SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to reduce crime in Illinois, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) backed the Crime Reduction Task Force Act which works to establish recommendations to the General Assembly to better address the equity needs of local communities.

“Ensuring safety and security for all of Illinois’ residents is undoubtedly the highest obligation of government,” said Johnson. “This legislation looks to lean on not only law enforcement for the best approach, but seeks community and expert input as well.”

House Bill 4736 would create the Crime Reduction Task Force comprised of a bipartisan group including legislators, law enforcement, and legal and criminal justice professionals, as well as crime victims and witnesses. The task force would develop a plan of action to reduce crime across the state and report its findings to the General Assembly and the governor.

Additionally, the legislation would create a statewide anonymous tip hotline, a Violent Crime Witness Protection fund and Co-Responder Pilot Program for the police departments of East St. Louis, Peoria, Springfield and Waukegan.

“True public safety can be achieved if we properly collaborate with law enforcement and the community,” Johnson said. “We want to encourage individuals who witness crimes to feel safe when filing reports, but we must be sure to not put anyone’s safety in jeopardy.”

House Bill 4736 passed with bipartisan support and awaits the governor’s signature for final approval.