On January 8th, I proudly took the oath of office during the inauguration ceremony of the 104th Illinois General Assembly. The ceremony, held at the Sangamon Auditorium on the campus of the University of Illinois Springfield, marked the start of a new chapter in our state government. This milestone reminds me of the privilege and responsibility I have as your State Representative to serve our district with integrity and dedication.
I was honored to return to Springfield this week to represent you and your families. This term, I remain committed to tackling the issues that matter most to our district and state: empowering parents, supporting families, promoting fiscal responsibility, and ensuring public safety. As your voice in the legislature, I’ll work tirelessly to make our government more accountable and responsive to your needs.
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NEWS
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Dignity in Pay Act Signed into Law
Last week, my daughter and I were able to attend the “Dignity in Pay” bill signing. This law states people who live with disabilities now will receive at least minimum wage. This is not a perfect bill; however, I feel it’s a good start to recognizing the contributions our loved ones can make.
This ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate progress, but also a call to be relentless in ensuring this is successful here in Illinois, for the sake of this community and all our loved ones who live with disability. Now more than ever, we must support business owners choosing to employ our loved ones so they can continue to host these opportunities successfully.
Much work is still needed, but today was a special moment to share with my daughter. I hope she always knows I will be here fighting for her and others just like her.
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House Republican Leadership Team Announced
The 104th General Assembly is already off to a strong start with the announcement of Illinois House Republican Leader Tony McCombie’s leadership team. This team reflects the diverse voices of Illinois, bringing together thoughtful leaders from southern, central, and northern Illinois. Their representation ensures that every corner of the state has a seat at the table as we work to move Illinois forward.
Leadership members include Deputy Minority Leaders Rep. Norine Hammond (94 – Macomb) and Rep. Ryan Spain (73 – Peoria). The Assistant Minority Leaders are Rep. CD Davidsmeyer (100 – Murrayville), Rep. John Cabello (90 – Machesney Park), Rep. Dan Ugaste (65 – Geneva), Rep. Patrick Windhorst (117 – Metropolis), Rep. Brad Stephens (20 – Rosemont), Rep. Jackie Haas (79 – Bourbonnais), and Rep. Amy Elik (111 – Alton). The team is rounded out by Rep. Jeff Keicher (70 – Sycamore), who serves as Conference Chair.
This group is committed to advocating for policies that promote fiscal responsibility, prioritize public safety, and reduce the burdens on Illinois families. I am proud to work alongside this leadership team as we tackle the challenges facing our state and champion solutions that benefit all Illinoisans.
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Protecting Our Most Vulnerable: Addressing Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is one of the gravest issues facing our communities today, and it requires a strong, united response. Recently, the Illinois State Police (ISP) conducted a sting operation in McLean County to combat trafficking and bring justice to survivors. This operation, part of a multifaceted effort to address human trafficking, involved collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, the Bloomington Police Department, and the McLean County State’s Attorney’s Office.
While these arrests are a step in the right direction, the SAFE-T Act has unfortunately created gaps in accountability. Of the six individuals arrested during this operation, five were released before trial, despite facing felony charges for attempting to engage in commercial sex acts with underage victims. This lack of accountability endangers communities and underscores the need for reforms to ensure that offenders face justice.
As your representative, I will continue to fight for policies that protect survivors and hold offenders accountable. If you suspect human trafficking, please contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Together, we can take a stand against this heinous crime and work toward a safer Illinois for all.
To read more about how my colleagues and I are fighting to end human trafficking in Illinois, click here: The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans: Illinois Legislators Continue to Target Human Trafficking
Also, listen to the Capital Crimes podcast on Human Trafficking below, where I am featured:
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Valentines for Veterans
This Valentine’s Day, let’s come together to honor our veterans with heartfelt messages of appreciation. My office is hosting a “Valentines for Veterans” card drive, and I encourage residents of all ages to participate. These cards are a simple yet meaningful way to show our gratitude for the men and women who’ve bravely served our country.
You can drop off your cards at my district office, located at 106 Stephen Street, Suite 102B, in Lemont, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m, or Friday 9 a.m. to 1p.m. All cards must be received by February 13, as I will personally deliver them to local veterans on Valentine’s Day.
