Metro East Sun

Rep. Elik provided an update on several important issues affecting the 111th district, including legislative efforts, economic performance, and local achievements.

BETRAYING FAITH

After passing Faith’s Law in 2021 to define sexual misconduct within school codes and establish conduct policies for school employees, Rep. Elik identified a loophole. The original legislation did not protect students aged 18 or older or those with disabilities who can attend high school until age 23. The updated legislation aims to close this loophole by adding employment history reviews during hiring processes and requiring notices to parents/guardians when allegations of sexual misconduct arise.

Despite the need for this measure, it remains stalled in the Senate assignments committee. "Faith’s Law was intended to protect all students," said Elik. "My legislation would close the loophole and protect all students, regardless of age."

CORRUPTION

Michael McClain, a defendant in the federal corruption case involving former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, has requested a separate trial from Madigan. McClain's defense argues that Madigan's team plans to blame him for any wrongdoing, which could prejudice McClain's right to a fair trial.

“McClain respectfully seeks severance of his case from Co-Defendant Michael Madigan because a joint trial will result in such prejudice to Mr. McClain that his fundamental due process right to a fair trial will be denied,” defense attorneys wrote in their motion.

Madigan faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment but has pleaded not guilty.

ECONOMY

The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) released a report criticizing Illinois' economic performance compared to other states using four key metrics: Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), total nonfarm payroll employment, unemployment rate, and total personal income.

Illinois' economy grew at an anemic 2.8% post-COVID-19 shutdowns and ranked 46th in growth among states. Employment growth also lagged behind national rates with only 0.2% growth since February 2020, ranking Illinois 45th nationwide. The state's unemployment rate stood at 4.9%, higher than the national average of 4%. Personal income growth trailed national trends at a rate of 3.7%.

HB4255

Governor signed HB4255 into law to enhance safety protocols for tow truck operators and emergency responders by allowing green lighting on vehicles responding to incidents on roadways alongside amber and white lights.

Paw Paw Towing brought this need forward following the death of driver Wade Bivens last November on Interstate 255 near Columbia. “This legislation stands as a testament to Senator Harriss and my commitment to ensuring the safety of those who selflessly serve our communities,” said Elik.

2024 SUMMER OLYMPICS

The Paris Summer Olympic Games began on July 26 and will conclude on August 11 with athletes competing in various sports. Among them are East Alton’s Jayden Ulrich competing in track and field events representing Illinois.

"Congrats to Jayden and keep making us proud!" said Elik.

For assistance with state agencies, constituents are encouraged to contact Rep. Elik's office at 618-433-8046.

___