Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema has provided updates on legislative efforts and resources aimed at supporting families, protecting privacy, and increasing access to grants across Illinois.
Balkema announced that Senate Republicans have introduced a set of bills intended to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence. The legislation responds to an increase in domestic violence-related deaths in the state. According to the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, such deaths rose by 140% from 2022 to 2024.
The proposed measures include Senate Bill 3139, which would require suspects in serious domestic violence cases to prove they do not pose a real and present danger before being released. This aims to create a period during which victims can seek help. Senate Bill 3140 would make violations of orders of protection felony offenses, with increased penalties for repeat offenders. Other proposals include establishing minimum holding times for repeat violations (Senate Bill 3141) and requiring courts to consider prior convictions when sentencing (Senate Bill 3142).
“Orders of protection should mean real safety for victims, not repeated fear and uncertainty. These proposals are about giving victims, law enforcement, and courts the tools needed to intervene early and prevent further violence,” Balkema said.
Balkema also shared an Illinois Energy Facts & Data presentation designed to inform residents about the state’s energy system history and explain rising electricity rates. He emphasized that as demand increases, reliability and affordability must remain priorities for both families and businesses.
Additionally, Balkema filed Senate Bill 3281 to address privacy concerns related to drones. The bill would make it illegal for drones to fly over private property without consent or share recordings taken in this manner. Violators could face a Class A misdemeanor if the bill passes committee review.
Several grant opportunities were highlighted:
– Historical Records Preservation Grants: $500–$5,000 available for organizations like archives and museums seeking support for digitization projects.
– Local Food Infrastructure Grants: $3.6 million available through the Illinois Department of Agriculture starting February 18, offering up to $250,000 for collaborative projects moving local food from farms to consumers.
– Innovation Voucher Program: An additional $2.6 million is available on a rolling basis for small businesses partnering with Illinois universities on research initiatives.
Balkema was elected as a Republican senator representing Illinois’ 53rd District in 2025, succeeding Thomas M. Bennett (https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=103&MemberID=3227).
He also noted his recent meeting at the Capitol with Grundy County Coroner John Callahan alongside State Senator Sue Rezin.
Balkema encouraged constituents needing assistance or information about these topics or programs to contact his office directly.
