Changes Needed to SAFE-T Act After Release of Suspect in Fentanyl Bust

SPRINGFIELD – In a case that has shocked many in Grundy County, local authorities recently arrested two Honduran nationals found in possession of 3 kilograms of fentanyl—an amount so deadly it could kill 1.5 million people. Yet, within 48 hours of the arrest, one of the suspects walked free, leading to urgent calls from lawmakers to change state law to keep communities safe.

The arrests immediately triggered a pre-trial release hearing, mandated to occur within 48 hours under the SAFE-T Act. During the hearing, the Grundy County State’s Attorney sought to detain both suspects due to the severity of the charges. While one suspect was held due to an Immigration Detainer Warrant, the other individual was released because officials were unable to access his criminal history within the narrow 48-hour window.

Shortly after the man’s release, authorities in California informed Grundy County officials that the released suspect had a juvenile criminal record. Had this information been available during the hearing, it could have strengthened the case for detention. This delay in obtaining critical background information has raised concerns about weaknesses in the SAFE-T Act, which critics argue limits the time law enforcement and prosecutors have to gather necessary evidence before making release decisions.

Now, lawmakers are pushing to change the SAFE-T Act, specifically targeting the 48-hour pre-trial release hearing requirement. Among the legislative changes under consideration is a proposal to classify Class X felony fentanyl charges as detainable by default, shifting the responsibility onto defendants to prove their eligibility for pre-trial release, rather than placing the burden on the State’s Attorney or judge.

With fentanyl continuing to endanger communities across Illinois, Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) stressed the urgency of reform, saying law enforcement needs the time and authority to make informed decisions for the safety of their communities. Lawmakers are now pushing for reforms to ensure authorities have the tools necessary to respond effectively to the escalating threat posed by fentanyl.

Veto Session Set to Begin

The Illinois General Assembly’s annual Fall Veto Session is approaching, scheduled for November 12-14 and November 19-21. While traditionally focused on addressing legislation vetoed by the Governor, this year there are no vetoes on the agenda. However, the Veto Session also provides an opportunity to revisit legislative items that were left unresolved or not addressed during the spring session.

If lawmakers decide to introduce new bills or reconsider previously unpassed legislation, they will need a three-fifths majority vote in both chambers for immediate effect.

For more information on the legislation passed earlier this year, check out the Senate Republican “At a Glance” document, which offers a summary of key measures approved during the spring session.

SOS Campaign Promotes Awareness of Distracted Driving

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has launched a new campaign, “One Road. One Focus,” aimed at raising awareness of the risks associated with distracted driving, especially among teen drivers.

A key component of the campaign is geared toward educating teen drivers about the consequences of distracted driving, requiring a new mandatory video that teens must watch during their learner’s permit phase. This educational video is part of an ongoing effort to instill safer driving habits early on, helping new drivers understand the serious impact their attention—or lack thereof—could have on Illinois roadways.

The Secretary of State’s office is also partnering with the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation to introduce designated “Distracted Driver Corridors” across the state in areas prone to high crash rates. These safety corridors will include signage to remind drivers of the increased risks in these areas, encouraging greater caution.

For more information on the “One Road. One Focus” campaign or other safety initiatives to reduce distracted driving in Illinois, click here.

IDFPR Launches New Online Professional Licensing System

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) recently launched the Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment (CORE), a new online licensing system for IDFPR-licensed professionals.

This digital transition begins with three license types—clinical psychologists, nail technicians, and music therapists—who can now complete their entire application process online. CORE seeks to streamline and modernize licensing, moving away from paper applications and simplifying the review process for license applications received by IDFPR.

This launch is the first phase of a two-year rollout that will transition licensing for more than 300 professional license types and manage records for more than 1.2 million professionals. More information about professional licensing in Illinois can be found on IDFPR’s website.