Illinois State Rep. Mike Coffey (R-Springfield)
State Government: Agencies/Departments/Divisions | Elected State Legislators
Recent News About Illinois State Rep. Mike Coffey (R-Springfield)
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Rep. Coffey Reacts to IL State Trooper Shot in Springfield
Late Tuesday night, an Illinois State Trooper was shot in the leg during a routine traffic stop on Toronto Road in Springfield. The suspect, believed to be wanted on murder charges in Chicago, fired several shots at the trooper before fleeing the scene on foot. The trooper is currently in serious condition at a local hospital.State Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) expressed his sadness and concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of supporting law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. Rep. Coffey stated,...
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SAFE-T Act Exacerbates Public Defender Shortage in Illinois
The implementation of the SAFE-T Act, which abolished cash bail in Illinois, is having significant effects on the state's public defender system. With the majority of counties in Illinois facing resource challenges, the impact of this controversial law is becoming more apparent.Under current law, only counties with 35,000 or more residents are required to have offices of public defenders, and even then, they are not required to be full-time. As a result, more than half of Illinois' counties do not have full-time public defenders. This disparity in resources has been...
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High School Trades and Apprenticeship Programs Taking Hold in Illinois
I had the privilege of speaking with Leadership Springfield, a program that aims to develop leadership skills and provide in-depth exposure to critical issues affecting the Springfield area. This week, I, along with my colleagues from the General Assembly, had the opportunity to engage with the participants of this great program.One of the key takeaways from our discussions was the increasing popularity and effectiveness of high school trades and apprenticeship programs in Illinois. These programs are offering multiple career pathway opportunities for high school...
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State Representative and Visitor Tour Sparc Work Center, Witnessing the Impact on Special Needs Individuals
State Representative Wayne Rosenthal and a visitor recently had the opportunity to tour the Sparc Work Center, a facility dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The tour provided an insight into the incredible work being done at Sparc to empower and uplift the lives of these individuals.Sparc has been a pillar of support for individuals with special needs for several decades. Their commitment to helping these individuals reach their full potential is truly commendable. The center not only provides a sense of purpose and...
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Save Our Scholarship Rally Supports Invest in Kids Act
Springfield, IL - Christ the King Grade School hosted a Save Our Scholarship Rally earlier this week, where students and families highlighted the significance of the Invest in Kids Act. State Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) expressed his support for the scholarship program, emphasizing its importance:"I fully support the Invest in Kids Act and believe this program needs to be secured by legislators. It’s very important to our communities that we provide outstanding programs, such as this one, that creates a foundation for a prosperous...
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Illinois House Republicans Address Growing Problem of Technology Addiction
Technology addiction is a growing problem in Illinois and the rest of the world. As more people become dependent on technology, negative impacts on mental and physical health are increasing. The statistics are alarming, with the average person spending nearly nine hours a day in front of an electronic device. Cell phones are unlocked 150 times a day on average, and 72 percent of teens and nearly half of adults feel the need to immediately respond to texts and other notifications. Americans check their phones nearly 100 times a day, a 20 percent increase from a similar...
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Support for Law Enforcement Petition Gains Momentum
A petition titled "Back the Badge" is gaining momentum as it seeks to show support for law enforcement officers who are facing criticism from politicians advocating for "Soft-On-Crime" policies. The petition, initiated by an anonymous individual, aims to send a clear message to lawmakers in Springfield that the community stands firmly behind the police officers who work tirelessly to ensure public safety.The author of the petition encourages individuals to show their support by signing the document. By doing so, people can demonstrate their appreciation for the brave men...
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Happy Birthday to Our U.S. Navy
On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress made a historic resolution to adopt the U.S. Navy. Today, we celebrate the 248th anniversary of this momentous occasion, as our U.S. Navy stands proud as a symbol of strength and dedication.The establishment of the U.S. Navy was a significant milestone in American history. As stated by the Naval History and Heritage Command, the Congress resolved to create "a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible dispatch, for a cruise of three...
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National Farmer's Day Celebrates the Dedication and Contribution of Farmers
National Farmer's Day, celebrated on October 12, 2023, is a significant occasion that allows us to recognize and appreciate the tireless efforts of the hardworking men and women who play a vital role in feeding and fueling our communities. It is a day to express gratitude to the farmers and ranchers who dedicate their lives to plowing, sowing, raising, feeding, and harvesting to provide the food and materials that sustain our world.One state that stands out in its commitment to supporting local agriculture is Illinois, which proudly holds the third position in the nation...
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Rep. Coffey Celebrates Illinois Manufacturing Month
Rep. Coffey, a representative from the 95th District, recently celebrated Illinois Manufacturing Month by highlighting the importance of manufacturing jobs in the state. As part of the month-long celebration, Rep. Coffey visited various manufacturing facilities and engaged with industry leaders.One of the highlights of Rep. Coffey's visit was his stop at Mel-O-Cream Donuts International, where he was greeted with their signature donuts. This small gesture symbolized the appreciation for local businesses and their contribution to the manufacturing sector in Illinois.In...
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Concerns intensify over end of Illinois cash bail
On September 18, Illinois courts ceased to enjoy the power to demand that accused criminal defendants post cash bail. Pointing to the radical nature of the change in Illinois pretrial procedure, the international newsweekly “The Economist” ran a story, datelined in Chicago, that was headlined “Ending cash bail: Busting out.” The widely-read magazine/online news service alluded to “the fear that dangerous criminals will be let free,” as the courts will no longer have the legal right to detain them during the substantial lengths of time (often greater than 12 months) that...
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Illinois Insurance Marketplace Offers Competitive Rates for Residents
The insurance marketplace in Illinois has traditionally been one of the most competitive in the country, providing residents with lower monthly premiums compared to national averages. Various factors, including age and location, play a role in determining insurance rates. However, maintaining a competitive market is crucial to ensure Illinois residents have access to affordable insurance options.One of the most competitive insurance sectors in Illinois is car insurance. Age and driving history significantly impact car insurance rates in the state. Younger...