“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 Illinois media and the General Assembly’s attention is that of reckless driving during gang funerals.

To respond to the issue, State Sen. Emil Jones (D-Chicago) joined forces with Sen. Bill Cunningham (D-Chicago) on legislation providing for action to be taken against reckless driving during gang members’ funerals that is now on its’ way to the governor’s desk.

“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. “This measure has special significance for me, because this will curb gang demonstrations and the disruption of peace during funeral observances.”

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 Illinois House and, now having received the approval of both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly, moves to Gov. Pat Quinn for consideration.

State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) is recommending to residents interested in a career in the construction trades to apply for the New Malcolm X College & Allied Health Science Academy Community Jobs Program.  The program will connect qualified individuals with training programs at City Colleges' Dawson Technical Institute to prepare them for skilled positions on the Malcolm X College project.

Participants in the program must be 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, be able to pass a drug screening, have a valid driver's license/state ID & have no outstanding debt to Chicago City Colleges.

Financial assistance for qualified applicants is available.

Classes begin June 7th at Dawson Technical Institute, located at 3901 S. State St. in Chicago. Call (773) 451-2020 for more information.

In order to pre-register, please submit your Name, phone number & address to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) met with a group of students on Tuesday from East Palos Elementary School for Tech Day.

The group came to the Capitol to show members of the General Assembly projects they completed during the current school year and advocate to legislators about the importance of funding for education.

“The projects East Palos students presented were absolutely remarkable,” Jones said. “I was truly impressed by these students’ ability to effectively use technology as a tool to give their project more detail and clarity.”

Jones said funding education at an adequate level is a top priority for him and other lawmakers.

“Providing adequate funding for education is unquestionably one of the most important funding issues in our budget.” Jones said. “With advances in technology, we need to ensure that we are giving the next generation the tools to succeed and compete in a growing, technology centered global economy.”