licensed by the Department of Public Health shall be approved to have in-house safety programs for training their own staff.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB1830	SCH CD-FINANCIAL LITERACY (Loughran Cappel, M) Amends the Courses of Study Article of the School Code. Provides that of the 2 years of social studies required to receive a high school diploma, one semester, or part of one semester, may include a financial literacy course beginning with pupils entering the 9th grade in the 2021-2022 school year and each school year thereafter. Effective immediately.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB2278	COUNTIES CD-PUBLIC SAFETY (Stadelman, S) Amends the Counties Code. Provides that a county that is authorized to impose a Special County Retailers' Occupation Tax For Public Safety, Public Facilities, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, or Transportation shall establish a 7-member mental health board, which shall have the same powers and duties and be constituted in the same manner as a community mental health board established under the Community Mental Health Act. Provides that moneys from the special county retailers' occupation tax that are earmarked for mental health or substance abuse purposes shall be deposited into a special county occupation tax fund for mental health and substance abuse. Provides that that fund shall be administered by the 7-member mental health board.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB2406	DCFS-RACIAL DISPARITIES REPORT (Belt, C) Amends the Circuit Courts Act. Reorganizes the counties (other than Cook County) into 24 (currently 23) judicial circuits. Provides that the General Assembly shall divide the 19th circuit into at least 10 subcircuits. Provides that, upon the division of the 19th circuit: each resident judgeship shall be assigned to the newly drawn subcircuit in which the judge of the resident judgeship in question resides; and each at-large judgeship shall be converted to a resident judgeship and be assigned to the subcircuit in which the judge of the converted judgeship in question resides. Provides that, when a vacancy occurs in a resident judgeship, the resident judgeship shall be allotted by the Supreme Court and filled by election. Provides that the 19th judicial circuit shall have additional resident judgeships to be allotted by the Supreme Court. Provides that in addition to the 2 judgeships filled by election at the 2022 election, any judgeship that became vacant after January 1, 2020 and on the effective date of the amendatory Act is held by an individual appointed by the Supreme Court shall also be filled by election at the 2022 general election. Provides that nothing in the provisions shall affect the tenure of any circuit judge serving on the effective date of the amendatory Act. Provides that no circuit judge serving on the effective date of the amendatory Act shall be required to change his or her residency in order to continue serving in office or to seek retention or reappointment. Provides that any circuit judge elected to that office prior to the effective date of the amendatory Act who files to run for retention after the effective date of the amendatory Act shall have the right to seek retention in the circuit the judge was elected from or to seek retention in the circuit created by the amendatory Act. Makes a conforming change in the Judicial Vacancies Act. Effective immediately.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

SB2515	GROUNDWATER PROTECTION-MAHOMET (Rose, C) Amends the Illinois Groundwater Protection Act. Creates the Mahomet Aquifer Council. Provides that 9 public members shall be appointed to the Council by the Governor, including 3 persons representing a nonprofit consortium dedicated to the sustainability of the Mahomet Aquifer, 5 persons representing local government bodies located over the Mahomet Aquifer, and one person from the University of Illinois Prairie Research Institute. Provides that the chairperson's term shall be for one year, and a Council member's term shall be for 3 years. Allows reimbursement to members for ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, except that such reimbursement shall be limited to expenses associated with no more than 4 meetings per calendar year. Requires the Agency to provide the Council with such supporting services as are reasonable for the performance of the Council's duties. Effective immediately.
	8/13/2021 - GOVERNOR APPROVED

NEW BILL TEXT OR AMENDMENTS FILED MATCHING YOUR TRACKED ILLINOIS COMPILED STATUTES

105 ILCS 5 - School Code.

HB219

SCH CD-TIME OUT-RESTRAINT (Carroll, J) Amends the School Code. Makes changes concerning the adoption of rules by the State Board of Education governing time out and physical restraint in the public schools. Subject to appropriation, requires the State Board to create a grant program for school districts and special education cooperatives and charter schools to implement school-wide, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed practices, positive behavioral interventions and supports, and restorative practices. Allows the State Board to contract with a third party to provide assistance with oversight and monitoring, and requires the State Board to establish reduction goals and a system of ongoing review, auditing, and monitoring. Makes changes in provisions concerning a school board's use of time out and physical restraint, including providing that isolated time out, time out, and physical restraint may be used only under certain circumstances, prohibiting the deprivation of necessities and prone, mechanical, and chemical restraint, and requiring a meeting with school personnel if requested by the parent or guardian, the provision of information to parents and guardians, and written procedures. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 105 ILCS 5/10-20.33; 105 ILCS 5/2-3.130; 105 ILCS 5/34-18.20;

NEWS UPDATE: State Requiring Masks at Public Schools, Vaccines Required for State Employees

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 02:53:30 GMT

All students and personnel at public schools in Illinois will be required to always wear a mask while indoors and many state employees will be required to receive a COVID-19 vaccine under new COVID-19 safety protocols announced by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today (Wednesday).

At an update Wednesday, Pritzker said the more contagious Delta variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 has led to a significant increase in cases and hospitalizations. This is particularly true for those who are unvaccinated or not eligible for a vaccine, prompting a need for universal masking in all Pre-K-12 schools.

“Throughout this pandemic, we've shifted public health protocols. As circumstances have changed and will continue to do so, we'll continue to watch for things like a significant reduction in transmission, the availability and utilization of vaccines for school aged children under 12, and additional guidance from the CDC. As we see developments in those areas, we will adjust our requirements for schools accordingly. Again, our goal has always been to make sure that every child can go to school this fall, and that the school environment is safe for everyone,” Pritzker said.

In addition to the mask requirement, IDPH Wednesday announced it is expanding free COVID-19 testing to all public schools outside of Chicago. Schools will have access the SHIELD saliva-based test, developed by the University of Illinois-Champaign, which can detect COVID-19 even in pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases.

IDPH is permitting schools that are requiring universal masking to use a “test-to-stay” program for those exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, as an alternative to quarantining. Students and teachers who are exposed can remain in school so as long as they test negative one, three, five, and seven days after exposure.

The state is requiring all state employees that work in congregate facilities such as veteran’s homes, prisons, and mental health care facilities. Pritzker said vaccination is necessary to protect those most vulnerable in these settings. He said that while residents at places like veteran’s homes have nearly 100 percent vaccination rates, the same cannot be said for employees.

“They run the risk of carrying the virus into work with them. Then it's the residents who are ending up seriously sick, hospitalized, or worse. It's a breach of safety, it's fundamentally wrong, and in Illinois, it's going to stop. We already require masks for everyone entering state facilities, but if we're going to fully protect our vulnerable populations, the most effective infection control measure is vaccination. It's our obligation to exercise due care and protect the health of those residents, and so we will,” Pritzker said.

He added that his administration is working with the relevant unions to work out the details and is offering incentives for vaccination, such as paid time off for employees. The deadline for employees working in these settings to receive a vaccine is Oct. 4, 2021.

Finally, the governor announced that the state will also require universal masking at all nursing homes and long-term care (LTC) facilities.

IDPH Wednesday also provided public access to COVID-19 vaccination data for residents and staff of LTC facilities. The data can be access through a new IDPH website that displays an interactive map show percent of staff or percentage or residents who have been vaccinated. The information can be found at http://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/long-term-care-facility-data.

The governor also said he applauds private companies like Google and Tyson that have announced a vaccine requirement as a condition of employment. He said there are no plans to require any companies make COVID-19 vaccines mandatory.

In statements from the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT), stakeholders said they support the masking requirement in schools and the governor’s interest in reducing COVID-19 spread through schools.

“We all want to get back to normal. Let’s pull together and take care of one another. Vax up and mask up. We owe it to our students and we owe it to each other,” said IEA President Kathi Griffin in a statement. “We’re so thankful to have leadership in this state that won’t let the virus fester and grow. But, it us up to all of us to bring COVID-19 to its knees.”

“Science tells us that a layered approach will go a long way towards helping keep schools open and students, staff, and communities safe. In addition to mask wearing, we strongly urge all school districts and institutions of higher education to employ additional safety measures, including physical distancing, regular handwashing, adequate building ventilation, and regular COVID testing of students and educators,” said IFT President Dan Montgomery in a statement.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) Wednesday released a statement in opposition to the governor’s actions, urging collaboration with the Legislature and local control of COVID-19 mitigations.

“For over a year, the Governor cut out a co-equal branch of government and ruled the state with unilateral authority instead of working collaboratively to handle the COVID-19 pandemic in Illinois. Governor Pritzker must put this continuing power trip aside and allow local health departments, elected officials, schools and most importantly, parents, to make decisions on these serious issues to help stop the spread of Covid-19,” Durkin said.

Addressing “breakthrough cases,” in which vaccinated individuals become sick with COVID-19, Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said that such cases remain incredibly rare, though no vaccine is 100 percent effective. Ezike said that, according to their data, .01 percent of those fully vaccinated have been hospitalized with COVID-19 and even fewer, .003 percent, of those fully vaccinated have perished.

“The overwhelming majority of cases, the hospitalizations, and the deaths are among those who are not vaccinated. The majority of transmission is also among the unvaccinated. Thus, the phrase: ‘It has become a pandemic of the unvaccinated.’ But the key is that we actually have the tools to turn the tide on the next wave. That next wave wants to threaten us if we don't avail ourselves of these tools. Let's do what's right, not just for ourselves, but for our neighbors and our entire communities,” Ezike said.

The executive order instituting these new requirements can be found attached.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

Bill Updates

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 02:53:06 GMT

Please see below public acts.

60 ILCS 1 - Township Code.

**SB1799 TWP CD-ACCUMULATION OF FUNDS (Cullerton, T) Amends the Township Code. Provides that general assistance funds are included in provisions prohibiting accumulation of township funds that exceed an amount equal to or greater than 2.5 times the annual average expenditure of the previous 3 fiscal years. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 60 ILCS 1/85-65;

820 ILCS 315 - Line of Duty Compensation Act.

**SB1650 LINE OF DUTY CLAIM DEADLINE (Rose, C) Amends the Line of Duty Compensation Act. Provides that a claim for a death benefit for a death occurring after December 31, 2016 and before January 1, 2021 may be filed no later than December 31, 2022. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 820 ILCS 315/3;

**SB1681 LINE OF DUTY-PROBATION OFFICER (Bennett, S) Amends the Line of Duty Compensation Act. Includes probation officers within the scope of the Act.
Bill Version: Public Act
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 820 ILCS 315/2;

NEWS UPDATE: Illinois Requiring Masks in ‘High Transmission’ Areas for COVID-19

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:42:21 GMT

The Illinois Department of Public Health Tuesday announced it was fully adopting the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) guidance recommending that everyone, including those vaccinated against COVID-19, wear masks in public indoor settings in areas of “substantial or high transmission.”

The new CDC guidance also recommends that all teachers, staff, students, and visitors at all schools use masks, regardless of vaccination status.

“While data continues to show the effectiveness of the three COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized in the U.S., including against the Delta variant, we are still seeing the virus rapidly spread among the unvaccinated,” IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said in a statement. “Cases and hospitalizations due to COVID-19 both continue to increase, overwhelmingly among the unvaccinated, but the risk is greater for everyone if we do not stop the ongoing spread of the virus and the Delta variant. We know masking can help prevent transmission of COVID-19 and its variants. Until more people are vaccinated, we join CDC in recommending everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask indoors in areas of substantial and high transmissions, and in K-12 schools.”

The CDC defines “substantial or high transmission” as those with more than 50 cases per 100,000 people over a 7-day period. That currently includes most of downstate and central Illinois, including the greater St. Louis area and Sangamon County, where Springfield is located. Cook County is currently seeing “moderate” transmission levels.

A map of community transmission rates by county can be found HERE.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: IDPH Adopts CDC Guidance for Schools; State Sues Chemtool over Fire

Sat, 10 Jul 2021 00:43:20 GMT

IDPH Adopts Eased COVID-19 Safety Recommendations for Schools

Masks will not be necessary for fully vaccinated students and faculty at Illinois schools after the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Friday updated its guidance to match that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Local superintendents and boards around the state had been urging IDPH to allow local control of COVID-19 safety procedures ahead of the new CDC guidelines released Friday. The CDC and IDPH recommend that all unvaccinated individuals, including those under the age of 12 who are not old enough yet to receive a vaccine, to continue wearing masks and using other prevention strategies like social distancing.

“Our goal is to protect the health of students, teachers, and staff so that in-person learning can resume as safely as possible,” IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said in a statement. “The CDC is right: vaccination is the best preventive strategy. As school board members, parents, teachers, and superintendents plan for a return to in-person learning in the fall, we strongly encourage those who are not vaccinated to continue to mask. IDPH is proud to fully adopt school guidance issued by CDC, which is based on the latest scientific information about COVID-19.”

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala has issued a declaration that all schools must resume in-person instruction this coming school year, with remote learning options available to those who have not or cannot yet receive a vaccine, or who are being quarantined.

The CDC and IDPH further recommend that schools continue screening for COVID-19, improving ventilation, practicing proper handwashing and respiratory etiquette, and using quarantining and contact tracing methods.

