“Imposing these fees on car and motor vehicle dealers who default on paying back monies they legally owe our state is what’s fair for citizens and consumers, and can help with our critical financial situation that we must address” – Sen. Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III (D–Chicago) saw his legislation providing for economic stimulation and justice with establishing monetary penalties for motor vehicle dealers behind in repaying fees they owe the state pass the Senate last Friday. 

“Imposing these fees on car and motor vehicle dealers who default on paying back what they owe our state is what’s fair for citizens and consumers,” Jones said, “and can help with our critical financial situation that we must address.”

Senate Bill 1828 authorizes the Secretary of State’s office to collect, with the intent to deposit the money into the Motor Vehicle License Plate Fund, delinquent vehicle dealer transfer fees according to an established scale. 

“With recouping these funds our state is owed, we’re not just looking out for Illinoisans’ best interest, but also taking an important step toward easing our fiscal crisis,” Jones said. “I am pleased with and grateful for the outpouring of support by my colleagues on this issue and look forward to continued positive progress in the House.”

The legislation also encompasses changing the word “Chapter” to “Code” in the interest of clarity and correctly referencing the Illinois Vehicle Code.

SB 1828 passed the Senate with a 48-1-0 vote and now moves to and awaits the consideration of the Illinois House.

“We have to send the message that such disrespectful and dangerous behavior, especially during periods of mourning, has no place in our communities.” – Sen. Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD – A topic that has captured the attention of Illinois media and the General Assembly is that of reckless driving during gang funerals.

To respond to the disquieting issue, State Senator Emil Jones (D-Chicago) spoke out this week on legislation he is chief co-sponsoring providing for action to be taken against reckless driving during the funerals of gang members.

“Throughout my legislative career, I have consistently advocated for gang and violence prevention, a problem rampant across Chicago but particularly prevalent in the South Side communities I represent,” Jones said. “That’s why this measure has special significance for me, because this is going to allow us to accomplish curbing these gang demonstrations and their disruption of peace during funeral observances presenting unfair risks to our communities.”

Last September, the Chicago Tribune offered a telling exposé of this issue, detailing the irresponsible weaving in and out of traffic lanes, blaring music and gang signs/gestures thrown out of car windows accompanying memorials at Mount Hope Cemetery (which often serves as the site of funerals for deceased gang members).

Residents of the South Side communities of Mount Greenwood and Beverly have been particularly vocal in expressing their concern for public safety and frustration with these frequent rowdy memorials for late gang members. 

Senate Bill 2154 allows municipalities to adopt procedures and regulations for the impoundment of vehicles driven recklessly while part of a funeral procession and/or in such a way that impedes a funeral procession.

“Being able to not just provide a ticket but tow the vehicles of mourners driving irresponsibly while promoting gang activity or paraphernalia during funerals is of the utmost importance for our public’s safety,” Jones said. “We have to send the message that such disrespectful and dangerous behavior, especially during periods of mourning, has no place in our communities.”

SB 2154 passed the Senate on Wednesday and awaits further consideration by the Illinois House. 

“This measure addresses a significant void we need to fill.” -  Senator Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Emil Jones III (D–Chicago) saw his bill targeted toward improvement of Illinois law addressing labor relations pass the Senate last Friday. 

“This measure addresses a significant void we need to fill,” Jones said. “Currently there are no substantial regulations to deal with the disciplinary action of suspension and dismissals of selected mediators and the consequent costs.”   

Senate Bill 1830 clarifies that the Illinois Labor Relations Board shall be authorized but not obligated to establish compensation levels and suspension or dismissal procedures of mediators chosen by state and local panels.

The legislation in no way changes the manner in which mediation occurs or the way in which mediators are chosen by the parties involved in a mediation.  

“I am proud of the progress seen today with respect to this measure,” Jones said, “I hope in the future we continue to see favorable outcomes in regards to this legislation as it is debated in the House.”

SB 1830 passed with a vote of 51-0-0 and now awaits the consideration of the Illinois House.