Quincy Reporter

On October 1, Illinois Senate Republicans held a news conference to voice concerns over federal data indicating that more than half a million non-citizens with criminal convictions or pending charges reside in the United States. State Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) highlighted the potential threat these individuals pose to Illinois residents. Of the 662,556 non-citizens on ICE's national docket, 435,719 are convicted criminals and 226,847 have pending charges. This includes over 13,000 convicted of homicide and 15,811 of sexual assault.

Following the conference, Republican lawmakers sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul requesting data specific to Illinois. Senator Tracy emphasized the importance of this information, suggesting that national figures might obscure state-specific issues. She noted that under Governor JB Pritzker's administration, funding for non-citizen programs increased from a few million dollars annually to over a billion dollars, alongside recent tax hikes.

The Republicans pointed out challenges in public safety and transparency due to limited cooperation between state law enforcement and ICE, exacerbated by policies like the TRUST Act implemented under Governor Pritzker. They remain committed to ensuring transparency about non-citizen criminals in Illinois.

In other developments, October has been declared Cybersecurity Awareness Month by official proclamation from the Governor. The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology is providing resources for residents to protect their personal information online amidst growing digital threats.

Additionally, Senator Tracy is encouraging constituents to honor veterans by submitting photos and stories of loved ones who served in the military for display at the Illinois Capitol from November 11-25 in honor of Veterans Day.

Illinois' fall trout season will commence on October 19 across various designated locations statewide. Anglers must possess a valid fishing license and inland trout stamp for participation.

Furthermore, applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are now open for winter energy assistance. Priority groups can apply now, while all income-eligible households may apply starting November 1.