State Sues Chemtool Over Rockton Fire that Prompted Local Evacuation

Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Winnebago County State’s Attorney J. Hanley Friday filed a lawsuit against Chemtool Inc., alleging that the June 14 fire at the company’s facility released dangerous contaminants into the air and water that threatened local residents.

The fire burnt for several days at the facility where grease, lubricating oil and other fluids are manufactured. Local residents were evacuated, and the lawsuit alleges that Chemtool is liable for any damages caused by the fire and the costs the state and county incurred while responding to it.

“The Chemtool fire rattled the community, displaced residents, and took the combined resources and efforts of several fire departments to get under control. Although the flames have been extinguished, the hazard posed to the public and the environment continues, and Chemtool owes the community more information,” Raoul said in a statement. “My office, in collaboration with the Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s office will ensure that Chemtool is held responsible for evaluating the extent of the contamination and thoroughly remediating the damage.”

Separately Friday, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Illinois National Guard found that air and water quality remain safe in almost all the area. Only one wipe sample taken near the Chemtool property tested below safe levels for contaminants.

“After learning about the Chemtool fire in Rockton, I activated the Illinois National Guard and multiple other state agencies mobilized to provide resources and support to local authorities, working together with the shared goal of preserving the health and safety of community residents,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in a statement. “As we have in the days following the emergency, my administration will continue to work closely with local stakeholders as the community recovers.”

The Illinois EPA continues investigate in the area, and the Illinois Department of Public Health is coordination with the CDC and local health departments to monitor and identify any potential health effects.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Vaccine Lottery to Award $10 Million in Prizes, Scholarships

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 20:36:38 GMT

Illinois will award $10 million in cash prizes and college scholarships as part of a new vaccine lottery initiative aimed at improving vaccination rates, especially in those areas where they are disproportionately low.

The “All in for the Win” campaign will award cash $7 million in cash prizes ranging from $100,000 to $1 million and $3 million in $150,000 scholarships for vaccinated youth. All Illinoisans who have received their first dose by July 1st will be eligible for the first drawing on Thursday, July 8. Eligibility will be updated before each drawing.

“Illinois residents who got at least one vaccine dose will be automatically eligible to win. There's no sign-up, no forms, no waiting in line. You did your part already. And this is a way of saying thank you. It's also our way of saying to those who haven't yet been vaccinated: Please join us. Vaccines are incredibly effective, and they keep you protected, but they also make your community safer,” Pritzker said at a Thursday press conference.

The first drawing will award one $1 million prize from a statewide pool. Every following Monday will include three $100,000 winners. On August 12, two individuals will be chosen from each of the 11 Restore Illinois regions to receive $100,000 prizes. A grand finale drawing on Aug. 26 will award two additional $1 million prizes.

For those under 18 years old, 20 $150,000 Bright Start College Savings scholarships, equivalent to a full-ride at a four-year public university, will be awarded; Three will be awarded on July 8, and 17 will be awarded on Aug. 26, 11 of which will be distributed amongst the Restore Illinois regions.

All awards are being funded using federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars. The announcement follows the launch of similar programs in other states, beginning with the Vax-A-Million Lottery in Ohio that has distributed weekly $1 million awards and full-ride scholarships to public universities since May 26.

About 7.3 million individuals, nearly 70 percent of Illinois’ population, have received at least one dose of the vaccine as of Thursday.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said that the vaccine lottery is targeting the still-large number of people who maybe be dragging their feet to get a vaccine or have doubts about it.

“You may have people who have a religious or some other reason why they are never going to get vaccinated … I think that’s a smaller bucket. There are still many people who we call the ‘Moveable Middle’ where they just need a nudge if they haven’t done it yet. The chance to win $100,000 or $1 million or a college scholarship for their child can be the nudge they need to get them off their seat and get the vaccine,” Ezike said.

Donna Thompson, CEO of Access Community Health Network, said reaching those individuals during regular office visits will help increase vaccine outreach by allowing patients to have a one-on-one conversation with their providers about the vaccine’s safety and importance.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: House Sends FOID Overhaul, Budget Changes to Governor

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 02:37:16 GMT

The Illinois House of Representatives Wednesday voted to approve a bill that aims to address the state’s significant backlog of Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card applications and renewals while encouraging gun safety through increased fingerprinting and background checks.

The House voted 75-40 to approve Senate amendments to HB562 (Hoffman). The bill requires all gun sales, including private sales, to include federal background checks; creates an electronic version of the FOID card that will be easier for the Illinois State Police to process; sets an incentive for firearm owners to submit fingerprints to gain access to automatic renewals; and creates of a law enforcement task force that will seek out firearms carried by individuals with revoked FOID cards.

“We have gun violence all over the state. We have gun violence all over the country. I think gun violence should be treated like an epidemic just like the global [COVID-19] pandemic. That’s real. We passed the FOID bill today, we passed [Firearm Restraining Order] bill today, because we recognize that we need to continue to address these issues. Can more be done? I think so,” House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) said at a Wednesday evening press conference.

“The bipartisan legislation passed by the General Assembly is a hard-fought victory for Illinois gun violence prevention advocates and survivors that will save lives and support equity by investing in critical mental health services for the communities most impacted by gun violence. We are very grateful for the courageous work of our legislative leaders, which led to the development of this package of gun safety reforms,” said Kathleen Sances, President of Gun Violence Prevention PAC Illinois, in a statement.

The House also voted 71 to 44 to approve changes to the budget recommended by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in an amendatory veto issued Tuesday. The party-line vote was only made possible by a last-minute rule change that allowed several members to vote and participate remotely. Republicans criticized the move as an underhanded effort to fix errors that resulted from a rushed budget bill drafting process.

Welch said that this one-day session added to the successes of the 2021 session overall.

“We got it done because we have some great people in the House of Representatives, on both sides of the aisle,” Welch said.

On the FOID bill, sponsor Jay Hoffman (D-Belleville) noted that the Illinois Sheriffs Association was neutral on the bill, a rare occurrence on a bill supported by gun safety advocates. The bill passed with some Republican support, with Rep. Keith Wheeler (R-North Aurora) explaining that he still opposes the concept of FOID cards but supports the intent of the bill.

He said he specifically supports the parts of the bill that allow guns to be taken away from individuals with revoked FOID cards, saying such an individual fatally shot several people he had connections to within his district, including the son of a high school classmate of his.

“After reflecting on the broken and flawed process that we have right now regarding FOID card revocation, I engaged in lots of discussions with members on both sides of the aisle and with stakeholders across the spectrum on how we can fix this system. When someone loses their FOID card, we can actually do something about it --- we can make a difference. I made a commitment to my classmate that we as a body would someday actually make that difference through legislation,” Wheeler said.

Many Republicans said they supported parts of the bill that were ultimately outweighed by the parts they opposed. Others said the bill would not help improve gun safety, saying criminals will continue to skirt the FOID and federal background check systems.

In other business, the House voted to concur with Senate amendments on HB1092 (Stoneback), which would expand the pool of individuals who can ask a judge to apply a firearm restraining order upon someone who they fear may hurt themselves or others. Republicans similarly opposed the measure, calling it a “gun grab.”

The House also voted to approve, among other legislation, HB2643 (Hoffman), which provides amnesty for individuals who were overpaid unemployment insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic, and HB2908 (Ramirez), which phases-in a fully elected school board for Chicago Public Schools over successive elections in 2024 and 2026.

Those bills now head to Pritzker’s desk for final approval.

Members of the House Democratic team Wednesday evening also said that negotiations with stakeholders on energy legislation continue, but Rep. Ann Williams (D-Chicago) said that, despite the fact that no agreement has been reached, the process has been far more collaborative than in years past.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker Signs Bill Making Juneteenth State Holiday

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 02:36:32 GMT

Today Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation declaring June 19, also known as Juneteenth, a state holiday marking the abolition of slavery in the United States.

HB3922 (Ford) states that Juneteenth will be recognized as National Freedom Day in the state. All flags will be lowered to half-staff on Saturday, June 19, and a Juneteenth flag will be flown over the Capitol in Springfield.

“Just as Illinois led the nation as the first state to ratify the Thirteenth Amendment, in 2021, we are leading the nation in tackling structural racism head on thanks to the guiding vision of Leader Lightford, Representative Ford, Speaker Welch and the entire Illinois Legislative Black Caucus,” Pritzker said in a statement. “It brings me exceptional pride to sign into law the declaration of Juneteenth as a formal state holiday in Illinois, making us one of the few states in the nation to give it the full status it deserves.”

“Making Juneteenth a state holiday is a breakthrough in Illinois history,” Sen. Kimberly Lightford (D-Hillside) said in a statement. “It reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans and gives us an opportunity to celebrate our culture and achievements.”

The bill becomes effective Jan. 1, 2022, but the first paid state holiday celebrating Juneteenth will not come until Monday, June 19, 2023. The U.S. Senate Tuesday unanimously also passed a resolution marking the day as a federal holiday. If approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and President Joe Biden, the resolution will become law.

“Today, we can all stand proud that Illinois will officially recognize America’s second independence day,” House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) said in a statement. “As the first African-American Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, this moment will forever be a treasure in my heart, and I hope it will become a treasure for all Illinoisans. It’s a day of remembrance, but also a day of joy and perseverance.”

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Full Illinois Re-Opening Coming June 11

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:58:35 GMT

All Illinois businesses and activities will be allowed to re-open June 11, marking an end to COVID-19 safety mitigations, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Friday.

According to a press release, the new comes after several steady weeks of decreases in COVID-19 cases and vaccination numbers.

“After a tremendously challenging year, Illinois has now reached a defining moment in our efforts to defeat COVID-19,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Thanks to the hard work of residents across the state, Illinois will soon resume life as we knew it before – returning to events, gatherings, and a fully reopened economy, with some of the safety guidelines we’ve adopted still in place. As we fully reopen, this administration remains laser focused on ensuring a strong recovery for our small businesses and communities. Our FY22 budget invests $1.5 billion in small business relief, tourism, job-creating capital projects and more and we look forward to getting these dollars to communities across our state as quickly as possible.”

Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan will allow fully vaccinated Illinoisans to attends conventions, festivals and other events. Individuals will not be required to wear masks in most outdoors in most situations.

“This pandemic has robbed us of many of our freedoms such as going to ball games and concerts, celebrating graduations, weddings, and birthdays, going to dinner with friends, and even sharing a hug with loved ones we don’t live with,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “The vaccine is giving us our freedoms back and allowing us to move to Phase 5. Let’s keep the vaccination momentum going so we can put this pandemic in the rearview mirror and not look back.”

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Pritzker Approves Redistricting Maps

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:24:01 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday signed bills approving redistricting of the Illinois House and Senate, the Illinois Supreme Court, and the Cook County Board Review. He signed HB2777 (Hernandez), SB642 (Harmon), and SB2661 (Harmon).

“Illinois’ strength is in our diversity, and these maps help to ensure that communities that have been left out and left behind have fair representation in our government,” said Governor JB Pritzker in a statement . “These district boundaries align with both the federal and state Voting Rights Acts, which help to ensure our diverse communities have electoral power and fair representation.”

Republicans have pushed the governor to veto the maps, saying he broke a campaign promise by signing a bill with maps drawn by legislators.

“When J.B. Pritzker was a candidate for Governor, he made a lot of promises. He told us he was different, that he was a reformer, and that he would veto any map drawn by lawmakers. Today he broke his promise to voters and joins the all-too-long list of Illinois politicians who promise one thing and then do another,” Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) said in a statement.

“The people of Illinois deserve a fair, transparent process that allows them to choose their representatives in Government. Pritzker turned his back on them and chose instead to use his signature to further enshrine the broken status quo of politicians picking their voters.”

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Democrats Release Draft Supreme Court Map

Tue, 25 May 2021 21:57:01 GMT

The Democrat-controlled House and Senate Redistricting Committees Tuesday released their draft map of new Illinois Supreme Court districts, which substantially changes the regions electors will choose justices outside of the Chicago area.

An interactive map can be found HERE

Democrats say the rationale for the change is to equalize population between the five districts “to better reflect the population and demographic shifts that have occurred in the state of Illinois over the past 60 years.” The map was last drawn in 1963.

“The boundaries for Illinois Supreme Court districts have not been updated for several decades, it’s time we make changes in recognition of the population changes and demographic shifts that have taken place since the 1960s,” said Sen. Omar Aquino (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, in a statement. “Illinois is a very different state than it was sixty years ago, and the voters of Illinois deserve to elect members to our state’s highest court that reflect their values.”

Democrats took a political blow in Nov. 2020 when electors voted not to retain former Justice Thomas Kilbride in the Second Judicial District. Much of that district, which currently contains much of northern Illinois, has been split between districts four and two in the draft released Tuesday.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) said in a press conference Monday that Democrats would attempt to release a map that would shore up their political power in the Supreme Court.

“Last November, when Justice Kilbride was not retained, it sent shockwaves through the Illinois trail lawyers and labor unions and all the other people that are in the majority in Springfield. [They knew] that their days were numbered if that district was going to remain the same. Quite frankly, if they don’t change the district, the balance of power would go to Republicans. … I imagine within the next few weeks, there will be some type of map … that is going redraw that district to make it more appealing to Democrat voters,” Durkin said Monday.

