Metro East Sun

Two years after the SAFE-T Act’s no-cash bail provision took effect in Illinois, State Representative Kevin Schmidt has criticized the law, saying it has not delivered on its promises. The legislation, signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker in February 2021, was intended to reform the criminal justice system and make incarceration practices more equitable.

According to Schmidt, “The law was rushed through during a lame-duck session and made sweeping changes, putting criminals over victims, imposing unfunded mandates on police officers and counties, and eliminating cash bail.” He claims that since September 2023, when the no-cash bail system became active statewide, courts have been overwhelmed and police face additional challenges. Schmidt argues that repeat offenders are cycling in and out of custody while families question whether the justice system is still effective.

Schmidt cited several media reports to support his concerns:

- “Accused killer walks free under Illinois SAFE-T Act” – WIFR

- “Police chiefs warn criminals are emboldened after bail reform” – Daily Herald

- “Counties face mounting costs, confusion with SAFE-T Act mandates” – Capitol News Illinois

- “Repeat offender charged with burglary days after release” – Chicago Tribune

- “Victims’ families outraged after suspects released under new law” – ABC7 Chicago

“These headlines, just a snapshot of the past two years, underscore what communities across the state already know: the SAFE-T Act is not working,” said Schmidt.

Schmidt supports legislative measures (HB1479, HB1482, and HB1483) aimed at restoring judicial authority to revoke pretrial release, expanding detainable offenses, and issuing warrants for those who do not comply with release conditions. He describes these as targeted reforms meant to address gaps exploited by offenders.

In addition to his legislative work, Schmidt recently visited the Lebanon Public Library to donate a book authored by Catherine Donelle Gress of Minerva Boutique. He noted that the library offers activities for children and collaborates with over 300 libraries in southern Illinois.

Schmidt also recognized Minerva Boutique as “Business of the Month,” presenting an official certificate to owner Catherine Donelle Gress for her contributions to the community. He encourages nominations for local businesses in the 114th District through a form available on his website.

Reflecting on recent events in Illinois politics, Schmidt commented on the passing of former Governor Jim Edgar: “Illinois has lost a great statesman with the passing of former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar. Even after his time in office, Governor Edgar continued to advocate for better government in Illinois. He has inspired generations of Illinois leaders through the Edgar Fellows program where he encouraged respectful open dialogue and collaboration. Our hearts go out to his family and to all who knew and admired him.”

Schmidt announced upcoming mobile office hours in October as an opportunity for constituents to discuss state issues directly with him.

He also acknowledged National Family Day as a reminder of family support systems: “National Family Day celebrates the relationships that give our lives meaning. It encourages us to slow down and be present with those we love. Families offer critical support throughout life, and today is the perfect time to honor and deepen those connections.”

Kevin Schmidt was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 114th House District in 2023 following LaToya Greenwood’s tenure.

Other recent news topics mentioned include federal scholarships for rural students in Illinois, political debates over redistricting maps, energy policy discussions about nuclear power and battery storage funding, as well as coverage related to public figures such as Charlie Kirk.