State Representative Dave Severin and State Senator Terri Bryant met with law enforcement officials at the Mt. Vernon Police Department this week to discuss ongoing challenges facing officers under recent state laws. The roundtable centered on the SAFE-T Act, the end of cash bail, and the TRUST Act, which outlines Illinois’ sanctuary state policies.
Among those in attendance were Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Bullard, Marion County Sheriff Kevin Cripps, Mt. Vernon Police Chief Robert Brands, Wayne City Police Chief Jason Settle, and other school resource and sheriff’s office representatives. The meeting provided officers a chance to share firsthand experiences and concerns about how the new laws are affecting public safety. Rep. Severin expressed particular concern over issues within the juvenile justice system, noting an increase in repeat offenses and limited rehabilitation resources.
“We have minors committing serious crimes and cycling through the system with little success in rehabilitation,” Severin said. “We need solutions that protect our schools and communities while supporting law enforcement and social services.”
Sen. Bryant, who serves on the Senate’s Criminal Law Committee, said the reforms have complicated law enforcement efforts.
“We have heard stories of offenders being released without bail and committing new crimes while awaiting trial,” she said.
Both lawmakers said they plan to push for joint House and Senate hearings to review the SAFE-T Act, TRUST Act, and juvenile justice system, with the goal of exploring potential legislative changes.
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