Changing Supreme Court districts will likely result in major changes throughout the state, as the districts dictate where certain judicial precedents are applicable and the administration of appellate courts.

UPDATE: Pritzker, IDOT Announce Six-Year, $20 Billion Infrastructure Plan

Thu, 20 May 2021 18:34:02 GMT

Illinois workers will work on nearly 2,800 miles of roads and 7.9 million square feet of bridge deck as part of a new multi-year infrastructure plan announced Wednesday by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

Pritzker joined with legislative leaders on the Senate Transportation Committee and IDOT Acting Secretary Omer Osman to present the program in Springfield. Osman praised the work that IDOT was able to accomplish throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, while Pritzker said the upcoming investments in infrastructure will play a role in leading the state out of it.

“At the very start of the pandemic, for us in the transportation and essential services [sector], we worked tirelessly to maintain safe, reliable infrastructure. I consider the work we did to keep Illinois moving, helping with the movement of medical supplies and other critical resources … I consider that work to be heroic,” Osman said.

“This past year truly has brought home how important transportation systems are connecting the lives of our residents and our communities, delivering food products to grocery stores, getting essential workers to their jobs, and transporting patients to the hospital. That's equally true when it comes to setting forth a robust recovery from this pandemic: getting remote workers back to the office; expanding job opportunities for our hotel, hospitality, and recreation workers; encouraging businesses to invest here in Illinois; and, of course, attracting visitors to hit the road for a great American road trip,” Pritzker said.

The plan includes $5.79 billion for highway reconstruction and preservation, $4.82 billion for bridge improvements, $2.59 billion for strategic expansion, $1.43 billion for system support and land acquisition, and $1.21 billion for safety and system modernizations. Approximately $3.32 billion of this plan is planned for use in the upcoming fiscal year.

Pritzker also announced that full Amtrak Service will begin in Illinois on July 19. Four state-sponsored lines will also resume service, between Chicago and Milwaukee, Chicago and Quincy, Chicago and Carbondale, and Chicago and St. Louis.

Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, said that a data-driven focus on equity and help underserved communities is a key element of this plan, as it was when the General Assembly passed the Rebuild Illinois transportation budget in 2019.

“It is incredibly important that we continue to prioritize the factors of safety, economic development, accessibility, livability, environmental impact, congestion mitigation, and increased benefits to racially marginalized communities and low-to-moderate income communities. The projects that the governor and secretary are announcing today will maintain improve and expand our transportation and infrastructure network throughout the state,” he said.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker Signs COVID-19 Emergency Housing Assistance Bill

Tue, 18 May 2021 19:43:42 GMT

Illinois is launching a new framework for distributing housing assistance to both tenants and property owners as Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed key COVID-19 emergency housing legislation Monday.

HB2877 (Ramirez) creates a system to distribute nearly $1.5 billion in federal funds to renters and property owners through the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and extends key protections for renters, including sealing eviction records until Aug. 1, 2022.

At a press conference Monday, Pritzker said that the Illinois Rental Payment Program, overseen by IHDA, will support tenants who have lost income because of the COVID-19 pandemic by providing grants of up to $25,000 directly to landlords to cover rent dating back to June 2020 and up to through Aug. 2021.

“It was clear when we implemented last year’s housing relief programs that the need was far greater than the dollars allocated to our state. That’s why I’m pleased to announce today that Illinois is expanding rental relief to $1.5 billion, nearly 4 times the amount that was available last year,” Pritzker said. “The Illinois Rental Payment Program will ensure more than 120,000 household renters see relief, with more renters potentially being touched in the future, too. Any eligible resident who rents their home, is behind on payments, and experienced financial hardship in the pandemic is eligible to apply for up to $25,000 of rental assistance paid directly to their housing provider or landlord.”

Tenants are eligible if their 2020 income was below 80 percent of the area median income and have an unpaid rent balance. Priority is given to those who earn less than 50 percent of the area median income and to those who have been unemployed for at least 90 days.

In addition to the rental funds, the state will also be providing $400 million in mortgage assistance and using $280 million in federal and state funds to prevent utility service shutoff around the state.

“Families suffering from financial hardship should not have to worry about losing their homes. I’m proud to have taken action, with my colleagues in the General Assembly, preventing evictions and providing funding for the rent assistance working families need. Legislation like House Bill 2877 will give people experiencing housing distress the means to keep a roof over their heads as they seek better opportunities as the economy recovers from the pandemic,” said Sen. Omar Aquino (D-Chicago), sponsored the bill in the Senate.

HB2877 passed through the House on March 18 and through the Senate on April 29 with opposition from Republicans in both chambers.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Senate Republicans Say Dems’ Ethics Proposal Doesn’t Go Far Enough

Tue, 18 May 2021 19:42:48 GMT

Senate Republicans Monday said that the majority Democrats’ proposal for reforming ethics and rooting out public corruption in Illinois doesn’t go far enough, urging passage of their own legislation in the waning weeks of the General Assembly.

Senate Leader Dan McConchie (R-Lake Zurich), Sen. John Curran (R-Lemont), and Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) appeared at a statehouse news conference to urge quick action on SB1350 (Curran). McConchie invoked the words of Gov. J.B. Pritzker in his 2020 state-of-the-state address promising to “root out the purveyors of greed and corruption,” to demonstrate how Democrats have failed to address ethics reform.

“Since he spoke these words 14 months ago, the governor has sat idle on the sidelines. He has refused to put forward his own package and has failed to address the flames of corruption that continue to engulf this state. We’re tired of waiting; we’re tired of inaction. The governor has failed in many ways in his administration, and right now this is key among these,” McConchie said.

Curran said their bill expands on SB4 (Gillespie), the Democrat’s ethics bill, in four key ways: it allows the Illinois Attorney General to convene a statewide grand jury on matters of public corruption, it allows the Illinois Attorney General to seek judicial approval for wiretaps in public corruption investigations, allows the Legislative Inspector General to conduct investigations and submit subpoenas related to public corruption with the approval of the Legislative Ethics Commission, and bans legislators from lobbying and institutes a one-year revolving-door prohibition before a former legislator can begin lobbying state government.

Curran said that many of the recent scandals that have involved members of the General Assembly and particularly Democrats could have been brought to light and addressed sooner and more thoroughly.

“Let’s take [Commonwealth Edison] for example, and you're talking about wiretapping authority at the local level. That would have unleashed our 102 local prosecutors where these legislators go home and often conduct these deals in secret. Local authorities there would be able to actually start investigating and bring those matters before a grand jury,” Curran said, noting that federal authorities and local authorities in other states like New York already have many of these powers.

Curran also argued that the majority’s proposal for ethics reform has not received enough attention and work through the committee process, despite upcoming legislative deadlines. Tracy said that over a dozen ethics-related bills have been introduced by Senate Republicans, yet none have received a hearing.

“We need to mop out the dark corners, throw open the windows, and let some fresh air in to clear out the smoke-filled back rooms and blow the dust off the status quo. It is unfortunate that we seem to be meeting opposition, every step of the way in our effort to reform the process,” Tracy said. “We have two weeks left in session and the clock is simply running out."

Allison Richard
Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Fully Vaccinated Illinoisans Can Take off Masks in Most Settings

Mon, 17 May 2021 20:49:43 GMT

Illinoisans who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks in most settings, according to updated rules adopted by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health Monday.

Pritzker updated the state’s rules with Executive Order 21-10 following new guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The guidance still requires masks to be worn in health care settings, in Illinois schools, in daycare centers, in large congregations, and on public transit.

“Getting vaccinated is the ultimate protection from COVID-19 and the quickest ticket back to normal life,” Pritzker said in a statement. “With public health experts now saying fully vaccinated people can safely remove their masks in most settings, I’m pleased to follow the science and align Illinois’ policies with the CDC’s guidance. I also support the choice of individuals and businesses to continue to mask out of an abundance of caution as this pandemic isn’t over yet.”

Over the weekend, many large businesses such as national grocery chains announced that customers would no longer need to wear masks per CDC guidance. The rules also stipulate that individuals do not necessarily need to get tested for COVID-19 or quarantining if they are knowingly exposed but show no symptoms. Fully vaccinated individuals can also refrain from testing for international travel, unless their destination country requires screening.

The full text of the executive order is attached.

Allison Richard
Legislative Consultant

American Rescue Plan details

Fri, 14 May 2021 20:48:44 GMT

The US Department of Treasury released more details on the American Rescue Plan today. A link at the bottom will take you to the Federal website.

The American Rescue Plan will deliver $350 billion for eligible state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to respond to the COVID-19 emergency and bring back jobs.

The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds provide a substantial infusion of resources to help turn the tide on the pandemic, address its economic fallout, and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery.
Funding Objectives

Treasury is launching this much-needed relief to:

• Support urgent COVID-19 response efforts to continue to decrease spread of the virus and bring the pandemic under control
• Replace lost revenue for eligible state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to strengthen support for vital public services and help retain jobs
• Support immediate economic stabilization for households and businesses
• Address systemic public health and economic challenges that have contributed to the inequal impact of the pandemic

[…] Use of Funds

The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds provide eligible state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments with a substantial infusion of resources to meet pandemic response needs and rebuild a stronger, and more equitable economy as the country recovers. Recipients may use these funds to:

• Support public health expenditures, by, for example, funding COVID-19 mitigation efforts, medical expenses, behavioral healthcare, and certain public health and safety staff
• Address negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency, including economic harms to workers, households, small businesses, impacted industries, and the public sector
• Replace lost public sector revenue, using this funding to provide government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue experienced due to the pandemic
• Provide premium pay for essential workers, offering additional support to those who have and will bear the greatest health risks because of their service in critical infrastructure sectors
• Invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure, making necessary investments to improve access to clean drinking water, support vital wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, and to expand access to broadband internet

Within these overall categories, recipients have broad flexibility to decide how best to use this funding to meet the needs of their communities.

US Dept of Treasury

Taylor Anderson

NEWS UPDATE: Workplaces, Commercial Buildings to Offer COVID-19 Vaccines in Illinois Cities

Mon, 10 May 2021 19:43:07 GMT

As COVID-19 vaccination rates continue to slow and level-off in Illinois, the state is attempting to meet individuals where they are to get shots into the arms of Illinoisans by offering vaccines at workplaces and other businesses.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday announced the state is partnering with the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago (BOMA) to begin a pilot project to offer vaccines starting in downtown Chicago on May 17.Starting today, buildings and corporate tenants can begin to sign up to host vaccine clinics.

“Our vaccination teams will be showing up to major commercial buildings here in Chicago and other Illinois business districts to offer accessible free vaccination opportunities to people in the comfort of their own workplaces,” Pritzker said Monday. “Many of the buildings have had staff here day-in and day-out, [such as] security workers, front desk staff, custodians and building engineers. For many building tenants, remote work is coming to an end. Having a vaccine available where you work makes getting vaccinated very, very convenient.”

Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said more vaccination clinic sites will become available if demand remains high, and any property owner, including community organizations and not-for-profit churches, will be eligible to join the program and host vaccine clinics.

The first wave of the program will host seven locations in Chicago, two in Rockford, and one in Schaumberg. Two key Chicago locations will be Merchandise Mart and the Wrigley Building.

“Now that we have a vaccine that is proven to be safe and effective, more and more employers are beginning to plan out to, or have already, welcomed employees back to the office. As a government, health care, business, and labor leaders, it’s our responsibility to make sure this transition is as smooth as possible,” Lightfoot said Monday.

Building owners interested in joining the program can contact IDPH or BOMA directly.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Illinois Enters ‘Bridge Phase’ of COVID-19 Re-Opening May 14

Fri, 07 May 2021 18:45:49 GMT

Illinois businesses will be able to operate with loosened COVID-19 safety restrictions next week and fully re-open in June if metrics continue to improve, Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced Thursday.

“I’m pleased to announce that the concerning upward movement of cases and hospitalizations we were seeing a few weeks ago have stabilized – a testament to the lifesaving, community-protecting power of vaccinations,” Pritzker said. “As a result, on Friday, May 14th, the State of Illinois will move into the Bridge Phase of our mitigation plan – one step closer to removing nearly all of the remaining mitigations, and a very hopeful move toward fully reopening. I want to thank people across Illinois who are getting vaccinated, wearing their masks, and continuing to do their part to make your friends and family safer and your communities healthier.”

Given current conditions, Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan will begin on June 11, allowing gatherings of all sizes and large events like conventions and festivals to take place.

IDPH also announced the expansion of COVID-19 vaccines to private doctors’ offices and other small medical providers. Vaccine providers Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart announced this week they are also offer walk-in vaccinations and same-day appointments.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Influx of Federal Funds Aimed at Smoothing Transition Back to Classrooms

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 16:04:24 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other state officials Wednesday laid out a plan for how they intend to spend $7 billion in federal funding over the next several years helping students transition back to in-person learning after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund program is sending $7.8 billion to Illinois for education, with $7 billion being sent directly to school districts over 3 years. To assist districts, the Illinois P-20 council has released the “Learning Renewal Resource Guide,” which includes expert recommendations on those funds can be best spent to help students.

