Sangamon Sun

Illinois’ recent decision to eliminate cash bail has drawn national attention after President Trump signed an executive order on August 25, directing federal agencies to consider blocking funding to states that have ended the practice. The president claims the policy threatens public safety. Illinois was the first state in the nation to end cash bail in 2023 under the SAFE-T Act, a move criticized by Republicans who argue it limits law enforcement’s ability to detain dangerous offenders. Critics say this change has led to repeat and violent offenders being released while communities are negatively impacted.

State Senator Sally Turner commented on the issue: "Illinois families deserve a justice system that prioritizes victims and law enforcement over criminals, not reckless policies that put ideology ahead of safety and reward criminals." She is urging Democratic leaders to repeal the SAFE-T Act and reinstate previous accountability measures.

As students return for a new school year, Illinois families and educators can access tax credits designed to help with education costs. Parents may qualify for the K-12 Education Expense Credit, which offers up to $750 per household by allowing families to claim 25 percent of eligible expenses above $250. This includes tuition, book rentals, and lab fees paid directly to schools; some home-schooling expenses may also qualify if tied to an approved curriculum. Last year, about 200,000 families used this credit, saving an average of $324.

Educators can apply for the Instructional Materials and Supplies Credit. Full-time K-12 teachers, aides, counselors, and principals working at least 900 hours during the school year can receive up to $500 in credits; married couples filing jointly who are both educators may receive up to $1,000. In 2024 alone, more than 81,000 Illinois educators benefited from this credit with total savings exceeding $35 million.

Senator Turner stated: "These tax credits are a practical way to help ease the financial burden of a new school year," encouraging families and teachers to keep receipts and file for relief.

More information is available at https://tax.illinois.gov/ using IDOR Publication 112.

Ameren Illinois has launched a program offering one-time grants of $150 toward electricity bills for income-qualified households as energy costs rise during summer months. The initiative sets aside $4 million for distribution through local Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) agencies. Families interested in applying should visit https://www.helpillinoisfamilies.com/ or call 833-711-0374 while funds last.

LIHEAP will reopen applications on October 1 with additional benefits such as waived deposits and late fees. Ameren continues promoting its energy efficiency programs—like home assessments or upgrades—that can reduce long-term costs (https://amerenillinois.com/pathtosavings).

A new law has established the Care for Retired Police Dogs Grant Program in Illinois through House Bill 3140. The program reimburses handlers or adoptive families up to $1,500 annually for veterinary care if their K9s served at least five years—or three years if injured on duty. Funding comes from sales of Illinois’ K-9 Memorial License Plate rather than taxpayer dollars; at least 2,000 license plate requests must be received by January 2028 before launch.

The legislation aims to honor police dogs’ service while supporting those caring for them after retirement.

Tourism in Illinois reached record levels in 2024 according to data from Tourism Economics cited by state officials. The state welcomed approximately 113 million domestic and international visitors last year—an increase of half a million over the prior year—with spending reaching $48.5 billion (up by $1.3 billion). This activity generated about $4.7 billion in state/local tax revenue and supported more than 280,000 tourism-related jobs statewide.

Senator Turner noted: "Tourism is a vital part of our state’s economic success," adding that these figures provide relief for industry workers still recovering from pandemic shutdowns imposed across Illinois.

For area residents interested in outdoor activities, Senator Turner and State Representative Regan Deering will host a free Youth Fishing Derby at Weldon Springs State Park in Clinton on Saturday, September 6 from 10 a.m.–noon. Children of all ages are welcome without needing fishing licenses; admission is free with refreshments provided and prizes available. Staff from both the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Police will assist during the event at Weldon Springs State Park (4734 Weldon Springs Road). For details contact Senator Turner’s office at (217)651-8291 or Representative Deering’s office at (217)876-1968.

Turner was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 44th Senate District in 2021 following Bill Brady's tenure.