NW Illinois News

Senator Chesney of the 45th District has announced the launch of a new program called "Valentines for Seniors," aimed at bringing joy and companionship to elderly individuals in nursing homes, assisted living centers, and long-term care facilities. The program invites students and community groups to create homemade cards, notes, and drawings that will be distributed to seniors on or before Valentine's Day. Senator Chesney emphasizes the importance of combatting loneliness among the elderly, stating, "Loneliness can be a real issue for the elderly, so it’s nice to bring them some joy so they know we’re thinking of them."

In another event, Senator Chesney attended an award presentation at Allure of Pinecrest in Mt. Morris, honoring Maggie Sholes as a Long-Term Care Hero of the Month. Allure of Pinecrest is recognized for its excellent therapeutic, rehabilitative, and nursing services across 15 different locations.

On a different note, the migrant crisis continues to escalate in the new year. Over 28,000 noncitizens have been sent to Chicago from the U.S. border since August 2022. The crisis has now started to spill over from Chicago to surrounding communities, causing public outcry. In response to the recent arrival of 355 migrants at the Chicago Rockford International Airport, Senator Chesney expressed concern over the weak border policies of the Biden Administration and the sanctuary state designation made by Governor JB Pritzker and his Democrat allies. Senator Chesney states, "When Illinois Democrats roll out the welcome mat to illegal immigrants and asylum seekers by offering driver’s licenses, free healthcare, and housing assistance, it is no surprise that Illinois has become a destination for non-citizens crossing into this country from our southern border."

As the migrant crisis persists, Senator Chesney is worried about the financial impact on Illinois. The state has seen a significant increase in spending on programs dedicated to noncitizens since Governor Pritzker took office. The cost of providing free healthcare, driver's licenses, and housing assistance to undocumented immigrants has reached over half a billion dollars per year. Senator Chesney is reviewing Illinois' sanctuary state law and working on a legislative solution to protect the state's limited budget.

In other news, the deadline for Illinois residents to register their banned assault weapons and attachments has passed. The implementation of the state's assault weapon ban has been met with controversy and confusion. While the sale and purchase of certain firearms were immediately banned, residents who owned banned assault weapons and attachments purchased before the ban had until January 1, 2024, to register them with the Illinois State Police. According to the Illinois State Police, 29,357 people registered their assault weapons before the deadline.

Despite the registration deadline passing, several court cases challenging the constitutionality of the ban are ongoing, including two cases docketed with the United States Supreme Court. The controversy surrounding the ban continues to be a divisive issue in the state.

The Valentines for Seniors program and the recognition of a Long-Term Care Hero highlight Senator Chesney's commitment to serving the community and addressing important issues affecting Illinois. Meanwhile, the migrant crisis and the implementation of the assault weapon ban continue to be pressing concerns that require attention and action.

Click this link to access more information: https://senatorchesney.com/senator-chesney-launches-valentines-for-seniors-program-migrant-crisis-intenesifies/