“We have to send the message that such disrespectful and dangerous behavior, especially during periods of mourning, has no place in our communities.” – Sen. Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD – A topic that has captured the attention of Illinois media and the General Assembly is that of reckless driving during gang funerals.

To respond to the disquieting issue, State Senator Emil Jones (D-Chicago) spoke out this week on legislation he is chief co-sponsoring providing for action to be taken against reckless driving during the funerals of gang members.

“Throughout my legislative career, I have consistently advocated for gang and violence prevention, a problem rampant across Chicago but particularly prevalent in the South Side communities I represent,” Jones said. “That’s why this measure has special significance for me, because this is going to allow us to accomplish curbing these gang demonstrations and their disruption of peace during funeral observances presenting unfair risks to our communities.”

Last September, the Chicago Tribune offered a telling exposé of this issue, detailing the irresponsible weaving in and out of traffic lanes, blaring music and gang signs/gestures thrown out of car windows accompanying memorials at Mount Hope Cemetery (which often serves as the site of funerals for deceased gang members).

Residents of the South Side communities of Mount Greenwood and Beverly have been particularly vocal in expressing their concern for public safety and frustration with these frequent rowdy memorials for late gang members. 

Senate Bill 2154 allows municipalities to adopt procedures and regulations for the impoundment of vehicles driven recklessly while part of a funeral procession and/or in such a way that impedes a funeral procession.

“Being able to not just provide a ticket but tow the vehicles of mourners driving irresponsibly while promoting gang activity or paraphernalia during funerals is of the utmost importance for our public’s safety,” Jones said. “We have to send the message that such disrespectful and dangerous behavior, especially during periods of mourning, has no place in our communities.”

SB 2154 passed the Senate on Wednesday and awaits further consideration by the Illinois House. 

“This measure addresses a significant void we need to fill.” -  Senator Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Emil Jones III (D–Chicago) saw his bill targeted toward improvement of Illinois law addressing labor relations pass the Senate last Friday. 

“This measure addresses a significant void we need to fill,” Jones said. “Currently there are no substantial regulations to deal with the disciplinary action of suspension and dismissals of selected mediators and the consequent costs.”   

Senate Bill 1830 clarifies that the Illinois Labor Relations Board shall be authorized but not obligated to establish compensation levels and suspension or dismissal procedures of mediators chosen by state and local panels.

The legislation in no way changes the manner in which mediation occurs or the way in which mediators are chosen by the parties involved in a mediation.  

“I am proud of the progress seen today with respect to this measure,” Jones said, “I hope in the future we continue to see favorable outcomes in regards to this legislation as it is debated in the House.”

SB 1830 passed with a vote of 51-0-0 and now awaits the consideration of the Illinois House. 

“This measure is common sense in a lot of ways, as it not only promotes being environmentally friendly, but also simplicity, efficiency and keeping up with as well utilizing the advantages our digital age.” – Sen. Emil Jones III

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III (D–Chicago) passed legislation last week that will aid municipalities to get in line with current technology.

Jones’ bill allows for technical submissions prepared using a computer to also computer-generate the seal, signature, current date and date of license expiration. Current Illinois law does not allow the use of electronic signatures in any permitting, licensing or other regulatory function.

“This measure is common sense in a lot of ways, as it not only promotes being environmentally friendly, but also simplicity, efficiency and keeping up with as well utilizing the advantages of our digital age,” Jones said. “I am happy I was able to cooperate with my fellow Senators in getting this legislation passed and look forward to similar outcomes in the House.”

SB 1826 passed the Senate last Friday with a vote of 51-0-0 and now awaits the further consideration of the Illinois House.