Cunningham bill to track down illegal gun traffickers signed into law
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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham’s measure to give law enforcement stronger tools to track down the criminals bringing illegal guns into Illinois neighborhoods was signed into law.
“This will give the police the tools they need to track down illegal guns and the criminals that traffic them into our communities,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “Tracing guns used in crimes and sharing data across jurisdictions will help solve crimes and keep dangerous individuals off our streets.”
Under current law, firearm tracing is limited to specific scenarios. Cunningham’s measure broadens that scope by requiring firearm tracing in all cases where a gun is recovered at the scene of a crime, is used unlawfully or is believed to be associated with a crime. The new law also asks every law enforcement agency in Illinois to participate in the federal eTrace program, providing investigators with faster, more complete data on gun origins, trafficking patterns and crime links. This will ensure consistent reporting and firearm tracing across all counties, helping to close investigative loopholes and make communities safer statewide.
Read more: Cunningham bill to track down illegal gun traffickers signed into law
Illinois Secretary of State flagship building named in honor of Jesse White
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Legislation championed by State Senator Willie Preston becomes reality with ribbon cutting ceremony
CHICAGO – In a historic and heartfelt tribute, the Illinois Secretary of State’s flagship building has been officially named in honor of Jesse White, the longest-serving and most respected Secretary of State in Illinois and American history. The dedication ceremony and ribbon cutting took place today in Chicago, marking the culmination of legislation spearheaded by State Senator Willie Preston.
“It was my honor to carry this legislation through the Senate to ensure the legacy of Secretary Jesse White is forever etched in the fabric of Illinois,” said Preston. “His decades of service, unwavering integrity, and transformative leadership have shaped not only the Secretary of State’s office, but public service in this state and across the nation.”
Read more: Illinois Secretary of State flagship building named in honor of Jesse White
Halpin and Johnson honor Congressman Evans’ memory and legacy with highway dedication
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ROCK ISLAND – To honor the life and public service of former Congressman Lane Evans, State Senator Mike Halpin, alongside Representative Gregg Johnson, dedicated I-74 in the Quad Cities to his memory.
“Lane Evans was committed to this community and to this country,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “With this dedication, Illinois recognizes Evans’ service and accomplishments. Both as a mentor and a friend, Lane served as a great inspiration to me and showed what public service is all about: speaking your mind and fighting for folks in your community.”
Senate Joint Resolution 48 designates I-74 in the Quad Cities from 4th Avenue to I-280 as the “Rep. Lane Evans Memorial Highway.” This designation pays honor and respect to former Congressman Evans’ service to his country.
Read more: Halpin and Johnson honor Congressman Evans’ memory and legacy with highway dedication
Castro encourages organizations to apply for Illinois Pre-Apprenticeship Program
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ELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro is urging community organizations, educational institutions, and industry groups to apply for grants from the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program to enhance workforce training and economic growth in Illinois communities.
“I’m thrilled to see the continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The funding provided through this program is critical to increasing career opportunities for Illinoisans and building up our state’s world-class workforce.”
This latest round of funding provides $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.
Read more: Castro encourages organizations to apply for Illinois Pre-Apprenticeship Program
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