Our veterans have given so much for our freedom and safety. This small act of kindness can brighten their day and remind them that their sacrifices are not forgotten. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day a special one for our heroes.
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Modernizing Road Tests for Seniors
One bill proud to co-sponsor this session is House Bill 1226, which looks to modernize Illinois’ driver’s license renewal process for older adults. Illinois is currently the only state with mandatory road tests based solely on age, and it’s time for a more thoughtful and fair approach. This bill proposes raising the age for mandatory road tests from 79 to 87, reflecting the unique abilities of individual drivers rather than applying a one-size-fits-all policy.
Under this legislation, drivers aged 79 and 80 would only be required to take a vision test when renewing their license. Biennial renewals, without a road test, would apply to drivers aged 81 to 86. Annual renewals, including road tests, would begin at age 87. This approach balances safety with respect for our senior residents, who deserve fairness and dignity in this process.
As we move this legislation forward, I’ll continue to advocate for reforms that make Illinois a better place to live for all generations. It’s an honor to collaborate with Representative Jeff Keicher and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias on this initiative, which reflects our commitment to respect and equity for our seniors.
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RESOURCES
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Free Museum Passes for Families
Did you know that families in the 82nd District can explore Chicago’s world-class museums for free? My Education Resource Card program provides access to institutions like the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Museum of Science and Industry. These passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so call my office at (630) 410-8466 to reserve yours today!
This program is designed to make educational and cultural experiences accessible to everyone. Whether you’re interested in science, history, or art, these passes provide an opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
I hope you’ll take advantage of this incredible resource and explore the many wonders Chicago has to offer. From the Art Institute to the Brookfield Zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Call my office to reserve your pass today!
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How to Engage with the Legislature this Session
This month, the Illinois General Assembly returned to session, with a scheduled conclusion in May. During session, legislators spend a significant amount of time in Springfield. This can make it difficult for residents to engage with the legislative process, but there are options to stay involved.
- Communicate with legislators. This is one of the ways residents can continue to stay involved and further engage. Elected officials offer email addresses, district and Springfield office locations, office numbers, and surveys that residents can utilize: contact information can be found on ilga.gov/house. In both district and Springfield offices, legislators have different staff that field calls, emails, and meetings with residents and then report back to the official. Each legislator has a varying set up, but typically, either office may be contacted to leave a message for the legislator.
- Utilize a legislator’s government social media and website. Each House Republican member has a legislative website you can view updates on session, legislation, and upcoming events. On these websites and applications, legislators update the residents of their district on daily and weekly occurrences with information on legislation, events, district updates, Springfield updates, projects, and resources.
- Watch legislative session live on the Illinois General Assembly (ILGA) website. You can see the action on the House floor, and much more! This is a state website that encompasses all elements of bills, committees, legislators, audio and video, and more that is all crucial to the legislative processes. The site is free to use and is updated frequently to reflect changes.
Check out more ideas to stay engaged below:
- How to Find Your Local, State, and National elected officials? Click on the map on the State Board of Elections – Find My Elected Officials webpage and enter your address. Or you can use the handy maps at this website: Find and contact your Illinois state senator, house representative or Chicago alderman | Illinois Policy
- Who are the current members of the Illinois General Assembly? Find them here along with phone numbers, short bios, addresses, bills sponsored, and committee assignments: Illinois General Assembly – Senate Members and Illinois General Assembly – House Members.
- Looking for an overall guide to the legislative process? This Citizen Guide provides a lot of helpful information.
- Interested in knowing all about witness slips or the process behind filing one? Find info here Microsoft Word – ILGA Dashboard User Guide.docx and here How to File a Witness Slip | Illinois State Bar Association.
- Voters seeking more information on their candidates, voting by mail, voter registration, election results and more can head to the State Board of Elections website.
- How to view a session recording after it has ended? Using the respective links for the House or Senate allows citizens to search for what day of session they would like to view.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. It’s an honor to represent you in Springfield, and I look forward to working together to build a stronger Illinois. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 630-410-8466 or by clicking HERE.