Sangamon Sun

In Grundy County, the release of a suspect in a fentanyl case has sparked calls for changes to the SAFE-T Act. Local authorities arrested two Honduran nationals with 3 kilograms of fentanyl, capable of killing 1.5 million people. Despite the severity, one suspect was released within 48 hours due to an inability to access his criminal history during the mandated pre-trial release hearing.

The other suspect remains detained under an Immigration Detainer Warrant. Post-release, officials learned from California that the freed individual had a juvenile record, which could have influenced detention decisions if known earlier. Critics argue this highlights flaws in the SAFE-T Act's 48-hour requirement for gathering evidence before hearings.

Lawmakers are now considering amendments to classify Class X felony fentanyl charges as automatically detainable unless defendants prove eligibility for pre-trial release. Senator Bennett emphasized reform urgency: “Our law enforcement needs the time and authority to make informed decisions for the safety of our communities.”

The Illinois General Assembly’s Fall Veto Session will occur November 12-14 and November 19-21, allowing legislators to revisit unresolved issues despite no gubernatorial vetoes this year.

Separately, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office launched "One Road. One Focus," a campaign against distracted driving among teens. This includes mandatory educational videos during learners' permit phases and collaboration with state police and transportation departments on designated "Distracted Driver Corridors."

Additionally, Illinois owes $1.7 billion to state vendors with over 15,000 pending vouchers as reported by the Comptroller's office.

Finally, job opportunities at the Illinois Department of Transportation are available through their electronic careers page.