Sangamon Sun

Legislation aimed at protecting affordable housing for veterans has progressed as State Senator Sally Turner's Senate Bill 39 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill seeks to exempt tiny homes for at-risk veterans from certain regulations. Turner emphasized that veterans deserve support beyond gratitude and acknowledged the Central Illinois Veterans Commission's efforts in providing homes.

The bill also ensures that the 2023 Electric Vehicle Charging Act's provisions do not apply to these homes, provided they are built by qualified nonprofits. Marsha Fernandes of the Central Illinois Veterans Commission supported the bill, noting it continues the work of Joe Schaler, who advocated for homeless veterans.

Senate Bill 39 now awaits further consideration by the full Senate.

In another legislative development, Illinois Senate Republicans introduced a new bill requiring state law enforcement to coordinate with ICE. Sponsored by Senator Neil Anderson, Senate Bill 1313 targets undocumented immigrants convicted of serious crimes for deportation. Republicans argue this addresses a contradiction in Governor J.B. Pritzker’s public safety stance and call for repealing the TRUST Act to enhance cooperation with federal authorities.

Additionally, State Senator Steve McClure filed legislation addressing sexual assault in schools. Senate Bill 98 mandates expulsion for students found guilty of sexual assault or violence at school events. This initiative follows an incident in Taylorville and aims to protect victims while ensuring offenders face consequences.

The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault endorsed the bill, emphasizing its potential to improve how schools handle such cases.

Meanwhile, a report ranked Illinois 38th nationally for education freedom due to ending the Invest in Kids program. State Senator Sally Turner advocates launching a similar program to offer students choices in their education.

Illinois faces economic challenges with high unemployment and slow job growth. The state's unemployment rate was 5.2% in December, lagging behind national trends. Turner believes comprehensive tax reform is crucial for reversing these issues and promoting job growth.

Lastly, Turner relaunched her "Valentines for Seniors" card drive to uplift residents of long-term care facilities in her district ahead of Valentine's Day.