SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing mistakes can turn into learning opportunities, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. worked across the aisle to pass a measure 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’ measure, participants who complete the First Time Weapons Offense Diversion Program could 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 would 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 passed the Senate with bipartisan support Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.
The 2025 Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation Scholarship cycle is open! All eligible high school seniors and undergraduate students in Illinois who plan to further their education at a two- or four-year college this fall are encouraged to apply online by May 31 at ILBCF.org/scholarships.
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is expanding upon his work to make the criminal justice system more fair, transparent and equitable by requiring police dashboard camera recordings to be retained for a longer period of time.
"Dashboard camera footage is an objective witness that protects both officers and citizens,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “When we limit how long these records are kept, we risk losing crucial evidence that could either exonerate the innocent or hold the guilty accountable.”
Sims’ law will require recordings from cameras in law enforcement patrol vehicles to be retained for 90 days – putting the retention period in line with the time body-camera footage must be kept.
Additionally, if an officer’s body-worn camera is turned off at the request of a victim or witness, the officer must continue in-car video recording and inform the person of that.
Senate Bill 2655 was signed into law Friday.
SPRINGFIELD – Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. released the following statement after the governor outlined his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026:
“Through our unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility, Illinois has engineered a remarkable financial turnaround that marks a defining moment in our state's economic history. Just 10 years ago, Illinois was in the midst of a two-year budget impasse as we faced an unsustainable cycle of unpaid bills and neared junk bond status. However, thanks to the last six years of balanced budgets, we have bounced back and are on the path toward long-term stability and prosperity.
“We’re facing an unprecedented year – in part due to unpredictability from the federal government. However, just like the uncertainty faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, our spending will be a direct result of the crisis we face. At the forefront of fiscal responsibility, we will meet and challenge what’s in front of us. We’ve done that before – and we’ll do it again.
“The governor’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is a good first step toward investing and preparing for our future, but our work is far from done. I look forward to joining my colleagues in the General Assembly in having a robust discussion about this year’s budget and passing a budget that is balanced, extremely bright, and addresses the very real needs of the people of this great state.”
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