McLean County Times

In an effort to combat human trafficking, the Illinois General Assembly has passed two bills aimed at protecting victims and prosecuting perpetrators. The move comes after Shared Hope International, an advocacy group working to prevent sex trafficking, gave Illinois a failing grade in 2023 for its efforts on this issue.

The state was evaluated on six different metrics concerning efforts to protect victims, support their recovery and prosecute abusers. However, Illinois only received two passing grades. In response, House Republicans have proposed seven pieces of legislation this year to enhance human trafficking protections and toughen penalties. Of these proposals, House Bill 5465 and House Bill 5467 have passed and are pending in the Senate.

House Bill 5465 allows a human trafficking victim to have their juvenile record sealed or expunged if the crimes were committed while they were being trafficked. House Bill 5467 removes the statute of limitations for a victim to press charges of trafficking. Other bills yet to be acted upon include legislation requiring those convicted of trafficking to register as a sex offender and another bill aiming to create a Human Trafficking Order of Protection.

In other legislative news, state agencies specializing in early childhood programs will be consolidated under the umbrella of the Illinois Department of Early Childhood through recently passed legislation. Programs currently within the Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Human Services and Illinois State Board of Education will transition into the new department over the next couple of years.

On financial matters, it was revealed that since October 7, Illinois has invested more than $30 million in Israel as part of its multi-billion dollar investment portfolio. Over the past four years, more than $85 million has been invested in Israel by Illinois alone. Other states such as Texas, New York, Florida and Indiana have also made significant investments in Israel.

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs informed legislators about these investments during a committee hearing a few weeks ago. He stated that Israel Bonds are a good investment for Illinois as they offer good returns and the country has never defaulted on a bond. Furthermore, he added that these bonds fund infrastructure projects in Israel.

The state also took time to honor fallen firefighters from throughout Illinois who have given their lives in the line of duty. Despite bad weather forcing the event indoors, state leaders, firefighters and members of the public gathered at the state’s Firefighter Memorial on the statehouse grounds for a solemn ceremony. The event also recognized Medal of Honor recipients, among them Firefighter/Paramedic William Perry of the Coal City Fire Protection District.

Lastly, it was reported that the total amount of unpaid bills submitted to the Illinois Comptroller for payment currently stands at $1,441,202,499. This figure changes daily and does not include unfunded debts like the state’s pension liability which is well over $100 billion.