At a press conference at South Elgin High School, Pritzker said the pandemic has placed an unprecedented burden on parents, teachers, administrators, and especially students.

“Over the last year I've spoken with so many of you who are so worried about what the future may hold for them. We're here today to take a little bit of that worry off your plates. … I'm very pleased to announce that thanks to the American Rescue Plan about $7 billion will be available over the next three years to renew K-12 learning for Illinois students -- an unparalleled influx of resources with which we can do truly right by our students,” the governor said.

“With these enormous new resources comes the great challenge that most districts have never had to face: how to avoid having the last 12 months become a lost year for our students.”

The recommendations in the resource guide are not intended to be a perfect fit for every district and Pritzker suggested each district work with their unique community resources to identify what works best for them. At the state level, the governor said they are focusing on four key areas: high-impact tutoring, social and emotional learning, interim assessment guidance, and bridge transitions that will encourage enrollment in early childhood education and higher education.

Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said the resource guide will be continually updated as it is used throughout the state and districts provide feedback on what practices are effective or not. The guide was developed in partnership with multiple organizations, including the Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Board of Higher Education, Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Student Assistance Commission, and the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Illinois to Lose One Congressional Seat

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 14:47:44 GMT

Illinois will lose one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives due to population shifts reflected in 2020 Census data, the U.S. Census Bureau announced today.

The state’s congressional delegation currently has 18 members, including 13 Democrats and 5 Republicans. After the upcoming redistricting process, that count will be reduced to 17.

Asked about the reapportionment at an event Monday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said his administration sought to identify the populations that were leaving the state.

“Unfortunately, this has been happening for more than a decade --that we've had outward migration from the state. When I took office, this unfortunately had continued. I looked very closely at the numbers of people, who they are, where they come from, why they're leaving, and what you see is actually the largest portion of the population that was moving out were young people who were choosing to go to college out of state, because they couldn't afford to go to college in Illinois,” Pritzker said.

The governor said that increasing funding for things like grants through the Monetary Award Program and merit-based scholarships has helped stabilize college enrollment in Illinois, despite the adverse impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on colleges and universities nationwide.

Illinois House Republicans Monday noted that Illinois is one of only three states that has seen a net population decrease since the previous census. They said that policies of the Democratic majority in the General Assembly and the governor’s office have led to this decrease.

Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) said the news is a sign that the congressional redistricting process should not be in the hands of the General Assembly.

“One thing is clear: the majority party, the Democratic Party, who has led us to this very unfortunate position of being one of three states that are losing population and has sent population packing and people fleeing the state of Illinois, should not be the people that are taking the initiative to select their very own voters. The Democratic Party has put our state into this position, and they want to be the only organization that draws legislative districts. I think it’s patently unfair and will lead to more of the same for the state of Illinois,” he said.

There are 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. Each state is given one member, and the remaining 385 are distributed based on population. California, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia are also losing one seat each. Florida, Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon will be receiving one additional seat, while Texas will be receiving two.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Pritzker Signs Chicago Firefighter Pension Bill

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 02:56:09 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday signed legislation that would expand cost of living adjustments for Chicago firefighters despite opposition to the bill from Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and other groups.

HB2451 (Martwick) sets a 3 percent annual pension increase to all Tier 1 Chicago firefighters, accounting for about 2,200 active and retired firefighters who current receive a 1.5 percent annual increase. Additionally, it eliminates a 30 percent cap on these cost of living adjustments.

“I’ve always believed that hardworking men and women who have earned their pension shouldn’t pay the price for local or state budget challenges,” Pritzker said in a statement. “HB2451 creates a system that gives all firefighters certainty and fair treatment. And to make sure that the city can meet its obligations, my administration is working to sell the James R. Thompson Center, which will return to the city’s property tax rolls and is projected to generate $45 million annually for the city and its sister agencies.”

In February, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot urged the governor to veto the bill in a letter, calling it a “massive, unfunded mandate” and saying the pension expansion would place an additional burden on taxpayers in Chicago, amounting to about $850 million by 2055. The bill was also opposed by watchdog group the Civic Federation.

HB2451 is effective immediately.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Black Caucus’ Economic Equity Bills Signed into Law

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 17:25:24 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday signed four bills developed by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus aimed at improving economic equity for all Illinoisans, but especially those from disadvantaged communities.

Pritzker said the bills take significant steps to address various ways in which Illinoisans are withheld from economic opportunity and success.

“It’s easy to see the terrible consequences of systemic racism in economic access and equity of opportunity, but it’s another thing to actually do something about it. Together these four bills mark significant progress in our efforts to close the racial gaps and eliminate barriers that have for too long unfairly held Black and Brown Illinoisans back. … This pillar advances our common vision for quality and inclusion by recognizing and addressing communities that have historically been cut out of the conversation,” the governor said Tuesday at the bill signing at Union Baptist Church in Springfield.

The four bills are the following:

- 101-SB1480 (Belt), which prevents employers from disqualifying jobs applications with a criminal record unless it specifically relates to the job. It also requires larger employers to obtain equal pay certificates from the Illinois Department of Labor, certifying they provide equal pay on the bases of gender, race, and ethnicity.

- 101-SB1608 (Belt), the Illinois Community Reinvestment Act, which aims to incentivize safe lending in low- and moderate-income communities. It also updates the state’s procurement code to ensure the state is finding diverse candidates for contracting and procurement.

- 101-SB1792 (Belt), which prevents pay-day lenders from charging more than 36 percent interest on loans.

- 101-SB1980 (Belt), which allows felony offenders to live in federally subsidized housing. It also creates new standards for public housing authorities who are screening tenants.

“Communities of color have waited for far too long for this kind of economic equity reform. It is long overdue,” House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) said in a statement. “This is a monumental step toward our mission of addressing systemic racism by expanding economic access and opportunity. I applaud Governor Pritzker and the advocates who fought for this critical legislation and I look forward to continue to work on bringing about economic equity in the lives of all Illinoisans.”

Taking questions from reporters, Black Caucus Chair Sen. Kimberly Lightford (D-Chicago) said the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 spurred the Black Caucus to take issues of equality seriously and pass legislation by the end of the 101st General Assembly.

“You guys are shocked because you didn't know we could do it. You didn't know that we can stay together in unity and work as hard as we can, because it was never acknowledged over the years. So the whole idea that we rushed it through or it was done in a short period of time -- it’s absolutely not true. A lot of work, a lot of hours were spent. [There was] a lot of involvement from people all across the state. … Now I understand why I have been so angry at the system. I clearly understand why I leave here every year with billions of dollars in a state budget that I voted for, but the impact, we never feel in our communities,” she said.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: SB1714

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 19:50:34 GMT

Please see below Amendment to SB 1714.

50 ILCS 740 - Illinois Fire Protection Training Act.

SB1714

FIRE ADVISORY COMMISSION (Castro, C) Amends the State Fire Marshal Act. Corrects typographical errors and includes the Illinois Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators in the organizations from which ex officio members of the Illinois Fire Advisory Commission shall serve. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: Senate Amendment 2

Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Fire Protection Training Act. Deletes provision that fire fighter training schools must provide training in the history of the fire service labor movement using curriculum and instructors provided by a statewide organization representing professional union firefighters in Illinois.

ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 740/8;

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: House Passes Black Caucus Health Care Reform, Renter Assistance Bills

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 18:18:42 GMT

In its first major votes of the 102nd General Assembly, the Illinois House Thursday passed measures that attempt to address health care disparities faced by Black and other minority communities, and that protect renters in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today was a phenomenal day for the Illinois House. When we adopted rules for remote legislating, we promised to get to work quickly and diligently—and that’s exactly what we did today. I thank all of my Reps. Lilly, Ramirez and Stuart for getting these critical pieces of legislation across the finish line. This is just the beginning of our work to deliver for Illinois residents and I look forward to collaborating with our counterparts in the Senate,” said Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) in a statement.

HB158 (Lilly), dubbed the “Health Care and Human Service Reform Act” by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, would implement several reforms aimed at addressing medical disparities. Notably it implements a hospital closure moratorium until Dec. 31, 2023. Multiple Black legislators have recently advocated for measures that would prevent the closure of Mercy Hospital in Chicago, which has entered bankruptcy but serves many in poverty in the city’s south side.

The bill also creates an anti-racism commission that will create policy recommendations related to racial equity, requires implicit bias training for medical professionals, and allows Medicaid reimbursement for doulas working with pregnant and post-partum women. Republicans opposed the bill, raising questions over the costs of its provisions. It ultimately passed 72 to 41.

In a similar move, the House also approved SB168 (Ellman), which was passed in order to allow the sale and re-opening of Westlake Hospital, a safety net hospital in Melrose Park that was purchase by private equity firm Pipeline Health in 2019 before being promptly closed. The site was later re-opened as an overflow site for COVID-19 patients.

“As we all look to rebuild from a pandemic that hit historically underserved communities hardest, it’s fitting that we take this step to expedite the sale and reopening of Westlake Hospital. The past year has underscored the need for equitable health care access for all – so reopening Westlake and reinvesting in health care for underserved Black and Brown communities is an essential step toward emerging from these difficult times stronger,” Welch said in a statement.

HB2877 (Ramirez) was also passed, which would temporarily halt foreclosures for both renters and small landlords in the state. Notably, it also codifies programs set up by the federal government to help renters and homeowners during the pandemic, especially those who face an eviction notice. It would also implement several other renter protections, such as stopping tenant screenings from accessing sealed eviction court records. Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Chicago) previously introduced a version of this bill during the previous lame duck session as 101-HB5574.

The House also passed HB1871 (Stuart), would make permanent expansion of vote-by-mail, curbside voting, and drop box voting that were made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This bill also passed along party lines, with Republicans expressing concerns about the security of ballot drop boxes and where additional boxes may be placed.

These measures now head to the Illinois Senate for consideration.

The House also passed a resolution condemning the actions of Rep. Chris Miller (R-Robinson) for attending and participating in the Jan. 6 rally in Washington D.C. that preceded the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol Building. Miller defended himself on the floor, saying he had no part in the day’s violence. HR132 (Morgan) was adopted along party lines 57 to 36, with five members of the House Ethics Committee voting present.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Republican ‘Reimagine Illinois’ Platform Highlights Fiscal, Ethical Responsibility

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 15:18:17 GMT

A new Republican policy platform unveiled Wednesday argues that common sense, bipartisan reforms demonstrating fiscal and ethical responsibility will help restore Illinoisians’ trust in state government.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge), Rep. Avery Bourne (R-Litchfield), and Rep. Mike Murphy (R-Springfield) provided an overview of the new “Reimagine Illinois” platform at a Statehouse press conference Wednesday.

Durkin said that Illinois voters demonstrated in the Nov. 2020 election that they do not trust the Illinois government as run by the Democratic Party.

“The platform which we’re discussing today emulates what our caucus stands for and what most Illinoisans across the state want from their government. That platform includes ending the culture of corruption, responsible fiscal leadership, growing jobs and opportunities for families, and ensuring public safety. … House Republicans want Illinois to know that there is an alternative,” Durkin said.

Durkin said this platform was developed by a group of House Republicans headed by Murphy who looked at the top priorities of the party and the state’s needs. Murphy said bills have been introduced in the past that relate to this platform but said they have not yet been part of a comprehensive plan.

Bourne said 81 bills have been filed that fall under the umbrella of the platform and touch upon areas such as education, including legislation that prioritizes $350 million in additional funding for the K-12 system. Another bill including in the platform is HB1962 (Keicher), which would create tax credits for job apprenticeships and create an apprenticeship office within the Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity.

Regarding pension system reform, Durkin said Democrats will need to work with Republicans if they hope for meaningful change, and said he opposes a proposed plan that would leverage a graduated tax in order to fund the state’s pension system.

“It’s going to have to be reformed within the system, so I’m prepared to either put votes on a constitutional amendment or a consideration model. Doing nothing is a disaster, and that’s just unacceptable,” he said.

Durkin also said there is some bipartisan consensus on necessary ethics reform, including barring former legislators from the lobbying industry.

“People, they don't like the legislature, I think we're probably one of the most despised group of individuals in the state of Illinois. They just don't like us, they never do, but the fact is: Why don't we do something to reaffirm that we believe that we have to police ourselves, and that we can do it with simple things,” he said.

Murphy emphasized that he has and will continue to cosponsor Democratic bills that mirror bills he’s introduced in the past, just to have them languish in committee. For example, he said he was approached by Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza to co-sponsor HB178 (Stuart), which would limit the amount a General Assembly member is paid of their if they resign partway through a month.

Durkin said the platform also includes continued review of the bail and pre-trial detention changes made in 101-HB3653 (Slaughter), which he said is a “mistake” that “throws public safety on its head.”

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Pritzker Signs Criminal Justice Bill

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 20:25:54 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Monday signed into law a major criminal justice reform bill backed by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus that, among other provisions, will end the use of cash bail for non-violent offenses in the state by 2023.

“All of Illinois will live in a safer and more just state with this law on the books. … In short, this legislation marks a substantial step toward dismantling the systemic racism that plagues our communities, our state, and our nation, and brings us closer to true safety, true fairness, and true justice. My administration infuses these values into all that we do,” Pritzker said at a public bill signing at Chicago State University Monday.

