Republicans Push for Fairness in High School Sports with Letter to IHSA

SPRINGFIELD – State Republican lawmakers sent a letter to the Executive Director of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) during the week, urging the organization to clarify its policies regarding transgender athletes in high school sports and ensure fairness for women who have worked tirelessly to compete.

Signed by members of both the Illinois Senate and House Republican Caucuses, the letter calls on the IHSA to align its policies with recent federal guidelines that protect the integrity of women’s sports. The lawmakers emphasized that federal law clearly mandates that participation in women’s sports should be based on biological sex, in order to preserve fairness and competitive balance.

In their letter, lawmakers requested an update on how the IHSA plans to revise its policies to comply with federal requirements while ensuring a level playing field for women in sports. They are standing up for the women who dedicate themselves to training, sacrificing, and competing, ensuring they are judged on their skill.

Republican lawmakers are committed to protecting the opportunities that women athletes have worked so hard to earn. The message is clear: they are demanding transparency, accountability, and a commitment to maintaining fairness in Illinois sports.

Homeschool Families Pack Illinois Capitol to Defend Education Freedom

Thousands of homeschooling families packed the Illinois State Capitol this week to protest House Bill 2827, which advanced out of the Education Policy Committee on an 8-4 vote with all House Republicans voting against it.

Known as the “Homeschool Act,” House Bill 2827 would impose new regulations on homeschooling families, including mandatory forms, educational portfolios, and potential criminal penalties for non-compliance.

The bill has sparked widespread concern among parents who view it as a direct attack on their rights to educate their children without government interference. Opponents argue that it would undermine parental control and open the door for further restrictions on homeschooling.

According to State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy), the bill threatens to undermine the freedoms of parents who choose homeschooling, with many concerned it marks the beginning of broader government intrusion into private education.

Balkema and Rose Push Back Against Governor’s Proposal to Eliminate Townships

Senators Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) and Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) held a press conference this week to voice their opposition to Governor JB Pritzker’s proposal to eliminate Illinois townships, through a state-mandated, one-size-fits-all approach. The Senators warned that the Governor’s plan could lead to higher property taxes and reduce critical local services across the state.

The Governor’s proposal calls for consolidating townships, in many cases handing over their responsibilities, assets, and debts to county governments, which could result in increased financial burdens for counties already managing multiple services. The Senators noted that they have repeatedly supported efforts to consolidate unnecessary forms of government, in communities where it makes sense. They argued, however, that the Governor’s top-down approach would likely translate into higher property taxes for Illinois families in many areas.

They emphasized that decisions about government consolidation should be made locally, not imposed from Springfield. While consolidation may work in some areas, it is vital that local communities have the ability to determine what structure best meets their needs.

In response to the Governor’s proposal, Senator Balkema introduced Senate Bill 1347, which would make it easier for communities to launch their own consolidation referendums. Senate Bill 1347 offers a more localized, transparent process that ensures consolidation only happens when it truly benefits taxpayers and preserves essential services.

By allowing communities to make their own decisions, Senate Bill 1347 aims to protect Illinois residents from unnecessary tax hikes and service reductions, while still promoting government efficiency where possible.

Illinois Takes Bold Step with Bipartisan Senate Bill to Combat Human Trafficking

A new bipartisan proposal seeks to improve Illinois’ response to human trafficking by streamlining support services and enhancing coordination among state agencies. Senate Bill 2323 takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach, designed to better identify, assist, and protect trafficking victims across the state.

Based on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group, formed in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders, the bill proposes a strategic plan to build a comprehensive network of services for survivors. This includes the creation of standards of care for medical and legal service providers.

Key provisions of Senate Bill 2323 include:

• Coordinated Services for Victims: The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will lead prevention efforts, provide resources for staff, and coordinate services for youth in care who have been victims of human trafficking or are at high risk of being trafficked.
• Expanded Training for Key Agencies: The bill requires expanded training for staff in DCFS, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Juvenile Justice, and the Department of Corrections to better identify and assist victims, especially youth in state care. It also aims to improve screening processes for at-risk populations in the justice system.
• Multidisciplinary Task Forces: Senate Bill 2323 will create multidisciplinary law enforcement task forces to coordinate investigations and responses across jurisdictions, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of human trafficking cases.
• Extended Legal Rights for Survivors: The bill removes the 25-year time limit for victims to bring lawsuits against their abusers, ensuring that survivors trafficked as minors can seek justice at any stage of their healing process.

Senate Bill 2323 passed the Senate Criminal Law Committee on March 18.

Restoring History: $8 Million Boost for New Salem Historic Site

The New Salem State Historic Site will receive $8 million in funding for essential repairs to its historic buildings. This funding, announced on March 19, is the result of efforts by State Senator Steve McClure, Representative Wayne Rosenthal, and the Lincoln League volunteer organization to address the site’s deteriorating condition.

The funding will be used to repair up to 23 log buildings and update the outdoor theater. This announcement follows recent press conferences and media tours that highlighted the site’s urgent infrastructure needs, including collapsed roofs, structural damage, and a failing pedestrian walkway.

In addition to the immediate funding, McClure and Rosenthal are advancing legislative efforts to ensure the long-term preservation of the site. Proposed bills include the creation of the New Salem Preservation Commission, additional funding for improvements, and expedited repair processes.

The New Salem State Historic Site, located near Springfield, is a vital historical landmark where Abraham Lincoln spent his early adult years.