Sangamon Sun

A new law in Illinois will require public schools to conduct annual mental health screenings for all students from grade 3 through high school graduation, with full statewide implementation targeted for the 2027-2028 school year. Public Act 104-32 sets out guidelines for local districts and includes an opt-out provision allowing parents to excuse their children from participation.

The legislation passed the Illinois House by a vote of 72-36 along party lines, with House Republicans voting against it. Opponents cited concerns about over-diagnosis and diminishing the role of families in supporting children's development. A mental health expert quoted in The Hill warned that such initiatives may result in caregivers distributing screening tools that could lead to over-diagnosis of mental health conditions.

On tax policy, lawmakers have not yet revised state procedures for property tax sales following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Tyler vs. Hennepin County. That ruling found it unconstitutional for local governments to keep surplus proceeds from property tax sales beyond what is owed in taxes, penalties, and interest. While other states affected by the decision have updated their laws, Illinois has not enacted changes despite several bills being assigned to committee since May 2023.

As a result, county collectors remain exposed to lawsuits seeking damages related to past property tax sales. If counties lose these cases or settle unfavorably, they may be permitted under current law to increase property taxes further, potentially impacting taxpayers across affected counties.

In legislative news, State Representative Patrick Sheehan filed a resolution honoring Charlie Kirk after his death on September 10 at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. Kirk was a native of Arlington Heights who co-founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and became known nationally as a conservative activist and advocate for free speech.

“I’m heartbroken by the senseless violence that took Charlie Kirk’s life,” Rep. Sheehan said. “Charlie was a man of deep faith and fearless conviction. His courage moved people, challenged culture, and sparked dialogue across the country. We must reject political violence in all its forms. Honoring Charlie means committing ourselves to peaceful, non-partisan dialogue no matter our differences in belief.”

State Rep. Mike Coffey also commented on Kirk’s legacy: “Charlie Kirk had a strong heart, clear vision, and his voice touched countless lives across the country,” said Coffey. “He stood for values that reflect America and he inspired countless lives to stand up and speak up about issues they believe in through meaningful conversations. We will remember Charlie and honor his life the way he would expect us to.” Coffey is a Republican who was elected to represent Illinois’ 95th House District in 2023 (https://www.ilga.gov/house/Rep.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3226).

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie released this statement: “My heart is broken, and I am angry. Charlie Kirk was assassinated in a senseless act of violence. My prayers are with his family, friends, and all who loved him.

“It is deeply disturbing that hatred has escalated to the point where lives are being stolen. That this happened while he was speaking on political violence at a university, a place that should be dedicated to free speech and the open exchange of ideas, makes it even more tragic. If ideas cannot be debated on campus without fear of violence, we have truly lost our way.”

Kirk is survived by his wife Erika Lane Frantzve, their two children, and his parents Robert and Kimberly Ann Kirk.

Authorities report that the suspected shooter is now in custody.