SE Illinois News

State Representative Patrick Windhorst has introduced a new bill, HB 1478, aimed at protecting children from fentanyl exposure. The proposed legislation would create two criminal offenses: fentanyl-related child endangerment and aggravated fentanyl-related child endangerment. Under this bill, it would be a crime to knowingly or recklessly expose a child under 18 to fentanyl, with harsher penalties if the exposure results in severe outcomes for the child.

This legislative effort was inspired by incidents in Massac County where children ingested fentanyl. Massac County State’s Attorney Josh Stratemeyer brought the idea forward. If enacted, the penalties for fentanyl-related child endangerment could result in up to seven years of imprisonment for a Class 2 Felony. Aggravated cases could lead to up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.

In another initiative, Rep. Windhorst is gathering signatures opposing the legalization of prostitution in Illinois. He expressed concerns over potential increases in sexual assault and human trafficking should such legislation pass.

“When I learned that an Illinois legislator was pursuing the legalization of prostitution, I was at first in disbelief,” said Windhorst. “However, as I watched the press conference where the effort was announced, I became disturbed and concerned for the health, well-being, and safety of women of all ages.”

Windhorst's petition against legalized prostitution is available on his website.

In other news related to legal proceedings within Illinois politics, Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane MacArthur accused former Speaker Mike Madigan of engaging in bribery schemes involving companies like Commonwealth Edison and AT&T Illinois during her closing arguments.

“He (Madigan) wanted Solis to reach out the developers because the developers weren’t going to say no to Danny Solis – not when Solis held those cards in his hand as alderman and zoning board chair,” MacArthur told the jury.

MacArthur criticized Madigan's failure to confront Solis earlier despite acknowledging concern over Solis' "quid pro quo" comments.

“Danny Solis was not subtle when he was talking to Madigan about this arrangement,” she added. “Madigan could’ve said, ‘Danny, stop. I don’t do business this way.’”

The trial continues as prosecutors paint these actions as bribes intended to facilitate favorable legislative outcomes.

Additionally, ongoing challenges against state laws were discussed before the Illinois Supreme Court this week. Deputy Solicitor General Alex Hemmer defended a law limiting lawsuit venues to Sangamon County but faced questions from Justice David Overstreet regarding fairness and potential forum shopping.

“A judge in Sangamon County or Cook County instead of one of the judges that citizens of one of these circuits have elected,” Overstreet questioned. “Why is that not unreasonable?”

These developments reflect various issues facing lawmakers and citizens across Illinois today.