NW Illinois News

A free museum pass is now available for residents in the 89th District, offering an opportunity to visit Chicago museums during the Easter break and beyond. The pass, distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis, can be requested online. Constituents are advised to contact museums ahead of their visit to check if pre-registration is necessary.

State Representative Patrick Windhorst has reiterated his support for crime victims by opposing a legislative proposal that sought parole and resentencing opportunities for convicted murderers and rapists under the age of 21. Windhorst highlighted an existing youthful offender program providing parole options, arguing the new bill would unfairly impact crime victims. "Justice should never come at the expense of victims," he stated, emphasizing support for existing Illinois laws. The bill failed to pass. Windhorst also helms the House Republican Truth in Public Safety Working Group, which recently introduced initiatives to aid crime victims and support law enforcement.

Legislation led by Illinois Representative McCombie, aimed at protecting sexual assault victims, successfully passed the House. The measure prohibits co-pays for sexual assault exams to ease the financial burden on victims. After securing bipartisan support, the bill now heads to the Senate. McCombie commented, "This bill gives victims an added protection of knowing they will not be overburdened when they receive care."

Efforts to advance the Homeschool Act, which proposed increased mandates for homeschooling families, halted following public opposition. Republican State Rep. Amy Elik expressed relief, stating, "This is a big WIN for the Homeschool families, but the fight is not over!" Elik thanked the community for its engagement and emphasized the importance of ongoing vigilance.

A fair maps lawsuit filed by House Minority Leader McCombie was not taken up by the Illinois Supreme Court, sparking criticism from McCombie and Deputy Leader Ryan Spain. McCombie remarked, "Today is a shameful day in Illinois history," criticizing the court for allegedly aiding in maintaining partisan maps. Spain echoed these sentiments, citing past decisions and urging for ethics reform in the court system.

House Republicans have criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker's handling of several Illinois agencies amid reports of mismanagement and abuse. An investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice into State-Operated Developmental Centers is underway. Representatives Charlie Meier, Jeff Keicher, Patrick Sheehan, and Brad Fritts called on the Governor for reforms. "Our caucus is fighting every single day to shine a light on the mismanagement," stated McCombie, urging accountability from the state government.

New legislation introduced by McCombie to combat Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Illinois' deer population passed the House with unanimous support. House Bills 2339 and 2340 propose changes to sharpshooting programs and landowner permits, respectively. These bills now proceed to the Senate for further evaluation.

Residents in Illinois' 89th District are encouraged to participate in recognizing local businesses through an online nomination form, honoring community contributions.

Finally, local residents are reminded of National Prescription Take Back Day, an event crafted to allow safe and secure disposal of medications.