I stood alongside my colleagues, Reps. Tom Weber and Steve Reick, united in calling for urgent and bipartisan reform to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
The July 2025 compliance report from the Illinois Auditor General uncovered 34 violations at DCFS. Even more troubling, 29 of those were repeat failures. As a member of the House Adoption and Child Welfare Committee, a mother, and a concerned Illinois citizen, I find that unacceptable.
One of the most heartbreaking stories is the heartbreaking death of 18-year-old Mackenzi Felmlee in a foster home in Fairview Heights. DCFS placed Mackenzi in a home where she was subjected to years of abuse.
That’s why I’m co-sponsoring HB1797 with Rep. Weber to close a dangerous loophole. Under current law, DCFS is only required to notify law enforcement when specific types of abusers are reported. HB1797 would change that, ensuring every report of abuse or neglect gets automatically shared with the appropriate local law enforcement agency.
Governor Pritzker and DCFS Director Heidi Mueller must act immediately. The recommendations from the Auditor General’s report cannot gather dust. We need transparency, we need accountability, and most of all, we need to keep our children safe.
See my full remarks from the press conference below:
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No More Taxes!
Illinois families just like mine can’t afford a new service tax that penalizes their everyday life. I’m committed to stopping it before it starts.
Watch my thoughts here: Video | Facebook
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Aspire Ribbon Cutting
My team and I had the honor of attending Aspire’s ribbon cutting for a beautifully renovated, universally designed home for adults with disabilities. Thoughtfully built with accessible features and located in a welcoming neighborhood, it offers not just comfort but true community.
Thank you to Aspire for your incredible work. Events like this reaffirm why I love serving the people of Illinois.
See all the pictures here: Aspire Ribbon Cutting (w/Photos) – Nicole La Ha
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Honored to be Featured in IML Review
I was honored to be featured in the Illinois Municipal League’s IML Review for my advocacy on behalf of individuals with disabilities. This work is personal to me. It’s shaped by my own family, people I’ve met, stories I’ve heard, and families I’ve come to know. Every policy I support in this space is inspired by the goal of making sure no one is left behind and everyone has a fair shot at independence, safety, and belonging. It means a lot to see that commitment recognized, and I’ll keep fighting for a world where people with disabilities have every opportunity to thrive.
Read about how I’m reshaping public spaces in Illinois: The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans: La Ha is reshaping public spaces in Illinois
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At the July 28 Village Board meeting, Lemont officials announced the appointment of Jason LoCoco as the town’s next Chief of Police, following the retirement of longtime Chief Marc Maton. LoCoco, a 25-year veteran of the Illinois State Police and Lemont resident, was selected after an extensive search process. The Village cited his deep experience in public safety, training, crisis management, and leadership as key factors, stating confidence in his ability to continue the department’s legacy of excellence. Read the full story here: New Chief Of Police Chosen For Lemont | Lemont, IL Patch
Congratulations, Chief LoCoco!
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Don’t forget to check out our FREE Recycle Event this Saturday in Darien!
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My District Office is now offering notary services by appointment! Click the link to learn about all the ways my office can help you and how to get in touch with us!