East Central Reporter

State Representative Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro) recently hosted a Public Safety Roundtable event in Mattoon, Illinois. The meeting included police chiefs from the 101st district and aimed to discuss the SAFE-T Act, mental health issues, and strategies for improving public safety in Illinois communities.

“The safety and security of Illinois residents has been compromised by radical Democrats so-called SAFE-T Act,” Rep. Miller stated. “Small-town communities and police departments have growing concerns about public safety, and they want criminals behind bars and not in their backyard.”

Police chiefs at the event expressed concerns that crime rates are not decreasing in Illinois. They noted that many prosecutors are reluctant to press charges against criminals, and eliminating cash bail could lead to more repeat offenders. One proposed solution was to remove class 3 felony offenses or higher from being eligible for pretrial release under the SAFE-T Act.

The discussion also highlighted challenges faced by officers when responding to calls involving individuals with mental health issues. The police chiefs advocated for long-term mental health facilities in Illinois to provide necessary support for those affected. Currently, there is no state solution addressing the growing mental health crisis.

Rep. Miller emphasized the need for policy changes: “After listening to valid concerns from the police chiefs, one thing is clear: Illinois must take action to adopt policies that support law enforcement and create a funding program for mental health facilities. Illinois residents deserve to feel safe in their communities and I will continue to advocate for policy reforms that hold criminals accountable for breaking the law. Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line on a daily basis, and they need adequate resources and tools to ensure Illinois citizens are protected from criminals.”

For further information, Rep. Miller’s office can be contacted at (217) 508-4108.

Representative Chris Miller serves constituents of Illinois’ 101st House District, which includes parts of Coles County as well as portions of Champaign, Douglas, and Vermilion Counties along the I-57 corridor.