NW Illinois News

Rep. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) says not everything in the state’s Capitol is contentious.

In a May 12 Facebook post, Chesney pointed out that the Illinois General Assembly does work together to get things done.

"While it might not seem to be the case, not everything that occurs in our state’s Capitol is contentious. Republican and Democrat lawmakers came together this year to address, among other issues, the teacher shortage, veteran care, and nursing home reform,” Chesney posted.

He shared a link to a column he wrote, which included a rundown of some of the things that the Illinois General Assembly had accomplished in a bipartisan manner during session. That included a focus on creating accountability within Illinois' veterans' homes - with the Veterans' Accountability Unit. Working independently of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the unit is tasked with soliciting, reviewing, and addressing complaints from residents of Illinois’ veteran homes and their families, as well as from visitors, vendors, contractors, and department staff. Any complaints, allegations, and incidents uncovered by the Veterans Accountability Unit will be reported to the Office of the Executive Inspector General for further action. The goal is to identify potential life-safety issues and suggest actions to the Department to ensure proper action is taken to protect veterans in the care of the state.

The General Assembly also worked together to pass laws aimed at helping the state's teachers, and to resolve the educator shortage that is plaguing Illinois and much of the country. Chesney wrote about increasing the number of days substitute teachers can work in classrooms through SB 3893, and allowing a short-term substitute to spend more time in a district if necessary, up to 15 consecutive days, thanks to SB 3907. Legislators also waived fees for short term substitutes in a public health emergency, and passed HB 4798 to allow qualified college students in an approved educator preparation program in the State of Illinois who have earned at least 90 credit hours to be eligible to substitute teach.

Finally, he highlighted House Bill 246, which regulates nursing home funding, with incentives to enhance staffing levels and provide more direct care to residents.