In addition to ending cash bail, 101-HB3653 would also create a statewide certification system for law enforcement officers, require all law enforcement officers to wear body cameras by 2025, and expand use-of-force guidelines and training for law enforcement. Other provisions aim to provide more transparency and accountability in policing, including enhancing protections for whistleblowers and banning the use of chokeholds by law enforcement.

Under the bill, courts are also incentivized to use alternate sentencing instead of relying on mandatory minimums.

Sen. Kimberly Lightford (D-Chicago), chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, said that the protest movements that sprung up in 2020 in response to the killing of George Floyd and other Black Americans led the caucus to mobilize work on this and other legislation.

“The tragedies of this last year could have just beaten us down left us hopeless and defeated. But we did not let it, we leveraged it to create real change; to create a better future for our children and our grandchildren. This moment is a hopeful moment. I am so proud and grateful to be a part of it,” Lightford said.

Following the bill’s signing, House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) praised the move in a statement.

“For too long, systemic racism has plagued our criminal justice system. In fact, it has been used to perpetuate a system of injustice. Today, I am proud to say that our state is taking steps to end that. I applaud Governor Pritzker for swiftly signing this bill into law; and I especially applaud my colleagues in the General Assembly who have been working towards this for years. Being Black or Brown in America is not a crime. Being poor in America is not crime. Today our laws will reflect that a bit more. But there's certainly more to do,” Welch said.

Opponents of the legislation include multiple states’ attorneys and law enforcement organizations who say the bill make communities less safe and place “unfunded mandates” on local law enforcement agencies and courts. Police leaders have also said the bill may create challenges in officer recruitment and retention.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) Monday said the governor has “turned his back” on law enforcement by signing the bill.

“The Governor’s support of House Bill 3653 is an insult to our first responders, law enforcement and the law-abiding citizens of Illinois who work to live free of violence and destruction from the criminal element. It’s clear that Governor Pritzker does not understand this bill and what it means to our criminal justice system. Illinois and its citizens will not be safer because of this bill,” Durkin said in a statement.

Allison Richard
Legislative Consultant

Bills

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 19:42:50 GMT

Please find below three recently introduced Bills.

HB3167

STATEWDE PTSD MENTL HLTH COORD (Rita, R) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Creates under the authority of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board the Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator, appointed by the Governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of 4 years. Provides that the Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator shall receive a salary as provided by law and is eligible for re-appointment. Provides that the Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator shall be responsible for implementing a program of mental health support and education for law enforcement officers. Establishes qualifications for the Coordinator. Provides that the Statewide PTSD Mental Health Coordinator shall report to the Board on the development and implementation of programs and training for law enforcement officers and shall advise the Board and receive advice from the Board on direction and training needs for law enforcement agencies that vary in size, location, and demographics.
Bill Version: As Introduced in the House
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/3.1 new;

HB2635 CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS-FIREARMS (Reick, S) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Defines "retired law enforcement officer qualified under federal law" for purposes of the Act to permit the carrying of a concealed weapon. Amends the Criminal Code of 2012, the Unified Code of Corrections, and the County Jail Act. Permits currently employed and qualified retired State correctional officers and county correctional officers to carry their own firearms off-duty without being in violation of the unlawful use of weapons and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon statutes if they meet certain training requirements. Provides that currently employed and qualified retired State correctional officers and county correctional officers shall carry a photographic identification and a valid annual firearm certificate while carrying their own firearms off-duty. Limited to correctional officers who have custody and control over inmates in an adult correctional facility. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: As Introduced in the House
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 705/2;

HB2831

OFFICER BODY CAM-IMPLEMENT (Caulkins, D) Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act and the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act, if and only if House Bill 3653 of the 101st General Assembly becomes law. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board shall administer grants under the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act in accordance with rules adopted by the Board that prioritize law enforcement agencies in municipalities and counties under 50,000 that comply with the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that the Board may adopt rules that prioritize the financial need of these agencies when determining eligibility for these grants under the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act. Effective immediately.
Bill Version: As Introduced in the House
ILCS Section(s) Affected: 50 ILCS 707/11 new;

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Former Speaker Madigan Resigns from Illinois House

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 20:57:07 GMT

Former Speaker of the House Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) Thursday announced his resignation from the chamber, according to a statement.

Madigan will leave the chamber at the end of February after 50 years of representing parts of Chicago, including serving all but two years since 1983 as the Speaker of the House. In January, Rep. Chris Welch (D-Westchester) was elected House Speaker after Madigan failed to reach the necessary 60 votes to continue his tenure.

“My achievements would not have been possible without the hard work and commitment of many members of my staff through the years. I thank them for their efforts on behalf of the House Democratic Caucus and the people of Illinois. I also want to thank the many volunteers and supporters who worked on behalf of the residents of the 22nd District. It is with the collective support of many that we have made Illinois a bastion of Democratic values,” Madigan said in a statement.

“I leave office at peace with my decision and proud of the many contributions I’ve made to the state of Illinois, and I do so knowing I’ve made a difference.”

Madigan remains chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party.

“As of last month, Michael Madigan has dedicated 50 years of service to the Illinois House of Representatives. I thank the former Speaker for his sincere and meaningful contributions to our state. Under him, we’ve had strong, sustained Democratic leadership in Springfield. We legalized same-sex marriage, abolished the death penalty and solidified abortion rights. Illinois also became the first state in the Midwest to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour. These laws gave underserved populations a new sense of hope,” Welch said in a statement.

Now we must build on that with a new generation of leadership focused on racial and gender equity in all dimensions, improving government transparency, and leading with the kind of conviction, compassion and cooperation expected by our constituents. I truly appreciate his contributions and I join Illinoisans across the state in wishing him well.”

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Pritzker Says ‘Hard Choices’ Must be Made in FY22 Budget Address

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:59:25 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker delivered his State of the State and FY22 budget address today, saying that the budget reflects necessary “hard choices” that must be made to address the COVID-19 pandemic and the state’s financial challenges.

In a pre-recorded message filmed at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, Pritzker took aim at Republicans and those in the “far right” who have argued against safety restrictions and pandemic assistance for citizens.

“Throughout the pandemic, they have encouraged businesses to defy health guidelines, spread conspiracy theories about COVID deaths, and fought mask guidelines tooth and nail. Amidst the tragedy of this pandemic, they have lobbied against the federal government providing relief to Illinoisans, ignoring the life-changing economic pain of real working families. In essence, they eliminated the fire department, burnt down the house, and poured gas on the flames. Now they’re asking why we’re not doing more to prevent fires. In a normal year, I might have more patience for their hypocrisy. But this is not a normal year,” Pritzker said.

The governor’s $41.6 billion proposed budget does not include explicit tax increases for Illinois residents and includes additional funding in areas like education and at the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), which has seen an increased workload during the COVID-19 pandemic. He called on the General Assembly to pass a standalone bill that would direct $60 million directly to IDES to support call center positions and administer federal unemployment programs.

Pritzker is also proposing a $28 million increase in MAP grants to assist low-income Illinois students seeking higher education opportunities.

The budget also includes $1.8 billion less general funds spending than in FY21, including a state hiring freeze. Pritzker touted efficiencies in the state government and optimizing the state’s workforce as a significant source of budgetary savings.

Pritzker proposes raising over $900 million by “closing corporate tax loopholes” to help address the state’s budget deficit. These include capping corporate net operating loss tax deductions, accelerating the expiration of tax exemptions for biodiesel, and eliminating the add-on income tax credit for construction job payroll.

The governor also proposed extending repayment of borrowed funds and relying on federal COVID-19 aid to reduce the state deficit.

Republican leaders accused the governor of reneging on deals he struck with them in 2019 during budget negotiations. They said that the state’s financial challenges existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic and that Pritzker has not taken the steps to rein-in spending.

“It has led the governor to identify a billion dollars in tax increases on businesses and call them ‘loopholes,’ even though these are the same incentive programs that he himself signed into law, and that both Republicans and Democrats in the legislature correctly identified as meaningful tools to make Illinois a more competitive place for new business development, new job creation, and widespread construction and new investment projects,” said Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon).

Republicans also said that the governor is over-relying on borrowed funds to deal with the state’s budget problems.

Senate Democrats were generally pleased with the budget and Pritzker’s address, saying it is a good starting point and makes the best of a challenging situation.

“I think this is a good faith effort by the governor to both recognize our financial realities and honor our commitments and priorities. Coming out of this pandemic we need to get people back to work. Our first priority with any tax incentive needs to be jobs for hard-working Illinoisans. I think it’s a fair question to ask what are the hard-working taxpayers of Illinois getting in return for corporate tax breaks,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park).

“Today's address was the first step in a process that involves all of us coming to the table and working line-by-line to build a budget that reflects our priorities: our COVID-19 response, improving operations for the Illinois Department of Employment Security, funding veterans homes, and providing resources for schools and job training efforts. To do this, we need to close corporate tax loopholes that have made it easy for them to avoid paying their fair share,” said House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) in a statement.

Outside of the budget, Pritzker urged the General Assembly to pass “real, lasting” ethics reform legislation.

Allison Richard
Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Vaccine Eligibility Expanding to Individuals with Health Risks

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:26:02 GMT

COVID-19 vaccines will soon be available to individuals in Illinois who have significant chronic health conditions that put them at greater risk should they become infected, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Wednesday.

Beginning Feb. 25, individuals who have cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, diabetes, heart conditions, pulmonary disease, or sickle cell disease will become eligible. Individuals who are pregnant, obese, or who have received a solid organ transplant and are immunocompromised are also eligible.

The change comes as the administration of President Joe Biden has announced an increase in vaccine supply by 30 percent, including a 5 percent increase this week. Additionally, the Johnson and Johnson-developed vaccine is scheduled for FDA review on Feb. 26, which may lead to many more available doses.

“As quickly as we receive enough vaccine supply, we need to waste no time in protecting a broader section of our most vulnerable population,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Those who are under 65 and live with comorbidities, such as cancer survivors or those living with heart disease, have an elevated risk of serious complications or death if they contract COVID-19. Illinois is moving forward in accordance with guidance from the CDC to expand our eligible population as supply allows, getting us closer to the point when the vaccine is widely available to all who want it.”

The list of applicable co-morbidities is subject to change as CDC guidance changes.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: AARP Details Health, Economic Disparities Facing Older Illinoisans

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 21:22:58 GMT

A new report from AARP Illinois details how Illinois’ aging population faces significant disparities in access to health care and how those disparities are exacerbated on racial lines and by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The report, “Disrupt Disparities: Challenges & Solutions for 50+ Illinoisans of Color,” was developed in partnership with Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Chicago, the Chicago Urban League, and the Resurrection Project.

AARP Illinois President Rosanna Marquez provided an overview of the report to partners and media Monday. Joining her were also Sen. Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago), Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago), and Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago).

Senior Illinoisans of color in the state are much more likely to suffer from chronic diseases and more likely to not have health insurance before becoming eligible for Medicare. They often also lack reliable transportation to health care providers and pharmacies, with White Illinoisans three times more likely to have access to a car.

Older Illinoisans of color were also twice as likely to still have mortgages on their homes and spend a disproportionately higher amount of their total income on housing overall. Those living on a fixed income must also deal with increasing costs of living while seeing no additional income.

Regarding the pandemic, Marquez said a disproportionate amount of vaccine doses administered so far have gone toward white individuals instead of others. Additionally, African American adults over 50 make up 18 percent of COVID-19 deaths despite making up 12.5 percent of the population. Hispanic Illinoisans make up 15 percent of the deaths despite making up just 8.6 percent of the population of the state.

“While heartbreaking, these statistics are not surprising. They are evidence of long-standing inequities from the social conditions that lead to poor health, to unequal access to quality care, to limited economic resources, all of which have existed for years,” she said.

Additionally, she explained that the process for scheduling a vaccination appointment is especially difficult for seniors.

“We know that there's a digital divide issue; we've talked about connectivity. Many of our elders are not computer literate. … Many don’t have computers, and they don’t have a child or grandchild in the house to help them navigate the system,” she said.

The report proposed several policy recommendations that would help assist older Illinoisans financially, including expanding the Secure Choice program to smaller businesses, allowing employees to enroll in a Roth IRA; expanding the state earned income tax credit; and providing property tax relief for older Illinoisans who are often on a fixed income.

On health issues, the report recommends expanding income-based health insurance options for residents 50 to 64 years old, expanding telehealth programs, and expanding long-term investment in health equity models and community-based health care organizations.

The report also recommends making the Illinois Broadband Council more representative of the racial make-up of the state and expanding broadband infrastructure in communities of color. Collins and others said they are in the process of filing legislation to address these issues and working with the AARP on bill language.

Allison Richard
Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Republicans Propose Referendum, Recall Process

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 16:59:17 GMT

Republicans leaders in both the House and Senate Tuesday announced the introduced of three proposed changes to the Illinois Constitution that they say would give voters direct power over their representatives in the Legislature and the laws they pass.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) and Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Lake Zurich) outlined the legislation, which would expand the ability of citizens to put constitutional amendments on the ballot, allow citizens to repeal a Legislature-approved law by referendum, and allow citizens to recall any elected officials in the state, excluding judges but including the Senate President, Speaker of the House, and Auditor General.

