The Illinois General Assembly concluded its session with the passage of nearly 400 bills, including measures on immigration detention centers, exoneree restitution, and foster care protections. These bills now await Governor JB Pritzker’s signature to become law.

Exoneree Restitution

House Bill 3663 aims to increase compensation for individuals wrongfully imprisoned in Illinois, aligning with federal standards set in 2004. The Court of Claims could award up to $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment and $25,000 per year on parole or probation, with no cap. This bill, a result of efforts by the Illinois Innocence Project, passed unanimously.

Detention Center Limitations

House Bill 5024 seeks to restrict new immigration detention centers from being built within 1,500 feet of homes, schools, and other sensitive areas. Sponsored by House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, the bill passed along party lines and may face legal challenges due to federal exemptions from state zoning laws.

Foster Care Protections

House Bill 4966, known as the SECURE Act, enhances nondiscrimination protections for children in foster care, especially those placed out of state. It mandates that Illinois children receive consistent care and services, and protects personal information related to sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill passed despite concerns about potential resource strains on the Department of Child and Family Services.

Additional Measures

Other notable bills include House Bill 4418, which addresses plastic pellet pollution, and House Bill 4911, expanding mandated reporters to include financial professionals to combat elder abuse. Senate Bill 3465 mandates sanitary facilities at construction sites, and Senate Bill 2968 establishes a state-run investment fund for nonprofits.

Original reporting: WQAD (Quad Cities) — read the source article.