SPRINGFIELD – Throughout American history, only 32 individuals have lain in state in the rotunda of the United States Capitol, an honor reserved for the most esteemed American military heroes and statesmen. State Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill) wants to extend that privilege to the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II as a tribute to all 16 million Americans, often referred to as the “Greatest Generation,” who served in our Armed Forces from 1939 to 1945.

Senate Joint Resolution 50 would urge the President and the United States Congress to take all necessary measures to ensure the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II be offered a state funeral, including, but not limited to, the option to lie in state in the rotunda of the United States Capitol.

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to provide more transparency among elected officials, State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) filed a measure that would require lawmakers to state if they have a conflict of interest on a bill.

“This is simply about honesty and transparency,” Senator Morrison said. “The people of Illinois deserve to know lawmakers are best serving voters and the community — not themselves.”

Senate Bill 2299, which will be read into the record Tuesday, would require a member of the General Assembly to disclose if they have a conflict of interest on a measure they are taking official action on – which includes voting for a bill. If the legislator does have a conflict of interest, they would be responsible for filing a written statement declaring the conflict or stating their conflict during floor debate.

SPRINGFIELD – Jurors in Lake County will continue to have the option to donate their compensation to the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC), under a bill co-sponsored by State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake).

A pilot program that currently allows Lake County jurors to donate their wages to the CAC is set to expire at the end of the year. The CAC has requested the program be extended until Jan. 1, 2022, because it has increased revenue and public awareness of children’s advocacy issues. In 2019, jurors contributed nearly $1000 to the Children’s Advocacy Center.

“The Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center helps child abuse victims find their voice and brings offenders to justice,” said Bush. “We should continue to aid their efforts by allowing jurors the option to donate their compensation.”

SPRINGFIELD – Two youths, ages 15 and 17, were handcuffed and shackled at their feet while being driven from a youth shelter to another living arrangement, according to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The teens were both restrained for nearly 30 miles in early October while being moved by a company hired by DCFS from Chicago to Palatine. The incident is now being investigated.

State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Deerfield) released the following statement:

“When we dishonor one person’s rights, we dishonor everyone’s rights,” Senator Morrison said. “DCFS’s failure to provide oversight and accountability on their contractors has caused another violation. This situation underscores my commitment to reform this troubled agency.”

SPRINGFIELD – November 11 is observed in the United States as Veterans Day to honor those who have served in the armed forces.

The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus proudly includes a number of members who served in the military: President John Cullerton (D-Chicago), National Guard; Sen. Tony Munoz (D-Chicago), Army; Sen. Mike Hastings (D-Tinley Park), Army; and Sen. Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park), Army.

Ahead of the holiday, senators took a few moments on the Senate floor to thank their fellow veterans and reflect on their own experiences while serving.

JOLIET – State Senator Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (D-Shorewood) is excited to announce the Joliet Fire Department is receiving $200,000 from the state loan program for new equipment.

“Our fire departments work tirelessly to keep our communities safe,” Bertino-Tarrant said. “The state has a responsibility to help our fire departments obtain vital equipment to keep residents and emergency service personnel as safe as possible.”

The Ambulance Revolving Loan is designed to assist departments or cities in purchasing emergency equipment they may not be able to otherwise afford. It is administered by the Illinois State Fire Marshal and Illinois Finance Authority.

THOMASBORO – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Thursday that the Thomasboro Fire Protection District is one of 23 communities to receive funds to purchase fire trucks that will allow first responders to better serve the area.

“Fire departments consistently face financial burdens,” Bennett said. “This funding will allow the fire district to purchase the equipment they need, while also reducing the cost to local taxpayers.”

The Thomasboro Fire Protection District, a volunteer department, is the recipient of $300,000, which has given it the opportunity to purchase new equipment it may not otherwise have been able to afford.

MAYWOOD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) visited the West 40’s Proviso Alternative Learning Opportunity Programs (ALOPs) last week. West 40 works with local schools to provide learning opportunities to students in need of extra support.

“The students participating in these programs are incredible, and I am so humbled to have the opportunity to listen to their stories,” Lightford said. “Programs like these change the lives of our children every day, and I applaud the work West 40 and local Proviso schools do for our community.”

West 40 runs five ALOPs serving Proviso Township named HOPE, DREAM, PEACE, Seniors Plus, and the Truants Alternative and Optional Education Program.