State Senator Andrew S. Chesney | Illinois General Assembly
State Senator Andrew S. Chesney | Illinois General Assembly
Illinois Governor Pritzker has announced plans to launch a new intake center and shelter site in Chicago to support the growing number of migrants arriving in the city. The move comes as Chicago has received nearly 30,000 individuals and families seeking asylum since August 2022. Governor Pritzker stated that the funds will be used to provide supplies, hotel rooms, and eventually a shelter at a former CVS in Little Village.
However, Senator Chesney criticized the Governor, arguing that he should not be surprised at the number of migrants being sent to Illinois. Chesney claimed that Pritzker spent years encouraging non-citizens to come to the state and is now trying to avoid responsibility for the problem he created.
In another development, several Illinois sheriffs have stated that they will not enforce the state's new gun restriction law, known as the "Protect Illinois Communities Act." The law bans the sale of certain firearms and imposes restrictions on other gun-related items. Senator Chesney opposed the law, stating that it is unconstitutional and turns law-abiding citizens into criminals. He also pointed out that nearly 30,000 gun owners have registered their banned weapons with the Illinois State Police.
Moving on, Senator Chesney is hosting a "Valentines for Seniors" card drive in his Freeport office. The program aims to collect valentines, poems, drawings, and other well-wishes to be distributed to local nursing homes, assisted living centers, and long-term care facilities in the 45th District. The cards can be dropped off at Senator Chesney's office between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
In other news, the racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has been postponed for six months. Madigan, who was indicted on charges of bribery and official misconduct, is accused of improper dealings with the state's largest utility, Commonwealth Edison (ComEd). Prosecutors have presented evidence showing how ComEd executives and lobbyists allegedly paid millions of dollars to Madigan and his associates in exchange for favorable treatment on legislation.
Lastly, Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Heidi Mueller as the new Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Mueller, who currently serves as Director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, will assume her new role on February 1. The appointment comes after a report revealed numerous issues within the troubled agency, including an increase in the number of children who died while under DCFS's radar.
Overall, these developments highlight the challenges and controversies facing Illinois in various areas, including immigration, gun control, criminal justice, and child welfare. As the state continues to grapple with these issues, it is crucial for government officials to prioritize the safety and well-being of its residents.
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