Over the past two weeks, I was proud to advance three important pieces of legislation that move us in the right direction when it comes to public safety and supporting victims. All three of these bills have now passed the House unanimously. Each one addresses a real gap in our system and offers a practical way to better serve people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
House Bill 5580 focuses on improving communication across our justice system. When the Illinois State Police identify a consistent DNA profile, this bill ensures that law enforcement and State’s Attorneys are automatically notified in writing through the state’s Laboratory Information Management System. Clear communication can make a real difference in how quickly cases move forward. When critical evidence is identified, the right people need that information without delay so justice is not held up and families are not left waiting.
House Bill 4654 takes a step forward in the fight against human trafficking. This legislation requires clear, visible resource notices in public restrooms at Illinois roadside rest areas. These locations can offer a rare moment of privacy for someone in a dangerous situation. By placing resources where they can be seen in that moment, we create an opportunity for someone to reach out for help and take a step toward safety.
House Bill 4659 addresses an issue many people never see. For many survivors of domestic violence, the harm continues long after they leave. Financial abuse is a common reality, and in many cases, survivors are coerced into taking on debt they never chose. Some only discover that debt once it has already gone to collections. This bill creates an affirmative defense in court, giving survivors the opportunity to share their experience and challenge that debt so they can begin to rebuild their lives.
These efforts reflect my continued commitment to making sure our laws respond with urgency, clarity, and compassion. Public safety is strengthened when our systems work the way they should and when people who need help have a real path forward. I will continue pushing for solutions that protect our communities and support those who need it most.
Spring Photo Contest
Spring is a beautiful time across our district, and I’m excited to invite you to take part in my Spring Photo Contest. There’s something special about the moments we pass by every day; the changing seasons, familiar places, and snapshots of life that tell the story of our community. This is a chance to slow down, capture those moments, and share what makes this area home for so many of us.
Submit your favorite original photo by June 19 to [email protected]. The winning photo will be featured on my website, shared on my social media, and displayed in my District Office. I’m looking forward to seeing our community through your eyes.
Mayor’s Roundtable
I recently had the privilege of hosting my first annual Mayor’s Roundtable for District 82.
It was a productive and engaging discussion covering a wide range of important issues, such as property taxes, residential and commercial zoning concerns, and addressing the broader challenges coming out of Springfield, including unfunded mandates and proposed changes with Local Government Distribution Funding that will directly impact our local municipalities.
Thank you to all the mayors who were able to attend, as well as Senator John Curran. It is apparent that our District 82 mayors are passionate about ensuring our communities thrive. I am extremely grateful to be part of these important conversations.
A special thank you to the Indian Prairie Public Library for hosting us, and to Digs on McCarthy feat. Gelsosomo’s & Jimbo’s Pizza in Lemont for the great lunch!
Working together, we will continue to strengthen our communities.
Meeting with Together for Youth with IDD Coalition
I had great conversations last week with the Together for Youth with IDD Coalition.
This is a group that shows up, speaks up, and brings real perspective to the table. Their advocacy comes from lived experience, and it carries weight.
We talked about the importance of continuity in care and making sure young adults and their families aren’t left navigating uncertainty at a critical point in life. These are important conversations, and voices that deserve to be heard.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect and look forward to continuing our work together this year!
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