The controversial abolishment of cash bail in Illinois has had unintended consequences, particularly in relation to the shortage of public defenders in the state. Under current law, only counties with 35,000 or more residents are required to establish offices of public defender, and even these are not required to be full-time positions. As a result, more than half of Illinois' counties do not have full-time public defenders.To address the challenges posed by the Pretrial Fairness Act, the Illinois Supreme Court issued an order in August allowing pretrial hearings to be...
In recognition of Red Ribbon Week, Rep. Severin is calling on everyone to take a stand against drug abuse and commit to a drug-free lifestyle. Red Ribbon Week, which takes place from October 23 to October 31, is an annual campaign that aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and promote prevention efforts.During Red Ribbon Week, individuals of all ages are encouraged to increase their understanding of the dangers of drug abuse, including the misuse of prescription drugs. It serves as a reminder to stay informed about the negative consequences that...
Red Ribbon Week, an annual event that takes place in the last week of October, aims to raise awareness about the importance of living a drug-free life. This week-long campaign encourages both youth and adults to increase their knowledge about the destructive effects of drug abuse and renew their commitment to maintaining a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.During Red Ribbon Week, individuals across the nation participate in various activities and programs that emphasize the significance of staying away from drugs. These initiatives serve as a reminder of the negative...
The controversial abolishment of cash bail in Illinois has had unintended consequences, particularly in the area of public defender resources. Illinois law currently only requires counties with a population of 35,000 or more to have full-time public defender offices, leaving more than half of the state's counties without this essential service. This disparity in resources has become even more pronounced with the implementation of the Pretrial Fairness Act, which requires defendants to appear before a judge within 48 hours of arrest.In order to comply with this...
In Williamson County schools, there were more white students than any other individual ethnicity in the 2021-22 school year, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.
Illinois Representative Severin took the time to express his gratitude to the principals in his state on Principal Appreciation Day. He acknowledged the crucial role that principals play in ensuring the smooth functioning of schools and extended his heartfelt thanks to these remarkable individuals. In a statement, Representative Severin said, "Thank you to our Illinois principals for all that they do to keep our schools running smoothly for students, teachers, and staff." He recognized the tireless efforts put forth by principals to create a conducive learning environment...
James T. Weiss, a corrupt businessman, has been sentenced to 5 ½ years in prison for bribing two Illinois Democratic lawmakers and lying to the FBI. The sentencing was handed down by U.S. District Judge Steven Seeger at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse in Chicago on October 11.During the trial that concluded in June, Weiss was found guilty of honest services wire and mail fraud, bribery, and lying to the FBI. He had paid $32,500 in bribes to then-state representative Luis Arroyo and $5,000 to then-state senator Terry Link in an attempt to change state law for his electronic...
Illinois principals are being recognized and appreciated for their tireless efforts in keeping schools running smoothly for students, teachers, and staff. On this special occasion of Principal Appreciation Day, we extend our gratitude and admiration to these amazing individuals who play a vital role in the education system.Principals are the backbone of any school, responsible for creating a positive and conducive learning environment. They are not only administrators but also mentors, motivators, and problem solvers. Their dedication and commitment to the well-being and...