McLean County Times

Illinois ended cash bail last year following the passage and implementation of the SAFE-T Act. Since then, numerous reports have highlighted negative impacts stemming from this policy change. A northwestern Illinois sheriff recently shared a different perspective on the issue, emphasizing its potential life-threatening consequences.

Sheriff John Booker of Whiteside County discussed with a Quad Cities TV station how suspects with substance abuse problems are being released before receiving necessary drug treatment. “Possession of methamphetamines, say for instance, that isn’t a detainable offense. So what are we doing for these people that have a serious addiction to methamphetamine?” Booker questioned. He noted that previously, individuals received treatment while in jail, but now many return to the streets and resume drug use almost immediately.

“Just send them back out in the street—that isn’t helping anybody,” he stated. “We’re unfortunately in a sad situation. We’re getting a lot of overdoses. People are dying.”

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 65% of jail inmates have a substance abuse disorder and that 20% were under the influence when they committed their crime.

In other news, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has announced plans for a new digital licensure process aimed at addressing delays affecting many professionals in obtaining or renewing their licenses. The new system promises improved communication and streamlined review processes. Applicants will receive electronic notifications regarding their application status and license issuance.

The first professional licenses expected to be available online include those for Licensed Social Workers (LSWs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs). Further details can be found on the agency’s website at idfpr.illinois.gov.

Additionally, the office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal is accepting applications for the Small Equipment Grant Program, which provides grants up to $26,000 for small firefighting and ambulance equipment purchases. Applications must be submitted electronically or postmarked by October 1.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office will host online "office hours" to assist departments with their applications.

For further assistance or support letters, contact Rep. Bunting's office via email at bunting@ilhousegop.org or by phone at (779) 218-3070.

In financial matters, Illinois currently has an unpaid bill backlog totaling $1,798,809,697 as processed by the Illinois Comptroller's office. This figure does not account for unfunded debts such as pension liabilities exceeding $100 billion.