“At all levels, my constituents feel powerless in what they can do, because they feel that the system stacked against them. These voter empowerment initiatives and constitutional amendments are designed to empower our constituents around the state of Illinois, and to ensure that our government is effective, efficient, and that the people who represent Illinois, are accountable to [the people],” said Rep. Mark Batinick (R-Plainfield), who is the sponsor of HC4, HC5, and HC6 in the House.

McConchie is the sponsor of the sister legislation SC1, SC2, and SC3 in the Senate.

Under HC5 and SC1, a petition to place a constitutional amendment on the statewide ballot would need to be signed by 8 percent of voters from most recent gubernatorial election.

The recall amendments, SC3 and HC4, would also make allow to recall of executive branch officers beyond the governor, and would bar those individuals from holding that office for 10 years if recalled. Recall initiatives would be specific to the voting districts to which the officer pertains, except for statewide offices, and would take place during the next regularly scheduled election.

The leaders said they were hopeful they could work with their Democratic counterparts to negotiate around these issues, whether through the legislation or through the chamber’s rules process.

Allison Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Legislators Now Eligible to Receive Vaccine under Phase 1B

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 21:27:48 GMT

Illinois legislators are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine under Phase 1B of the state’s vaccination plan.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the move was initiated by members of the Legislature reaching out to the governor and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

“Many legislators asked if they could be vaccinated, because there is so much work to be done. … We need the state of Illinois and its legislature and government to function. We can’t wait. We had seven months or so, or even longer, without legislation from May all the way through lame duck session. Now I believe that we’ll be able to move forward,” Pritzker said at a vaccination event in Champaign.

Pritzker said he would not be receiving the vaccine ahead of any others in the schedule.
House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) praised the move in a statement:

“I commend the Governor’s decision to allow state legislators to get the COVID-19 vaccine in the 1B phase. While part of my job as Speaker is to relay the range of opinions among all House members, it was important that this decision rest with the Governor and his team of health experts. The issues and challenges facing the General Assembly are enormous, so this is a welcomed step in the interest of government functionality and safety. Whether or not to get a vaccine is a personal choice for every member, but I encourage those who are at-risk or have vulnerable family members to strongly consider it.”

Senate Republican Leader Dan McConchie (R-Lake Zurich) called the move “ridiculous,” noting that he recently had a meeting with a constituent who has receive an organ transplant and is on immunosuppressive medications.

“They are very vulnerable to COVID-19, but because they're under 65, there is zero mechanism -- there is no ability for them to be able to get the vaccine, even if their doctor says their life depends upon it,” he said.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) agreed, saying legislators should not be able to “leapfrog” others in the public who are eligible.

Allison Richard

UPDATE: Durkin Announces House Republican Leadership Team

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 17:15:31 GMT

Please see below, House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) announced his leadership team for the 102nd General Assembly.

The team includes the following members:

Rep. Dan Brady (R-Normal) - Deputy Minority Leader

Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon) - Deputy Minority Leader

Rep. Tom Bennett (R-Pontiac) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. Avery Bourne (R-Litchfield) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) - Assistant Minority Leade

Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Jacksonville) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (R-Westmont) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. Keith Wheeler (R-North Aurora) - Assistant Minority Leader

Rep. David Welter (R-Morris) - Republican Conference Chair

Rep. Mark Batinick (R-Plainfield) - Republican Floor Leader

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

NEWS UPDATE: Regions 7, 11 Move to Phase 4

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 23:31:27 GMT

Two Illinois regions have improved their COVID-19 metrics enough to again loosen restrictions on businesses and other activities, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced.

Regions 7 (Will and Kankakee counties) and 11 (Chicago) have moved into Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan, allowing for indoor service at bars and restaurants in parties of up to 10 people.

Retail, service, indoor recreation, and other businesses are able to open with 50 percent occupancy limits. Museums may operate with a 25 percent occupancy limit. Meetings and social events can be held with the lesser of 50 people or 50 percent of an indoor space’s capacity.

Regions 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 11 are now in Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan, while regions 8, 9, and 10 still face tier 1 mitigations. Region 4 (Southwest Illinois) is under tier 2 mitigations.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: House Republicans Ask Pritzker to Veto Criminal Justice Bill

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 21:31:34 GMT

House Republicans Wednesday asked Gov. J.B. Pritzker to veto recently passed legislation that makes significant changes to the state’s criminal justice system, including elimination of cash bail.

Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) said that 101-HB3653 (Slaughter), which was passed by both the House and the Senate during the last days of the state’s lame duck session, was hastily approved and lacks the support of many in the criminal justice system.

“Elimination of cash bail in creating a presumption of individual recognizance in this form is misguided and will have an immediate negative effect on public safety. Public safety is the state's greatest responsibility to its citizens above all. The elimination of cash bail basically says that we respect the honor system for violent criminals and gang members,” Durkin said.

Durkin and Reps. Patrick Windhorst (R-Harrisburg) and David Friess (R-Red Bud) were joined by Joe Moon, President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #41. Moon said that he and other law enforcement members are not wholly opposed to parts of the bill, including sections requiring the use of body cameras and additional training for officers. However, he even those can become unfunded mandates on small agencies.

“The problem with this bill in that aspect is that it's not a one-size-fits-all [issue]. There are small agencies that can't afford the training -- can't afford the cameras. Cameras are a great thing; nine times out of 10, they're going to protect my officers and they will be exonerated of a lot of allegations based on their training and their ability to do their job,” Moon said.

He additionally said many of the provisions of the bill will hurt police morale, leading some that have reached retirement age to chose retirement over continuing to work.

Windhorst and Durkin said that they are interested in reforming cash bail and pre-trial sentencing so that defendants who cannot afford to make bail on non-violent charges are not detained unfairly.

However, they said that this bill would make it too easy for courts to allow violent offenders to walk free where they may re-offend, pointing to cases in Cook County and other states that have all or partly eliminated cash bail.

Durkin said he questions the mission of the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office after they supported the bill, given that he previously worked as a prosecutor in that office.

Durkin also commented on the recent cancellation of upcoming House meetings saying that he had spoken to House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Westchester) over the weekend. He said he was pleased that the Democratic caucus plans to work with Republicans to adjust House rules to allow remote committee meetings, but said that the Legislature still has the ability to meet in-person in a healthy and safe manner while the pandemic continues.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: State Helping Businesses Navigate Federal Relief Programs

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 19:50:25 GMT

As COVID-19 assistance programs begin to expand under the new administration of President Joe Biden, Gov. J.B. Pritzker Friday said the state will help small businesses in navigating federal loan and grant programs offering financial relief.

Pritzker said that the state’s small business development centers will be hosting webinars and virtual office hours in the coming weeks that will help businesses apply for the additional $280 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, as well as the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“We know from past rounds that the federal PPP has presented tremendous barriers for very small businesses and those that are minority owned, since both tend not to have the in-house navigation expertise of larger corporations. … I’ve directed my administration to provide community navigators through our small business development centers to work directly with our business owners, helping them access the dollars they deserve,” Pritzker said.

Regarding COVID-19 vaccination, Pritzker said that he remains “troubled” by the slow pace of vaccine distribution through the federal pharmacy partnership program set up by former President Donald Trump.

The governor said the first days of the administration of President Joe Biden have given him hope that vaccine production will ramp up. Biden has invoked the federal Defense Production Act to speed up vaccine manufacturing and is requesting Congress approve funding for expanded vaccinations centers and hiring public health workers.

As Illinois officially opens vaccine eligibility to Illinoisans 65 and older on Jan. 25, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike requested those newly eligible to have some patience due to the low vaccine supply. Additionally, she said the department will be setting up a website that will link those eligible to either local departments of public health or vaccination partners in order to schedule their vaccination appointment. She said availability of those appointments will vary between different regions of the state.

Ezike also introduced newly updated COVID-19 safety guidelines for sports participation that will allow all conference sports to be played in those regions that have reached COVID-19 metrics that have allowed them to exit tiered mitigation and return to Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan. Currently, that includes regions 3, 5, and 6, all in the central or southern part of the state.

Ezike stressed that safety precautions are still necessary, noting the more contagious COVID-19 variant, saying, “Reduced mitigation does not mean abandoned mitigation. Businesses, restaurants, events, and activities still need to have reduced capacities. People still need to avoid large events. We still need to use our masks all the time. We know that these things worked. It’s just a plain fact.”

Addressing concerns about vaccination “line-jumping” that some have reported around the state, Ezike said that most vaccinations are being done in a manner consistent with state and federal guidelines. However, she said that IDPH does not have the capacity to track every individual who receives a vaccine, saying, “We can’t work towards the exception. We’re working for the greater good of the masses.”

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Legislative Update

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 22:08:52 GMT

The following is a recently introduced bill in the Illinois House of Representatives.

HB202 FIREFIGHTER TRAINING-HISTORY (Hurley F) Amends the Illinois Fire Protection Training Act. In provisions requiring fire fighters to complete training relating to the history of the fire service labor movement, provides that "fire fighter" includes fire fighters hired by the Chicago Fire Department. Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Frances Ann Hurley

Legislative Update

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 15:59:18 GMT

Please be advised the following bill was recently introduced in the Illinois House of Representatives.

HB180 WARRIOR-STYLE TRAINING BANNED (Flowers M) Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Provides that the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, police training schools approved by the Board, law enforcement agencies, and units of local government may not initiate, administer, or conduct training programs that include warrior-style training, either directly or through a third party. Provides that the Board may not reimburse a law enforcement agency or unit of local government for any portion of training programs that include warrior-style training. Provides that law enforcement agencies and units of local government may not indemnify or otherwise provide liability protection for a peace officer for liability arising from the use of tactics derived from warrior-style training. Defines "warrior-style" training. Preempts home rule. Amends the Department of State Police Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois to make conforming changes. Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Mary E. Flowers

Letitia Dewith-Anderson, J.D.

Anderson Legislative Consulting, Ltd., President

NEWS UPDATE: COVID-19 Restrictions Rolling Back as Next Phase of Vaccination Begins

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 23:57:48 GMT

Three regions of the Restore Illinois Plan will now begin to roll back COVID-19 safety restrictions on businesses and gatherings as COVID-19 positivity rates slowly decline.

Regions 1, Northern Illinois; Region 2, North Central Illinois; and Region 5, Southern Illinois are now able to move down from tier 3 restrictions to tier 2 restrictions, which allows group fitness classes to resume, low-risk sports to be played, and the re-opening of cultural sites like museums with limited capacity.

Additionally, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced that regions reaching the necessary metrics to move down into tier 1 will be allowed to open bars, restaurants, and other hospitality locations to the lesser of 25 people or 25 percent capacity.

“The trajectory of the data in each region has given Dr. [Ngozi] Ezike and I some confidence that a careful and limited reopening of bars and restaurants in regions that have attained tier one will not lead to a resurgence. … Bars and Restaurants have carried an extremely heavy burden throughout this public health crisis through no fault of their own,” Pritzker said.

In a statement, Illinois Restaurant Association President Sam Toia said that this step is helps, but “falls short of the restaurant industry’s critical needs and expectations.”

Ezike from the Illinois Department Public Health confirmed that the state has seen its first case of the UK-originated COVID-19 variant, which has shown to be more contagious. Ezike urged all Illinoisans to continue to follow safety guidelines to prevent the variant’s spread.

Pritzker said that the state is officially moving into phase 1B of its vaccination plan on Jan. 25, which includes opening vaccination up to those ages 65 and older. Beginning Jan. 18, Illinois National Guard mobile teams will begin operating vaccination sites in regions across the state, followed by vaccination sites at third-party pharmacies, urgent care locations, and doctor's offices.

Please find attached the Governor’s press release on indoor dining and the next phase of vaccination administration as well as an updated Illinois Resurgence Mitigation Plan.

Allison F. Richard

Lame duck quick recap

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 21:18:06 GMT

Lame Duck update:

After a cancelled Veto session, the 5-and-a-half-day lame duck session was extraordinarily busy. The Black Caucus was able to pass three of their four pillars, managing to work with stakeholders to remove some of the language with the most opposition.

We are told the House Calendar for spring session will be ready soon, we will email it to you as soon as it is available.

Below is a list of some of the key bills during lame duck session and where they ended.

Passed Both Chambers:

HB 3653- Black Caucus criminal justice/policing pillar.

SB 2170- Black Caucus education reform.
SBs 1480, 1608, 1792, 1980-Black Caucus economic package.
HB 3360- ITLA prejudgment interest.
SB 54- Home liquor delivery.

Did not receive Final Action in the House:

HB 3840- Black Caucus pillar health care omnibus (passed Senate).
HB 122- Cannabis clean up.
HB 3994- Election bill.
HB 3469- Remote legislating.

Did not receive Final Action in the Senate:

SB 3066- COVID housing bill.
SB 558- Black Caucus pillar healthcare bill (passed House).
HB 2267- Chicago elected school board.

Failed to pass either chamber:

SB 1199-Decoupling and revenue package.
SB 3071- Ethics bill.

