McLean County Times

Representative Bunting provided an update on recent legislative activities in Springfield. One of the bills discussed was House Bill 4848, which requires trucks carrying certain materials to have a working tailgate and cover to prevent spills on roadways. Regarding this bill, Representative Bunting stated, "I was glad to be able to vote in support of several good bills, including bills which will make our roadways safer."

Additionally, the House passed House Bill 4255, allowing tow trucks and emergency vehicles to use flashing green lights on roadsides. Representative Bunting expressed hope that this legislation would enhance the visibility of emergency vehicles and prevent tragedies like fatal traffic crashes. He mentioned, "These green lights are easier to see during daytime hours."

Moreover, the House approved legislation aimed at educating drivers about the law requiring motorists to move over and slow down when approaching vehicles with activated emergency lights. Representative Bunting highlighted, "If this bill becomes law it would require the Secretary of State to provide further information about the law to test-takers who miss the question on the exam."

In the realm of aiding victims of human trafficking, the House passed bills to expunge juvenile records for victims forced into criminal activities and to remove the statute of limitations on trafficking crimes against minors. These bills aim to empower victims and help in their recovery process. Representative Bunting mentioned, "Expunging or sealing these records helps the person put their life back together and recover from their abuse."

Furthermore, legislation was passed to prevent surprise changes to state retiree insurance, particularly for members of the state's Teachers Retirement System. Representative Bunting explained, "Changes like this pose significant problems for residents of rural areas like ours, where health care choices are already limited." The bill requires advanced notice of any coverage changes to prevent unexpected lapses in coverage.

Lastly, Representative Bunting addressed the significant backlog of unpaid bills in the state of Illinois, currently totaling over $900 million. He noted the daily fluctuations in this amount and highlighted the distinction between unpaid bills submitted for payment and the state's unfunded debts, such as pension liabilities exceeding $100 billion.

The discussed bills are now awaiting approval in the Illinois Senate before potentially becoming law.