McLean County Times

House Republicans in Illinois are demanding answers from the Department of Corrections regarding drug exposures affecting correctional workers. Several workers have been hospitalized or suffered adverse effects due to exposure to illicit drugs within state facilities. Representative Charlie Meier emphasized the need for these issues to be addressed during the confirmation hearing of Latoya Hughes, the newly appointed director of the Department of Corrections. "We need to know how these substances are getting into prisons and what the Department of Corrections is doing to stop them and to better protect those who work there," he stated.

In another legal development, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has appealed a federal judge's decision that overturned the state's 2023 gun ban law. The ruling by Judge Stephen McGlynn declared the law unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. The Attorney General's appeal seeks to maintain the law while awaiting further judicial review, potentially leading to a Supreme Court decision.

Meanwhile, Rep. Bunting's office continues its food and winter clothing drive until next Friday, collecting non-perishable foods and gently-used hats and gloves for local charities. Donations can be made at district offices in Dwight and Watseka.

Additionally, Rep. Bunting visited Alliance Polysacks in Watseka with other officials, including Senator Bennett and Mary Catherine from Congresswoman Robin Kelly’s office. Alliance Polysacks aims to produce 120 million bags annually and employ up to 75 people once fully operational.

The state's financial situation remains challenging with over $2.5 billion in unpaid bills reported by the Illinois Comptroller's office, an increase from last year's figures.