SB 3096- Solar Energy Roll-over fix

Taylor Anderson

UPDATE: Welch Elected House Speaker

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 22:37:07 GMT

The 102nd General Assembly began with the election of Rep. Chris Welch (D-Westchester) as the 70th Speaker of the House, ending the leadership of Rep. Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) who has served as Speaker nearly continuously since 1983.

Welch received 70 votes in support of his speakership while House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Burr Ridge) received 44.

“I am honored to be called upon my colleagues from the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus to put my name in for consideration. This historic moment in Illinois and across the country calls for new representation and unity of democratic beliefs. I want to thank Speaker Madigan for his leadership - it has been a challenging year for us all but I am grateful for his commitment to serving the public,” Welch said in a statement.

“As I prepare to pass the Speaker’s gavel to a new generation of Democratic leadership, I want to thank the people of my district and the members of the House Democratic Caucus for the faith and trust they have placed in me over the years. I want to thank my staff for their hard work on behalf of every member of this caucus. It has been the honor of a lifetime to help bring people of different experiences and backgrounds together to serve our state,” Madigan said in a statement.

Welch entered contention for the speakership following Madigan’s announcement that he was suspending his campaign for the position, receiving the endorsement of both the Legislative Black Caucus and Latino Caucus.

Welch initially struggled to reach the requisite 60 votes, facing opposition from female legislative groups in the House after news reports from 2002 surfaced regarding welch and alleged domestic attack on a partner. Welch was not charged in that case and he said he has since reconciled with the individual in question.

House Republicans criticize Welch as a “Madigan lieutenant” who will continue what they’ve called a “corrupt machine” in the Illinois House.

The 101st General Assembly ended with a variety of bills passing both chambers, but with some priority legislation was left on the table. Notably, the Legislative Black Caucus’ reforms to criminal justice (HB3653-Tarver) and multiple education and economic issues passed both chambers. However, an important bill related to the federal CARES Act and taxation decoupling, a priority of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s, was notably postponed in the House (SB1199-Harmon).

-Allison Richard

HB 3653 the new police reform bill

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 22:31:49 GMT

Please be advised that HB3653, with Senate Amendment #2 (the criminal justice / police reform bill) passed out of the Senate early this morning 32 - Y and 23 N.

Importantly, Senate Amendment #2 filed on the bill early this morning removed the qualified immunity provisions previously included and replaced them with a Task Force on Constitutional Rights and Remedies.

HB 3653 (SFA 0002)

Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Statewide Use of Force Standardization Act. Provides that it is the intent of the General Assembly to establish statewide use of force standards for law enforcement agencies. Creates the No Representation Without Population Act. Provides that State Board of Elections shall prepare redistricting population data to reflect incarcerated persons at their residential address prior to incarceration. Provides that this data shall be the basis of the Legislative and Representative Districts required to be created pursuant to Section 3 of Article IV of the Illinois Constitution. Provides that incarcerated populations residing at unknown geographic locations within the State shall not be used to determine the ideal population of any set of districts, wards, or precincts. Creates the Reporting of Deaths in Custody Act. Provides that the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority shall create a standardized form to be used for the purpose of collecting information about persons who die in custody of a law agency, a local or State correctional facility in the State, or a peace officer. Creates the Task Force on Constitutional Rights and Remedies Act. Creates the Task Force on Constitutional Rights and Remedies. Provides that the Task Force shall review available research, best practices, and effective interventions to formulate recommendations. Provides that the Task Force shall produce a report detailing the Task Force's findings and recommendations and needed resources. The Task Force shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly and the Governor. Amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. Provides that notwithstanding any provision of this Act, employers shall not be required to bargain over matters relating to the discipline or discharge of peace officers. Provisions in existing collective bargaining agreements that address the discipline or discharge of peace officers shall lapse by operation of law on the renewal or extension of existing collective bargaining agreements by whatever means, or the approval of a collective bargaining agreement by the corporate authorities of the employer after the effective date of this Act, without imposing a duty to bargain on employers. Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Makes it official misconduct for an employee of a law enforcement agency to knowingly fail to turn on an officer-worn body camera or turn off an officer-worn body camera when there is a reasonable opportunity to act in a manner that is consistent with the officer-worn body camera policy of the respective law enforcement agency or when he or she knowingly uses or communicates, directly or indirectly, information acquired in the course of employment. Provides that an employee of a law enforcement agency commits misconduct when he or she knowingly misrepresents facts describing an incident in a police report or during investigations regarding the law enforcement employee's conduct. Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963. Abolishes cash bail. Provides for pretrial release and eligibility for that release. Amends various Acts to make conforming changes. Amends the Unified Code of Corrections. Changes the terms for mandatory supervised release. Makes other changes. Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that deliberations for decisions of the Illinois State Police Merit Board, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board and the Certification Review Panel regarding certification and decertification of law enforcement officers are not open meetings under the Act. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that information which is prohibited from disclosure by the Illinois Police Training Act is not subject to disclosure under the Act. Provides that records contained in the Officer Professional Conduct Database, except to the extent authorized under that provision are not subject to disclosure under the Act. Amends the State Employee Indemnification Act. Includes in the definition of "employee" the members of the Certification Review Panel. Amends the State Police Act concerning discipline of Illinois State Police officers and the appointment of the Illinois State Police Merit Board. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Changes the misdemeanor offenses for which a law enforcement officer may be decertified. Grants the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board the power: (1) to review and ensure all law enforcement officers remain in compliance with the Act, and any administrative rules adopted under the Act; and (2) to suspend any certificate for a definite period, limit or restrict any certificate, or revoke any certificate. Creates the Illinois Law Enforcement Certification Review Panel to make recommendations to the Board on the decertification of law enforcement officers. Effective July 1, 2021, except for certain provisions that are effective either January 1, 2022, January 1, 2023, or January 1, 2025.

Taylor Anderson

HB 163 - Interview and message from IL Sheriffs’ Association President

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 20:21:20 GMT

Please find below a link to an interview with Illinois Sheriffs’ Association President Jim Kaitschuk and a copy of his letter for action in response to HB 163 (police reform package).

https://www.933thedrive.com/2021/01/06/ill-officers-pushing-back-on-controversial-reforms-bill/

UPDATE: Attorney General Raoul Announces Police Reform Bill HB 841

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 20:18:20 GMT

Please find attached Attorney General Raoul's press release regarding police reform bill HB 841. There are three key areas that are covered in HB 841 — creating uniformity for officers and departments across the state, promoting professionalism in law enforcement, and increasing transparency. Additionally, HB 841 specifically focuses on the certification and de-certification of police officers throughout the State.

HB 841 is sponsored by Rep Justin Slaughter and Senate Emil Jones.

AG Press Release Police Licensure.pdf

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Attorney at Law

UPDATE: Black Caucus Press Conference On Proposed Criminal Justice Reforms

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 20:12:11 GMT

House and Senate members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus detailed their proposal for criminal justice reforms as the lame duck legislative sessions began Friday, explaining that their proposal has been carefully considered and would make significant strides to undoing some of the systemic racism built into the current system.

The proposed changes are included in an over 600-page amendment to HB163 (Stuart) and would make significant changes to aspects of the justice system including pre-trial detention. Additionally, HB841 (Willis) has a proposed amendment that would allow the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board to conduct a process to de-certify police officers who exhibit a pattern of unsafe behavior, not just those who are convicted of felonies.

“The time is now to act. We want to make sure that we pick up this moment in time and leverage that. We are challenging and attempting to destroy systemic racism through all of our system of state government … and in our criminal justice system and policing,” said Sen. Elgie Sims (D-Chicago)

HB163, if amended, would eliminate the pre-trial cash bail system in Illinois in favor of allowing judges more power to detain the accused if they are deemed a public threat through a hearing system. Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago) said a prime example of the “two-tier” justice system is the case of Kyle Rittenhouse, the 17-year-old shooter accused to killing two men and injuring another during protests in Kenosha, WI this past summer.

“He's 17 years old and he was in a bar in Wisconsin hanging out with a bunch of people who were celebrating him for his terrible actions. … We're not only going to just end cash bond, but we're going to create a process that says, ‘Okay, we want to talk about your public threat to a person. Let's focus on that focus and not simply putting someone in there who can't afford to pay,” Peters said.

Law enforcement groups largely oppose the proposed changes. The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police opposes measures that would eliminate qualified immunity for police officers, require all police departments to use body cameras, and prohibit departments from participating in U.S. military surplus programs, among others.

During Saturday’s Senate Executive Committee Meeting, Judge Robbin Stuckert provided testimony on behalf of the Illinois Supreme Court’s Commission on Pretrial Practices. She explained the bill largely reflected the recommendations of the commission, but also said that the group never came to a clear consensus on the complete elimination of cash bail and opposed the immediate implementation date proposed by the co-sponsors.

In response to this criticism, Sims said Sunday that further drafts of the legislation are expected, possibly replacing the immediate effective date and expanding the bill to deal with issues such as mandatory minimum sentencing and reclassifying certain drug possession crimes, all issues discussed in Saturday’s House Judiciary Criminal Committee hearing.

In response to criticisms about the cost of implementing pre-trial reforms, Sims and others Sunday said that the long-term costs of the current systems exceed the costs of temporary implementation.

-Allison Richard

UPDATE: EMS Grant Funds for Rural Communities

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 03:48:09 GMT

Please find attached information regarding the start of the grant application process for a federal grant program that supports rural fire an emergency medical services (EMS) through the SIREN (Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs) Act. Applications for that grant process begins today.

Below is a link to additional information.

https://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/ti-21-005

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

Attorney at Law

HB 163

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 20:41:57 GMT

Below is a link to Senate amendment 2 for HB 163. This bill is part of the black caucus agenda and focuses on police reform and accountability. If you have any questions please let us know.

https://ilga.gov/legislation/101/HB/PDF/10100HB0163sam002.pdf

UPDATE: Pritzker Details Next Phase of Vaccine Distribution

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 20:40:52 GMT

About 3.2 million additional Illinoisans will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine as the state moves into the 1B distribution phase, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Wednesday at his first press conference of 2021.

The 1B phase includes frontline essential workers and all individuals 65 and older. Among those now eligible are first responders including police officers and firefighters, education workers including teachers, grocery workers, and public transit workers. Individuals working or incarcerated in corrections facilities are also eligible.

Pritzker said that Illinois is breaking with the recommendations of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) by allowing those as young as 65 to receive a vaccine, saying that the state is doing so to reduce mortality and spread in the state’s black and brown communities. The average age of death from COVID-19 is 72 for Black residents and 68 for Latino residents.

“Here in Illinois we are more strongly pursuing equity in the distribution of vaccinations. … I believe strongly that we ought to protect more of our seniors earlier than ACIP has recommended. For the last 10 months we have seen the fundamental vulnerability to COVID of the entire population of our seniors, not just those 75 or older,” Pritzker said.

A total of 207,106 vaccine doses have been administered so far, Pritzker said. He said that the rate of delivery of vaccine doses has remained lower than expected, but told reporters that he expects President-elect Joe Biden to enact the Defense Production Act once he takes office, ramping up vaccine manufacturing. Additionally, other manufacturers, such as Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca are in the process of applying for FDA approval of their vaccines.

For the next phase, Pritzker said he will use the Illinois National Guard to organize mass vaccination sites across the state. The state is also bringing on additional partners specifically to ensure the vaccine is available in historically marginalized areas of the state.

The governor also announced that on Jan. 15, regions of the state that have met the metrics needed to move down to tier 2 from tier 3 restrictions on businesses and gatherings will be able to do so. Tier 2 mitigations still include no indoor service at bars and restaurants.

An outline of the 1A and 1B vaccination phases is attached.

Allison F. Richard

Legislative Consultant

UPDATE: Surgeon General Adams Touts Vaccines, Urges Holiday Safety in Illinois

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 16:04:30 GMT

U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams visited Illinois Tuesday to tout the recent developments in COVID-19 vaccinations and urge Illinoisans to celebrate the upcoming holiday as safely as possible in order to maintain positive trends in the state.

“We are fortunately moving in the right direction here in Illinois and in Chicago, but the numbers still aren't where we need them to be. We need to stay the course. Two words for today: vaccines and vigilance. We should be incredibly excited about the fact that we now have two different vaccines authorized for use. There will be 7.9 million vaccinations that go out this week between the Moderna and the Pfizer vaccines,” Adams said.

During his visit, Adams joined Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike and Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady at St. Anthony Hospital in Chicago, where they witnessed health care workers receiving vaccinations.

Adams urged Illinoisans to celebrate the upcoming holidays at home with the people in their “bubble,” if possible. He asked those experiencing COVID-19 fatigue to stay the course.

“I want you to know that I am actually incredibly optimistic, based on the two vaccines now being available. We do have a finish line in sight. I want you to remain vigilant because it would be a real shame if we finally had the tools to end this pandemic, but then we couldn’t be patient for just a little longer,” he said.

In response to questions from reporters, Adams said that the skepticism about vaccines that often come from black and brown communities is real and justified, given the historical facts behind events such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study. However, he said both federal and local governments are doing as much as they can to provide information so that individuals in those communities can be confident in the vaccine’s safety. Adams recently publicly received a dose of the vaccine alongside Vice President Mike Pence.

