Proposed Illinois law would cut all prison sentences in half
A proposed bill could grant JoAnn Cunningham – who is serving 35 years for killing her 5-year-old son AJ in their Crystal Lake home – freedom after completing only half her sentence.
That’s one example of what would happen should House Bill 5219, sponsored by state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, a Democrat from Aurora, and co-sponsors Kevin John Olickal and Lilian Jiminez, becomes law. The measure, if passed during the so-called lame-duck session in January, would allow incarcerated people who’ve been convicted of even the most egregious felonies – including first-degree murder, aggravated predatory criminal sexual assault of a child and driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance resulting in death – to serve only half the imposed sentence.
Under the current truth-in-sentencing laws, most prison terms in Illinois, except for those for murder, are not served in full. This new proposed law would require that all prison terms – regardless of the crime – be served at 50%. The proposed law would work retroactively, reducing sentences of those already serving time in prison.
Crop Yield Report
llinois’ first crop yield forecast for 2024 is out. Here’s what is expected for corn, soybeans, and winter wheat crops across the state.
https://www.wjbc.com/2024/08/13/usda-releases-first-crop-yield-forecast-for-2024-in-illinois
IDFPR Announces Plans for New Digital Licensure Process for Working Professionals in Illinois
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has reached an agreement to secure a new professional licensing system for individuals whose careers require a license to work in Illinois.
With a focus on increased government transparency, the new licensing system will feature a user-friendly interface with improved communications and creates a streamlined review of license applications and fees. Prospective licensees will be notified electronically when applications are received, reviewed, and licenses are issued by the Department.
IDFPR will announce the next steps related to the new licensing system as they become available. More information about professional licensing in Illinois may be found on IDFPR’s website: idfpr.illinois.gov.
Bravo Illinois Olympians!
Did you know Illinois was among the top medal-winning states in the Olympics this year? Congrats to all our Illinois Olympians and Team USA!