SPRINGFIELD – In response to the murder of Sonya Massey, State Senator Doris Turner is leading two measures that advanced out of the Senate Executive Committee Thursday.

“Sonya’s tragic murder brought to light the unjust hiring practices within the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The legislative measures come from conversations with state and county officials, law enforcement and community members. We have to take the necessary steps to ensure this never happens again.”

Senate Bill 1953 would require law enforcement agencies to conduct a more comprehensive review of a prospective officer’s past employment to ensure his or her physical and psychological fitness for duty as a police officer before making an offer of employment. To ensure the highest degree of integrity and professionalism in the hiring process of sheriff’s deputies and other personnel, the legislation would expand the creation of sheriff’s merit boards and sheriff’s merit commissions for counties with a population of at least 75,000.

Additionally, Turner is leading Senate Bill 1954 that would allow a county board to place a referendum creating a recall process on the ballot for the 2026 General Election. If a majority of voters approve the referendum, then the county will adopt a recall process for countywide elected officials. To recall a countywide elected official, electors of the county must submit petitions containing signatures equal to at least 15% of the total votes cast for governor in the preceding election.

“Our community needs to have trust in those who are elected to serve,” said Turner. “My hope is that these measures will honor Sonya’s life by showing our commitment to enhancing that trust.”

Senate Bill 1953 and Senate Bill 1954 passed the Senate Executive Committee and now head to the full Senate.