Senate approves Fine’s plan to protect the rights of families visiting jailed loved ones

SPRINGFIELD – Family members of people serving time would be ensured fair treatment by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) under legislation sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview).

“I’ve had the opportunity to hear from so many parents, siblings, children and friends of incarcerated individuals on this issue. When they expect a visit and get turned away, it can be heartbreaking,” said Fine. “We should be encouraging people to maintain connections with family and friends, which will improve their lives during and after incarceration.”

The measure requires IDOC to appoint a point-of-contact person to receive suggestions, complaints and other comments from visitors to prison facilities, and from other members of the public.

To draft the legislation, Fine partnered with Restore Justice, a Chicago-based organization that advocates for fairness, humanity and compassion throughout the Illinois criminal justice system.

The Restore Justice team has witnessed countless visitors being turned away unfairly. In one instance, IDOC facility staff confiscated a baby blanket from a family with an infant and denied a visit when the infant cried, claiming that the child was being disruptive.

“These families deserve to see their concerns addressed,” said Fine. “This legislation is one step toward comprehensive criminal justice reform. It’s time to build a system that will ensure dignity for incarcerated Illinoisans and their loved ones.”

Senate Bill 2311 passed the Senate without opposition and now heads to the House.

You're Invited! Join Sen. Fine for an Environmental Town Hall

SPRINGFIELD – Residents interested in environmental causes are encouraged to join State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) at an upcoming Environmental Town Hall, where panelists will discuss current legislation designed to protect natural resources and combat climate change.

“I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to communicate my ambitious legislative agenda to the eco-conscious residents of our community,” said Fine. “Protecting our wetlands, transitioning to clean energy and reducing the amount of trash in our landfills are all priorities this session.”

Other speakers include Rep. Robyn Gabel, Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz and representatives from various local environmental groups. The event is hosted by the Illinois Environmental Council. The event is free and open to the public, and online registration is encouraged, but not required.

Senator Fine advocates for family members of incarcerated Illinoisans

SPRINGFIELD – Family members of people serving time would be ensured fair treatment by the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) under a new bill sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview).

“A family member might travel for hours to see their loved one and then can be denied the visit on a whim,” said Fine. “We need to respect these families and give visitors the power to make sure their grievances and suggestions are heard.”

The measure requires IDOC to appoint a point-of-contact person to receive suggestions, complaints and other comments from visitors to prison facilities, and from other members of the public.

To draft the legislation, Fine partnered with Restore Justice, a Chicago-based organization that advocates for fairness, humanity and compassion throughout the Illinois criminal justice system.

The Restore Justice team has witnessed countless visitors being turned away unfairly. In one instance, staff confiscated a baby blanket from a family with an infant and denied a visit when the infant cried, claiming that the child was being disruptive.

Many of the families who work with Restore Justice were unwilling to be identified for fear that prison staff might retaliate and deny future visits to their loved ones.

“People shouldn’t be afraid to speak out against injustice,” said Fine. “It’s time to introduce criminal justice reforms that ensure everyone is treated with fairness and empathy—not only those who are incarcerated, but also the people who love them.”

Senate Bill 2311 advanced out of the Senate State Government Committee and now goes before the full Senate.

Fine: Investments in juvenile justice necessary to achieve generational justice

SPRINGFIELD – In response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget address today, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) issued the following statement:

“I was heartened to hear Gov. Pritzker reaffirm his commitment to reforming our state’s juvenile justice system in his budget proposal.

“For too long, the incarceration of children has caused lasting harm to families and communities across the state. The lack of restorative justice alternatives available for these youths is a lost opportunity for progress and rehabilitation that has proven devastating for generations of Illinoisans.

“To begin the healing process, we must begin to reform the way our justice system treats juvenile offenders. A budget that invests in court diversion and restorative justice programs is the first step toward long-term recovery for our families, our neighborhoods and our state.

“I support a budget that provides much needed funding to our Department of Juvenile Justice and starts Illinois on the path toward a criminal justice system that gives our youths the chance to reach their full potential.”