A police omnibus bill passed through the Illinois Legislature has drawn opposition as Rep. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) is asking Gov. J.B. Pritzker for a veto. | Stock Photo
A police omnibus bill passed through the Illinois Legislature has drawn opposition as Rep. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) is asking Gov. J.B. Pritzker for a veto. | Stock Photo
As far as Rep. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) is concerned, a police omnibus bill advanced out of a lame-duck session will only hurt law enforcement.
Chesney has thrown support behind Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle, who testified that criminal justice reform threatened public safety while opposing the unfunded mandates and process which pushed the bill through the session.
The Freeport City Council has also objected to the bill, Chesney posted on his legislative website.
Among Chesney's top concerns are ending cash bail for most defendants, anonymous complaints police officers without repercussions and the unfunded mandates, such as requiring police to wear body cameras. The bill fails to make people safer, nor does it include a collaborative process with stakeholders.
“I join our local officials in urging Gov. [J.B] Pritzker veto this flawed bill,” Chesney said. “While the governor has indicated support for soft-on-crime policies, it is important we show law enforcement that we support those who protect and serve. We speak out against elected officials who purport to serve while making our communities more dangerous.
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