Simmons moves bill to protect young survivors of human trafficking being tried as adults

SPRINGFIELD – To prevent minors who are survivors of human trafficking, or other factors such as sexual abuse, from being tried as adults in certain criminal cases, State Senator Mike Simmons advanced a House bill out of the Senate Special Committee on Criminal Law and Public Safety on Wednesday.

“Survivors of child trafficking and abuse have endured unimaginable trauma and pain, and they should not be tried as adult criminals when they are simply trying to defend themselves and escape their abusers,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Survivors deserve our support and compassion, and a system that protects - not punishes them.”

House Bill 3414 was inspired by Sara Kruzan, a survivor of child sex trafficking who was sentenced to life in prison when she was only 17 years old. She was eventually released and pardoned, however this legislation seeks to protect future survivors from a similar fate.

Read more: Simmons moves bill to protect young survivors of human trafficking being tried as adults

Joyce-backed measure advances, allowing three-year hunting, fishing and trapping license

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patrick Joyce passed a measure out of committee today that would allow for an easier way to obtain a hunting, fishing, trapping and sportsmen license.

“We are working to provide a practical solution for avid hunters, anglers and trappers in the state,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “It’s a win-win for everyone — making it easier for people to enjoy these hobbies while supporting our state’s conservation efforts.”

House Bill 3677 would allow Illinois residents to obtain a three-year fishing, hunting, sportsmen’s combination or trapping license at three times the cost of an annual one.

Read more: Joyce-backed measure advances, allowing three-year hunting, fishing and trapping license

Loughran Cappel supports pets for vets

SPRINGFIELD – Veterans deserve companionship – that’s why State Senator Loughran Cappel passed a measure out of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Thursday that would waive fees for veterans adopting dogs or cats.

“There is a special bond people share with their animals,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “For our veterans, this bond can help their health and happiness.”

Across the state, pet adoption fees vary widely depending on the organization, ranging from $50 to $275. Loughran Cappel’s measure would require animal shelters and animal control facilities to waive the adoption fee for military veterans in Illinois.

Read more: Loughran Cappel supports pets for vets

Cunningham advances measure for Chicago police and fire COVID disability benefits

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham advanced legislation that presumes that Chicago police and firefighters who became disabled as a result of COVID-19 from March 9, 2020 to June 30, 2021, contracted COVID-19 while on the job.

"Let’s right the wrongs that have been done to those who put their lives on the line for the people of Chicago," said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. "As we’ve learned, this legislation is just the right thing to do for the emergency first responder community and I look forward to passing it through the Senate."

Read more: Cunningham advances measure for Chicago police and fire COVID disability benefits