NW Illinois News

The Illinois General Assembly began its 2024 regular session on January 16, with lawmakers engaging in meetings with constituents and drafting legislation. However, just before the Senate convened, State Senator Andrew Chesney and three Republican colleagues held a press conference to address the ongoing migrant crisis in Illinois.

During the press conference, Chesney, along with State Senator Dave Syverson, Assistant House Republican Leader John M. Cabello, and State Representative Joe Sosnowski, discussed the impact of weak border policies by the Biden Administration and state laws that incentivize undocumented individuals to come to Illinois. Chesney stated, "The influx of migrants and illegal immigrants into Illinois is a direct consequence of weak border policies by the Biden Administration and laws passed in Illinois in recent years that act as incentives to lure undocumented people to this state."

In response to the lack of leadership at the federal and state levels, the Republicans announced their intention to lead on the issue by proposing a bill package. The proposed legislation aims to eliminate incentives that attract migrants and illegal immigrants to Illinois. The package includes measures such as rescinding the TRUST Act, eliminating free healthcare for non-citizens, and providing free transportation out of Illinois for migrants already in the state.

Chesney emphasized, "Our legislation seeks to eliminate incentives that draw migrants and illegal immigrants to Illinois." The bill package is currently being finalized and will be filed before the February 9 deadline for the introduction of bills.

In addition to addressing the migrant crisis, Chesney also shared information about his "Valentines for Seniors" card drive. He invited individuals to drop off valentines, poems, drawings, and other well-wishes at his office in Freeport. The collected items will be distributed to local nursing homes, assisted living centers, and long-term care facilities in the 45th District. Chesney expressed his hope that these special deliveries would bring smiles to seniors' faces.

Furthermore, Chesney and the entire Illinois Senate Republican Caucus called on Governor Pritzker to reverse proposed cuts to funding for programs that assist the developmentally disabled community. Chesney criticized the Governor for proposing cuts to vulnerable citizens while allocating significant funds for immigrant services.

In other legislative news, the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) met to discuss new permanent rules for the state's "assault weapons" ban proposed by the Illinois State Police (ISP). Concerns were raised about the potential confusion caused by the rules, with critics arguing that they are too vague and could leave gun owners struggling to understand which firearms, parts, and attachments are illegal or require registration.

Republican members of JCAR filed a motion to prohibit the new permanent rules from being implemented, but the motion failed on a party-line vote. However, the Republican members were successful in filing a motion to object to the rules. ISP must respond in writing to the Committee's objection before the regulations can be adopted.

Chesney, who voted against the "assault weapons" ban in Illinois due to constitutional concerns, expressed his belief that the law will ultimately be overturned as court cases are still pending.

On a lighter note, Chesney recently toured the Top Die Casting Company in South Beloit. He expressed gratitude to the company's COO Brad Lindmark, Plant Manager Keith McDonald, and co-owner David McCurdy for the tour and conversation. Chesney highlighted the important role manufacturers play in driving the Illinois economy and commended Top Die Casting for being a financially sound, family-owned business since 1977.

As the 2024 legislative session gets underway, Senator Andrew Chesney and his Republican colleagues are focused on addressing the migrant crisis, advocating for the developmentally disabled community, and scrutinizing new rules regarding the state's "assault weapons" ban.