Expand / Collapse search
☰

Illinois SAFE-T Act: County board OKs resolution to oppose controversial new law

By FOX 32 Digital Staff
Published  October 21, 2022 10:18am CDT
McHenry County
FOX 32 Chicago

Illinois SAFE-T Act which will end cash bail explained

Illinois will be the first state in the nation to end cash bail, which is sparking concern that more criminals could be out on the street.

WOODSTOCK, Ill. - The McHenry County Board has voted to oppose a controversial Illinois public safety law set to take effect next year.

County board members voted 13-8 at a Tuesday night meeting to pass a resolution opposing the SAFE-T Act after listening to the public's comments and engaging in a "robust debate" on how to protect the interests of McHenry County constituents, a statement said.

The Illinois Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity - Today Act, also known as the SAFE-T Act, is a broad criminal justice reform law enacted by the Illinois General Assembly, which will eliminate cash bail and change standards for detaining arrested individuals.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE FOX 32 YOUTUBE CHANNEL

The board also passed a resolution Tuesday opposing House Bill 3447 by a vote of 14-6, the statement said.

The criminal justice legislation would reduce the penalty for possession of less than three grams of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine from a felony to a misdemeanor.

"As public officials, it is our highest responsibility to protect the safety of our residents," said County Board Chairman Mike Buehler, R-Crystal Lake. "By opposing the SAFE-T Act and House Bill 3447, McHenry County is sending a clear message to Springfield that we oppose legislation that could put criminals back on the streets and decriminalize illegal drugs in our community."

Portions of the SAFE-T Act are set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2023.