Allison Richard

UPDATE: Police, Teachers May Join Next Phase of COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 03:38:37 GMT

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) officials Tuesday provided legislative members of the Restore Illinois Collaborative Commission an update on the current version of the state’s COVID-19 vaccination distribution plan, including a preview upcoming phases of distribution.

During his presentation, IDPH Deputy Director of the Office of Preparedness & Response Andrew Friend explained that Illinois is currently vaccinating group 1A, which including all individuals who work in health care settings who may indirectly or directly come in contact with patients, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

Friend said group 1B, the subsequent group to be vaccinated, currently includes adults 75 or older and workers like first responders (police, firemen), educators, critical infrastructure workers, and those working in the food and agriculture sectors. Group 1C currently includes all adults ages 65 to 74 and those individuals between ages 16 and 54 with high risk-conditions or comorbidities like heart disease. He explained that the CDC is still trying to determine who exactly falls into which group.

Friend also emphasized that different areas of the state will move from phase 1A into phases 1B and 1C at different times depending on the makeup of that specific community and the uptake rate of those individuals being vaccinated.

Friend also gave a detailed breakdown of how doses are being delivered to frontlines. Between the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, IDPH expect 485,000 doses to be administered to health care workers by the end of December, as well as 340,000 doses administered to residents and staff of long term care facilities, who will begin receiving vaccines this week.

As of Dec. 19, over 63,764 doses have been administered to health care workers. He also explained to the legislators that each individual who is vaccinated receives a card designed by the CDC that serves as both as verification of when they were vaccinated and what dose they received and as a reminder to receive their second booster dose roughly three weeks after their first.

-Allison Richard

First Illinoisans Receive Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 20:00:24 GMT

Front-line workers in health care settings were the first Illinoisans to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine Tuesday in what Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Nzogi Ezike called “the beginning of the end” for the pandemic in the state.

This week, vaccines are being administered in 96 hospitals associated with the 50 counties that have highest COVID-19 death rates per capita. Every hospital will be providing vaccinations to health care workers next week.

Gov. J.B. Pritkzer said more than 100,000 individuals will receive the vaccine in the coming days and weeks, especially as the Moderna-developed vaccine bolsters shipments. Both vaccines must be administered in two doses and have been rated as highly effective by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

“This is a beginning for the state of Illinois. People getting vaccinated, particularly our health care workers, is an exciting moment. I hope that everybody will take note that you were part of this and witnessed this. These health care workers have been working all throughout this pandemic taking care of people on the front lines. These are our heroes, and our heroes now have stepped forward to get their vaccine, and to show the way for everybody else,” the governor said at an event at the OSF St. Francis Training Center in Peoria, where five frontline workers received vaccines.

The governor explained that both local and state law enforcement are helping securely transport vaccines from the Illinois Strategic National Stockpile, where the first 43,000 doses were first received by the state, to regional hub hospitals, and then to additional hospitals in regions throughout the state. Additionally, Chicago and departments of public health in Cook, Lake County, Madison, and St. Clair counties are receiving direct shipments from the federal government.

Ezike said that she hopes seeing these early vaccinations will instill confidence in those who are concerned about the vaccine’s safety. During Tuesday’s medical update, she attempted to dispel rumors that the vaccine may contain tracking technology, may cause infertility, or may give a person COVID-19, encouraging the public to seek out multiple sources of information.

Allison F Richard

Legislative Consultant

Attorney at Law

Pritzker: ‘Ultimate Judgment’ Falls on Those Disregarding COVID-19 Safety

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 21:29:33 GMT

While spiking COVID-19 infection numbers are “moderate” in Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Monday that post-Thanksgiving numbers may still rise and excoriated public officials who skirt or ignore COVID-19 safety regulations.

“This virus wants to get transmitted in a place where people take off their masks for an extended period of time, sit across from one another, eating and drinking. That's exactly an amplification point for transmission of the virus. I feel terrible for the law-abiding bar and restaurant owners while there are others out there trying to take advantage of the public and get them sick. I think that, I suppose, there'll be ultimate judgment on those people,” Pritzker said.

Chicago Alderman Tom Tunney, former chair of the Illinois Restaurant Association, was identified as hosting indoor diners at his restaurant Monday, later stating his regrets. The governor said that restaurant and bar owners continuing to operate under mitigations have “chosen to provide opportunities for people to get sick.”

Pritzker also commented on the COVID-19 outbreak at LaSalle Veterans’ Home, acknowledging the local decisions that led to the outbreak.

“I have fought so hard to make sure people understand the importance of wearing masks, the importance of reducing opportunities for transmission, the importance of local law enforcement following through on their mission to serve and protect by ensuring mitigations are followed. These actions might seem small to some, but applied collectively and consistently, they prevent tragedies like this. This is why I'm infuriated by those who oppose proven mitigations at every turn. But now profess belated concern,” he said.

Allison F Richard

Legislative Consultant

Attorney at Law

UPDATE: State Expects 109,000 First-Round Vaccine Doses

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 01:10:17 GMT

Gov. J.B. Pritzker Tuesday said that Illinois currently expects to receive 109,000 doses in the first round of COVID-19 vaccine shipments, which would vaccinate about 54,500 people, most or all of whom will be frontline hospital workers. However, he said that the expected number of vaccine doses changes daily.

“That’s just the very first shipment. That’s not all that we will ever receive, that’s just what they are telling us today. I’m hoping that we’ll get more and I hope that number doesn’t change, but we’re at the whim of the FDA, the CDC, and the federal government as far as those first shipments,” he said.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said that they will be following data closely to see who has been immunized over the coming months and then making decisions about prioritization of available vaccines from there.

Pritzker also commented on the status of 11 long-term care facilities owned by Infinity Healthcare Management around the Chicago area as SEIU Healthcare Illinois workers enter the second week of strikes calling for hazard pay.

“Given the significant federal and state financial support for nursing homes during this pandemic, it's important that workers see that funding reflected in their workplace, in their safety, and their pay. It’s important to me that the owner and the unions are able to sit down and negotiate quickly and in good faith so that they can get back to the work that matters most: getting our residents safely through this pandemic,” he said.

He also called on Congressional leaders, who are currently discussing further pandemic stimulus legislation, to include financial relief for bars and restaurants in their plans, which he said have been some of the hardest hit businesses in the pandemic.

-Allison Richard

Tier 3 Mitigations Continue for ‘Next Few Weeks

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 05:03:15 GMT

Statewide restrictions on businesses, gatherings, and other services in the state will continue in the coming weeks, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday. Given the restrictions were only implemented on Nov. 20 and the Thanksgiving Holiday has just passed, the governor said the mitigations will need to stay in place until consistent improvements in COVID-19 positivity are seen.

The governor said he spoke by phone with Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, earlier Monday.

“I spoke with Dr. Fauci this morning to get his input about the Illinois situation. He said that the massive number of indoor gatherings by people visiting family and friends across the nation will likely bring a post-Thanksgiving surge and he believes this is no time to pull back on mitigations,” the governor said.

Pritzker said in response to questions that all restrictions that could be used to combat the pandemic remain on the table, but said that any hypothetical stay-at-home order that could be put in place after a surge would not be the exact same as that put in place in March.

Commenting on vaccinations, Pritzker said that the number of Pfizer-manufactured COVID-19 vaccinations that the state expects to receive continues to fluctuate from anywhere from 80,000 to 400,000.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike also noted that it’s possible that the state could have multiple FDA-approved vaccines available in the coming months, meaning that some that require less cold storage could be prioritized for certain areas of the state that have more logistical challenges. However, she said that the rollout of any vaccines will come in stages, potentially lasting over several months.

Pritzker also commented on the State Inspector General’s investigation into any potential misconduct at the LaSalle state-run veterans’ home, which has seen a COVID-19 outbreak that has killed 27 veterans and infected over 200 individuals.

“If there's any failure of procedure or wrongdoing, then that should be brought to the forefront and people should be held accountable,” he said.

House Republicans including Rep. Randy Frese (R-Quincy) again Monday called on Rep. Stephanie Kifowit (D-Aurora), chair of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to hold investigative hearings on the situation at LaSalle. In media reports, Kifowit has cited the House’s restrictions on holding virtual committee meetings as a reason why such panels have not been held and said that the Senate has denied requests for joint hearings on the matter.

-Allison Richard

UPDATE: Durbin Seeks Top Democratic Spot on Senate Judiciary Committee

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 18:33:35 GMT

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) announced late Monday that he would seek the minority leader spot on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee after U.S. Sen. Diane Feinstein (D-CA) announced she did not plan to retain the position in 2021.

“I intend to seek the top Democratic position on the Judiciary Committee in the 117th Congress. I have served on the Committee for 22 years, and I am its most senior member who does not currently serve atop another Senate Committee. We have to roll up our sleeves and get to work on undoing the damage of the last four years and protecting fundamental civil and human rights,” Durbin said in a statement.

“For the last four years, Republicans leading the Senate Judiciary Committee have turned a blind eye to the worst abuses of the Trump era. While President Trump assaulted the Constitution, the Judiciary Committee abdicated its oversight responsibilities and became little more than a conveyor belt to rubberstamp ideological and largely underqualified judicial nominees. The to-do list for the Senate Judiciary Committee is long, and of critical importance to the future progress of our country.”

Recently, the committee was the focus of media attention during the nomination hearings for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. In those hearings, both Durbin and Feinstein voted against her nomination, but the latter faced criticism for her appeals to bipartisanship during the hearings.

Allison Richard

UPDATE: Pritzker, Richards Provide Update on Unemployment Insurance

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 18:32:12 GMT

In Monday’s daily COVID-19 update, Gov. J.B. Pritzker was joined by Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) Acting Director Kristin Richards to provide an overview of recent efforts the department has made to support Illinoisans seeking financial support during the pandemic.

“In April of this year, alone, the Illinois Department of Employment Security processed more claims than it had in the previous 10 Aprils combined. Even compared to the other worst economic years of the last two decades, the 2020 recession has seen almost three and a half times as many regular unemployment claims compared to the first nine months of either the 2008 or 2001 recession, and it's not even close,” he said.

He urged Congress to take national action to extend the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and provide additional financial support.

“I can't overstate the implications. Without assistance from Congress five weeks from now, there will be no way to replace these benefits for the hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans impacted by these programs, which have become an essential lifeline for people who lost their jobs due to the pandemic,” he said.

Richards thanked the governor and General Assembly for increasing IDES authorized headcount for this fiscal year, but said the department already started understaffed before the pandemic hit. She also said that the department has implemented a callback-only model that allows for more individuals to apply for assistance or reach a representative than was previously possible. She said most claimants receive a callback within 7 to 10 days, but there are cases where the wait time is longer.

Pritzker and Richards were also joined by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, who explained efforts the state has taken to deal with unemployment insurance fraud, saying his office has received nearly 850 written complaints and about 4,000 hotline phone calls from individuals reporting possible fraud.

“Unfortunately, the Social Security numbers of some people have been obtained by some fraudsters as a result of a number of data breaches over the years. My office is committed to looking into this fraud and helping Illinois residents avoid being victims of identity theft,” he said.

In response to questions from reporters, Pritzker explained that some hospital bed shortages being reported around the state are due to a lack of staff to care for individuals in those beds. Additionally, he said the state is butting up against its capacity for effectively testing individuals, especially given those seeking tests before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said people have the ability to avoid spreading COVID-19 during the upcoming holiday.

“Thanksgiving hasn't happened yet. People can still change their plans and change the outcome. We don’t have to have super spreader events at homes throughout our state and throughout the country,” she said.

Allison Richard

ReplyReply allForward

UPDATE: Budget Office Predicts Major Deficits

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 21:19:06 GMT

The Office of Management and Budget late Friday released a five-year forecast on Illinois state finances, predicting budgetary shortfalls in the upcoming five years.

The report predicts “sizeable deficits” in the state’s General Funds budget in the coming years, with debt growing. The deficits would range from $4.8 billion in FY22 to $4.2 billion by FY26.

“From day one I have been committed to providing a transparent accounting of our fiscal situation and have once again begun working with leaders in the General Assembly to address our challenges,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in a statement following the projection’s release.

“While we didn’t anticipate a pandemic, we must now grapple with the economic hardship it has created while also preserving the vital state services Illinoisans rely on. I am committed to ensuring the state of Illinois returns to the path of fiscal stability we began to pave last year, while managing through this unexpected economic crisis responsibly.”

The governor earlier this year asked all state departments to include a 10 percent cut in spending for their planned FY22 budgets. The report states that Pritzker’s administration will seek to close tax loopholes in order to bolster state revenues in lieu of the graduated income tax amendment that was rejected by voters earlier in Nov.

The report notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the state and national economies, but only a small portion can be attributed to stay-at-home orders and other government restrictions.

“COVID-19 and the stay at home orders had a widespread impact on the economy, but the government-imposed closures appear to only be a part of what caused this massive contraction of employment and economic output. Austan Goolsbee and Chad Syverson, economists at the University of Chicago, examined ‘cellular phone records data on customer visits to more than 2.25 million individual businesses across 110 different industries.’ They determined that ‘while overall consumer traffic fell by 60 percentage points, legal restrictions explain only 7 percentage points of this.’,” the report states.

Click here for full report.

Allison Richard