East Central Reporter

Chris Miller, the state representative for Illinois House District 101, said House Democrats supported a failed bill that would have allowed convicted murderers and rapists under 21 to seek parole and resentencing. He emphasized the importance of enforcing existing laws and holding criminals accountable.

"Last week, the House Democrats failed to garner the 60 votes necessary to pass a bill that would grant convicted murderers and rapists under the age of 21 the possibility of parole and resentencing," said Chris G. Miller, State Representative for 101st District (R), according to Facebook. "The pro-criminal party works hard to reduce public safety in our communities. Here's a thought- let police do their job and hold criminals accountable for their actions. We don't need to water down criminal behavior, we need to enforce current laws that protect Illinois citizens!"

Miller's comments came in response to an April 11 article from the Chicago Tribune, which reported on the failure of Democrats to pass a bill offering resentencing options for individuals convicted of crimes committed before age 21. The bill, supported by Restore Justice, had passed through the House Restorative Justice and Public Safety Committee. Restore Justice issued a statement praising legislators "committed to taking on important issues with integrity and being open to debate," according to the Tribune. The measure was defeated in a narrow 51-49 vote, falling short by 11 votes, with some Democrats either voting against it or abstaining.

Screenshot of State Representative Chris Miller's April 15 Facebook post | State Representative Chris Miller's Facebook page

House Bill 3332 proposed allowing individuals who served ten years or more for crimes committed before age 21 to be eligible for a sentencing review, excluding those convicted of first-degree murder. Those convicted of first-degree murder before age 21 would have been eligible after serving twenty years unless sentenced to natural life. If enacted, the bill would have taken effect immediately, as said on a website dedicated to the legislation. State Representative Theresa Mah filed the bill on February 7, 2025. It underwent a second reading on March 26 and was ultimately voted down during a third reading on April 10.

According to Center Square, Mah acknowledged that the bill included individuals convicted of crimes against children. Additionally, just over one thousand inmates would have been immediately affected by the legislation.

Chris Miller is an Illinois native who was first elected to the Illinois State House of Representatives in 2019. A third-generation cattle farmer and grain operator in Hindsboro, Miller holds an associate degree in agriculture from Lake Land College and a Bachelor of Science in Education.