Illinois State Senator Andrew Chesney highlighted his recent activities with students and called for changes to the SAFE-T Act in a statement released on May 4.
Chesney said he participated in Ag Day with the Durand FFA, praising students and educators for their work. He described the event as an opportunity to see agriculture education in action, noting, “It was impressive to see FFA members take the lead in organizing interactive stations and sharing their knowledge with attendees. The level of preparation and pride they showed in their work speaks volumes about the strength of these programs.” Chesney added that hearing from students about their projects was encouraging for the future of local agriculture.
He also reported meeting East Dubuque eighth-grade students during their visit to the Illinois Capitol. Chesney said he answered questions about his role as a state senator, how laws are made, and how state decisions affect communities. “They came prepared and asked thoughtful questions, which is always great to see. It’s encouraging to watch students take an interest in how government works and to help connect what they’re learning in the classroom to the real world,” he said.
Chesney visited Meridian Junior High School in Stillman Valley where he discussed state government with students who asked about lawmaking processes and budgeting. He met with Superintendent Dr. Michael Plourde and School Board President John Smith regarding district priorities.
Addressing public safety concerns, Chesney criticized Illinois’ SAFE-T Act after a Chicago police officer was killed recently. “I am sick and tired of watching good men and women in blue bleed in the streets because Illinois Democrats put criminals first with their radical SAFE-T Act,” Chesney said. He argued that current policies allow repeat offenders back onto streets too easily: “The SAFE-T Act has turned our pretrial system into a revolving door for violent criminals.” He urged passage of Senate Bill 4195 and House Bill 5757: “If you commit a new felony while on pretrial release, you stay behind bars. No more excuses.”
Chesney is a Republican who was elected to represent Illinois’ 45th Senate District beginning in 2023, replacing Brian Stewart according to Ballotpedia.
Chesney concluded by saying that reforms or repeal are needed: “We must protect our residents and back the blue. The SAFE-T Act must be fixed or scrapped before more heroes pay the ultimate price.”
