Carbondale Reporter

A recent report from the Illinois Auditor General has found that the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) continues to face significant issues. The audit noted that 29 out of 34 findings were repeat problems from previous years, indicating ongoing management concerns during Governor Pritzker’s tenure.

Lawmakers have expressed concern that DCFS’s persistent challenges in handling child abuse and neglect cases put children at risk. The death of 18-year-old Mackenzi Felmlee, who had been known to DCFS, has led to renewed calls for change.

State Senator Terri Bryant stated, “These repeated failures are unacceptable and that it is time to implement meaningful reforms that hold leadership accountable and better protect children in the agency’s care.”

In other developments, Senate Republicans criticized Governor JB Pritzker for his approach to redistricting. At a press conference on August 2 in DuPage County, the governor appeared with Texas Democrats who left their state over proposed congressional maps. He suggested Illinois might also need to redraw its own maps and mentioned a possible special session of the General Assembly.

Senate Republicans pointed out what they see as a double standard by the governor, referencing his earlier campaign promise to support independent redistricting. In 2021, Pritzker signed off on maps drawn by Democratic lawmakers—maps critics say were designed to maintain party control rather than ensure fair representation.

Senator Bryant commented, “Pritzker’s effort to weigh in on redistricting in other states while ignoring his own record reveals a clear double standard.” She added that discussions about redistricting should focus on serving families in Illinois and restoring trust rather than maintaining political power.

New legislation aimed at supporting young farmers has become law. State Senator Sally Turner introduced Senate Bill 2372, which establishes the Farmland Transition Commission within the Illinois Department of Agriculture. This commission will study obstacles faced by young farmers aged 25-40 and suggest policies for easing farmland transitions.

Senator Bryant said, “This law brings together policymakers, agricultural leaders, and young farmers to ensure the long-term success of farming in Illinois.” She emphasized improving access to farmland as key for preserving family farms and securing agriculture’s future.

Bryant was elected as a Republican state senator representing Illinois’ 58th District in 2021 after Paul Schimpf stepped down (https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=102&MemberID=2980).

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced that applications are open for youth hunters interested in participating in this fall’s managed deer hunt. A lottery drawing will be held August 26 for spots during the October youth firearm deer season at Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area (JEPC) in Cass County and Sangamon County State Conservation Area.

Applicants must mail their information before August 25; selected hunters can purchase permits starting August 5. Youths under age 18 may participate if they meet permit requirements and are accompanied according to regulations.

Additionally, Senator Bryant is working with State Representative Dave Severin to host a Senior Fair on Wednesday, August 13 in Mt. Vernon. Local vendors will provide information about programs benefiting seniors along with legislative brochures.