Controversial Prisoner Review Board Legislation Signed into Law
Illinois Republicans are pushing back against newly signed legislation that they say weakens oversight of the Prisoner Review Board (PRB) and puts public safety at risk.
Senate Bill 19, signed recently by Gov. Pritzker, makes sweeping changes to the Illinois’ PRB including extending member terms from six to eight years. Republicans warn this move shields gubernatorial appointees from accountability at a time when the PRB should be facing more thorough vetting.
The Prisoner Review Board is responsible for determining whether specific individuals, often found guilty of serious offenses, should be granted release. During Governor Pritzker’s administration, the board approved a significantly higher number of releases compared to previous governors, including in several notable cases involving convicted murderers.
Just last year, a parolee released by the board stabbed his ex-girlfriend killed and killed an 11-year-old boy less than 24 hours after his release, an incident that sparked outrage from Republican lawmakers who had repeatedly tried to warn about issues with the board.
State Senator Terri Bryant says SB 19 makes it more difficult for the PRB to keep violent criminals off the streets and shields PRB members from being held accountable by the Senate.
The law takes effect immediately.
Governor Pritzker Announces Intent to Seek Third Term
Last week, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced that he intends to run for a third term in office. Illinois does not place term limits on governors, and Pritzker will be the first to pursue a third term since the 1980s.
First elected in 2018, Pritzker has served as governor since 2019. Since that time, state spending has increased by nearly $15 billion, marking an approximate 40 percent rise over six years. Under Governor Pritzker’s watch, Illinois currently has one of the highest tax burdens in the nation, one of the highest rates of unemployment in the Midwest and he has directed billions of dollars in funding for illegal immigrants.
IDNR, Fire Marshal Urge Fireworks Safety Ahead of July 4th
With the Fourth of July fast approaching, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the State Fire Marshal’s office are reminding Illinoisans to prioritize fireworks safety and follow state regulations.
Licensed professionals are the only ones authorized to handle display fireworks under the Illinois Explosives Act. The IDNR oversees licensing and storage certification for these explosives, while the Office of the State Fire Marshal regulates approved consumer fireworks that are only allowed in communities that permit them by ordinance.
Officials stressed the dangers associated with fireworks, citing 156 injuries and one death during the most recent reporting period. Mortars, roman candles, bottle rockets, and sparklers accounted for the majority of injuries.
Residents are encouraged to attend licensed public displays rather than attempt their own.
For emergencies or to report violations, contact IDNR at 217-782-9976 or OSFM at 217-785-0969.
Find Your Senator This Summer: Events Around the District
With the spring legislative session now adjourned, members of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus are returning to their communities to meet directly with constituents and hear their concerns during a series of summer outreach events.
Throughout the summer months, Senate Republicans will be hosting town halls, community visits, and issue-focused forums in districts across Illinois. These events provide opportunities for families, small businesses, and local leaders to speak directly with their elected officials.
Senators will use these events to share updates from the spring session, gather feedback, and continue fighting for the issues that matter most to their constituents, including tax relief, public safety, education accountability, and government transparency.
Illinoisans are encouraged to attend events in their area and connect with their local Republican senator to share ideas, voice concerns, and stay engaged in the legislative process.
You can view upcoming events here.