Schmidt’s Spotlight: the SAFE-T Act is Not Working

The Verdict Is In: SAFE-T Act Is Not Working Two Years Later.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the SAFE-T Act into law in February 2021, supporters claimed it would modernize Illinois' criminal justice system and make incarceration practices more "fair." The law was rushed through during a lame-duck session and made sweeping changes, putting criminals over victims, imposing unfunded mandates on police officers and counties, and eliminating cash bail.

Two years after the no-cash bail system fully took effect in September 2023, Illinoisans continue to suffer the consequences while criminals walk free. Courts are overwhelmed, police are operating with fewer tools and more unreasonable mandates, all while repeat offenders are cycling in and out of custody. Families are left questioning whether the system is still on their side. Instead of fairness, the law has produced confusion and risk.

The warnings from law enforcement and House Republicans are now reflected In the news:

• "Accused killer walks free under Illinois SAFE-T Act" - WIFR

• "Police chiefs warn criminals are emboldened after bail reform" - Daily Herald

• "Counties face mounting costs, confusion with SAFE-T Act mandates" - Capitol News Illinois

• "Repeat offender charged with burglary days after release" - Chicago Tribune

• "Victims' families outraged after suspects released under new law" - ABC7 Chicago

These headlines, just a snapshot of the past two years, underscore what communities across the state already know: the SAFE-T Act is not working.

State Rep. Kevin Schmidt supports legislation (HB1479, HB 1482, and HB 1483) that that would restore the ability of judges to revoke pretrial release, expand the list of detainable offenses, and issue warrants for defendants who refuse to comply with release conditions. These are targeted changes designed to close gaps that criminals are exploiting daily.

Schmidt Visits Lebanon Public Library

I made a visit to the new Lebanon Public Library to donate "The Goard Book" published by Catherine Donelle Gress, owner of Minerva Boutique in Lebanon. This library offers an array of fun activities for kids and partners with over 300 other libraries in southern Illinois!

Military License Plates Are Available to Illinois Veterans

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"Business of the Month" Minerva Boutique in Lebanon

Catherine Donelle Gress, owner of Minerva Boutique in Lebanon, was presented with an official certificate of recognition for sharing her vision and boutique style apparel with the Lebanon community!

Rep. Schmidt encourages individuals or organizations to nominate their favorite business in the 114th District to be recognized as the Business of the Month. Rep. Schmidt will recognize the small business on his social media, website, and with local media. Submit this form to nominate a local business!

Illinois Governor Jim Edgar

Illinois has lost a great statesman with the passing of former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar. Even after his time in office, Governor Edgar continued to advocate for better government in Illinois.

He has inspired generations of Illinois leaders through the Edgar Fellows program where he encouraged respectful open dialogue and collaboration. Our hearts go out to his family and to all who knew and admired him.

October Mobile Office Hours

State Representative Kevin Schmidt will be hosting his Mobile Office Hours Events in October and he wants you to join! This is a great opportunity to discuss state legislature and what you would like to see from legislators in Illinois.

National Family Day

National Family Day celebrates the relationships that give our lives meaning. It encourages us to slow down and be present with those we love. Families offer critical support throughout life, and today is the perfect time to honor and deepen those connections.

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