Sims on Grayson sentencing: Vital step toward justice, accountability

State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Sonya Massey:

“While nothing can repair the pain Sonya’s loved ones have endured, this sentencing is a vital step toward the accountability the Massey family deserves. Without key evidence from body camera footage, this step toward justice might have been lost – highlighting the important work still to be done to repair trust and transparency in the criminal justice system.

“My heart is with Sonya’s family, friends and the entire Springfield community. The reality is the unjust use of force against Black lives is a serious and ongoing issue. May we continue to fight for justice and accountability until Sonya’s legacy is a world where calling for help from those sworn to protect and serve never brings fear, only safety.” 

Sims: Clean Slate Act creates fresh starts

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. championed a transformative criminal justice reform that balances opportunities for redemption with essential public safety measures – known as the Clean Slate Act.

"We're creating real opportunities for people who've earned the right to move forward," said Sims (D-Chicago). "By making record sealing automatic for those who qualify, we're getting rid of the red tape that stops people from getting jobs, finding homes and becoming full members of their communities again.”

The Clean Slate Act – found within House Bill 1836 – automates the sealing of criminal records that are already eligible under current law, removing the need for individuals to navigate a complex petition process. Non-conviction records will be automatically sealed, but serious crimes like murder, sex offenses, human trafficking, Class X felonies, violent crimes, DUI and domestic battery are excluded from automatic sealing.

While sealed records won't be available to private background check companies, it is important to point out that law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, the Department of Children and Family Services and state agencies authorized by law would retain full access to these records. The law aims to prevent eligible individuals from being held back by records that should already be sealed while maintaining public safety protections.

To ensure successful implementation, the law also creates the Illinois Clean Slate Task Force to monitor the development of processes for sealing criminal records without petition, create a comprehensive implementation plan, and oversee the execution of the measure’s provisions. 

“The Clean Slate Act's passage culminates years of cooperative effort among criminal justice reformers, police agencies and legislators focused on harmonizing opportunity with security," said Sims. "This policy underscores Illinois' commitment to research-backed approaches that acknowledge the importance of fresh starts while safeguarding the public."

House Bill 1836 was signed into law Friday.

Sims announces Valentine’s Day card collection drive for seniors

CHICAGO – To show appreciation and lift the spirits of local seniors, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is collecting cards for residents in long-term care facilities for Valentine’s Day.

“Whether handmade or store-bought, a card during Valentine’s Day can serve as a reminder to older residents that they are cared for and seen,” said Sims (D-Chicago).  “One card can deliver so much power.”

Sims is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely during Valentine’s Day. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Feb. 11 to Sims’ office at 8233 S. Princeton Ave., Chicago, IL 60620. Cards can be dropped through the mail slot.

For more information, contact Sims’ office at 773-933-7715.

Sims leads pathway to FOID card eligibility for diversion program graduates

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing mistakes can turn into learning opportunities, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. worked across the aisle to lead a new law to allow low-level, first-time weapon offenders to apply for a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card upon completing a diversion program.

“We are taking a balanced approach to recognize people can learn from their past mistakes and deserve a second chance,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Diversion programs acknowledge rehabilitation while ensuring existing safeguards remain firmly in place.”

Under Sims’ law, participants who complete the First Time Weapons Offense Diversion Program can apply for a FOID card after receiving a court order demonstrating successful program completion – so long as they meet all other existing eligibility requirements. The program will only be for individuals charged with a Class 4 felony – the lowest class felony charge for weapons.

“Many people in diversion programs are young adults who deserve a second chance to move forward,” said Sims. “Pathways to restoration are vital to rebuilding lives and build stronger communities.”  

Senate Bill 1899 takes effect Jan. 1.