Sangamon Sun

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced plans to address the ongoing migrant crisis in the state by launching a new intake center and shelter site in Chicago. The move comes as Chicago has received nearly 30,000 individuals and families seeking asylum since August 2022. The funds allocated by the governor's office will support supplies, hotel rooms, and eventually a shelter at a former CVS in Little Village.

However, Senator Bennett has criticized the governor's actions, stating that Pritzker is trying to avoid responsibility for the problem he created. Bennett claims that the governor spent years encouraging non-citizens to come to Illinois and is now faced with the consequences.

In another development, several Illinois sheriffs have announced that they will not enforce the state's new gun restriction, known as the "Protect Illinois Communities Act." The law, which immediately banned the sale of certain firearms and accessories, has been opposed by Senator Bennett. He believes that the law is unconstitutional and turns law-abiding citizens into criminals.

The Illinois State Police have reported that nearly 30,000 gun owners have registered their banned weapons in compliance with the new law. Failure to register a banned weapon will result in a misdemeanor charge on the first offense and a felony charge on the second offense. However, local State Attorneys have the authority to decide whether or not to charge individuals violating the law.

In a separate case, the racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has been postponed for six months. Madigan, who resigned after losing the House speakership in January 2021, is facing multiple charges related to alleged improper dealings with the state's largest utility, Commonwealth Edison. The trial has been delayed pending a Supreme Court decision in a bribery case related to the scandal.

Moving on to road safety, the Illinois State Police are launching a new campaign targeting road rage. The "Road Rage. Don't Engage" campaign aims to educate the public on the signs of road rage and provide tips on how to prevent it. According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly 80% of drivers reported aggressive driving behaviors. State Police urge drivers to avoid following too closely, improper lane changing, driving on the shoulder, not signaling for turns, and speeding.

In a personnel change, Governor Pritzker has appointed Heidi Mueller as the new Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Mueller, who currently serves as the Director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, will take over the role on February 1. The appointment comes after a report revealed issues within the troubled agency, with 50 more children dying while on the radar of DCFS in 2022 compared to the previous year.

Lastly, Senator Bennett is calling on the community to show their love and appreciation for senior citizens this Valentine's Day. He is collecting homemade Valentine's cards to be delivered to seniors living in retirement homes, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities throughout the 53rd District. Individuals and groups are encouraged to drop off their cards at 1715 N. Division St. Suite E Morris, IL 60450 by February 5th.

This has been your update from Senator Bennett for January 12th, 2024. Stay tuned for more news and updates from the 53rd District.