Kane County Reporter

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced the launch of a new intake center and shelter site in Chicago to support the influx of migrants arriving in the city. The decision comes as Chicago has received nearly 30,000 individuals and families seeking asylum since August 2022. The funds allocated by the Governor will be used to provide supplies, hotel rooms, and eventually establish a shelter at a former CVS in Little Village.

However, the Governor's decision has faced criticism. Senator Don DeWitte argues that Governor Pritzker should not be surprised by the number of migrants being sent to Illinois, as he spent years encouraging non-citizens to come to the state. DeWitte believes that the Governor is now trying to avoid responsibility for the problem he created.

In other legislative news, several Illinois sheriffs have stated that they will not enforce the state's new gun restriction, known as the "Protect Illinois Communities Act." The act bans the sale of certain firearms, as well as some pistols, large-capacity magazines, and certain gun parts. Those who possessed these items before the law was signed were allowed to keep them if they registered them before January 1, 2024. The Illinois State Police opened a registration portal in October for gun owners to comply with the new law.

Senator DeWitte opposed the new law, believing it to be unconstitutional and turning law-abiding citizens into criminals. He highlights that nearly 30,000 individuals registered a banned weapon with the Illinois State Police. Under the new law, failing to register a banned weapon can result in a misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the offense.

Switching gears, Senator DeWitte is also hosting a "Valentines for Seniors" Card Drive. The program aims to collect valentines, poems, drawings, and other well-wishes to be distributed to local nursing homes, assisted living centers, and long-term care facilities in the 33rd District. Valentines can be dropped off at Senator DeWitte's West Dundee and St. Charles offices or mailed to the offices.

Finally, the racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has been postponed for six months pending a Supreme Court decision in a bribery case. Madigan was indicted on 23 counts of racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct in March 2022. The charges stem from alleged improper dealings with Commonwealth Edison. Madigan served as Speaker of the Illinois House from 1983 to 1995 and then again from 1997 to 2021.

In addition, Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Heidi Mueller as the new Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Mueller, currently the Director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, will assume the role on February 1. The appointment comes after a report revealed issues within the troubled agency, including an increase in the number of children dying while under the radar of DCFS.

Overall, these recent developments highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the state of Illinois in various areas, from immigration to gun control and child welfare.