Democrats Seek to Ease Restrictions on Sex Offenders
SPRINGFIELD – In yet another display of their misplaced priorities, Democrat lawmakers have introduced a bill that would allow convicted sex offenders to live closer to schools, playground, and childcare facilities.
Currently, registered offenders cannot live within 500 feet of these types of facilities. However, Senate Bill 2254 would reduce the distance by half, allowing offenders to live within 250 feet of these facilities.
Additionally, the legislation would lower penalties for violations of the sex offender, arsonist, and violent offender registries from felonies to misdemeanors, and shortens the registration period for the Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Registry from 10 years to 5 years. The measure also requires law enforcement to waive registration fees for indigent offenders.
Rather than seeking to reduce safeguards put in place to protect children, Senate Republicans argue that more should be done to hold those who abuse accountable for their crimes. This includes legislation (Senate Bill 284) that closes dangerous loopholes that have allowed offenders to escape full accountability by prohibiting plea deals for individuals charged with grooming, trafficking in persons, or involuntary sexual servitude of a minor while also imposing stricter restrictions on convicted offenders. The proposal also expands restrictions on where convicted child sex offenders can work, volunteer, or be present, barring them from facilities that cater specifically to minors.
Illinois Senate Moves to Honor Route 66’s Historic Legacy in 2026
With the 100-year anniversary of the historic Illinois Route 66 fast approaching, the Senate recently adopted a resolution that declares 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year.
Senate Joint Resolution 12 highlights Illinois’ key role in Route 66 history, as the first state to fully pave the highway and the location of its starting point.
State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) says Route 66 is more than just a road, it is a symbol of American freedom and exploration and rightfully deserves recognition.
The resolution now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
Capture the Heart of Illinois Agriculture in the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest!
The Illinois Treasurer’s Office is launching the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest, inviting students ages 8-18 to submit photos that best represent Illinois agriculture.
Entries are accepted until June 13. Each student may submit up to two photos electronically at https://illinoistreasurer.gov/Invest_in_Illinois/Ag_Invest/Cream_of_the_Crop_Photo_Contest.
The contest features three age categories:
- Ages 8-10
- Ages 11-14
- Ages 15-18
Prizes include Bright Start scholarships of $1,000, $500, and $250 for the top three winners in each category.