As we prepare for Thanksgiving with our families, I want to take a moment to share updates from Springfield and issues impacting our district. From safety in our correctional facilities to protecting hunters’ rights and addressing budget challenges, I’m working hard to represent your concerns at the Capitol.
In this newsletter, you’ll find highlights from the recent veto session, a look ahead to upcoming legislative battles, and some valuable state resources that may benefit you or your family.
Veto Session Wrap-Up and Lame Duck Session Preview
The recent veto session was quiet, with few legislative actions taken. However, critical issues have been punted to the lame-duck session in January, a time notorious for rushed legislation. I’ll remain vigilant during this session, ensuring any proposals are thoroughly vetted and that your voice is heard in every debate. Illinois families need responsible governance, not policies that jeopardize our economy or safety.
One significant concern for me remains the fiscal irresponsibility of the current administration. With the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget projecting a $3.2 billion budget deficit for FY26, it’s clear we need to turn this financial ship around. Stagnant revenues and skyrocketing expenditures cannot continue. I’ll fight for a sustainable, transparent budget that reflects the values and priorities of our communities.
Addressing Safety Concerns at Correctional Facilities
Safety in our correctional facilities is personal for me because it impacts our families, neighbors, and communities. At a recent press conference, I joined Representatives Charlie Meier and Bill Hauter to address the growing number of drug exposure incidents in Illinois correctional facilities, including Menard Correctional Center in our district. These incidents are alarming, with substances like synthetic cannabinoids, fentanyl, and insecticides entering prisons through the mail and causing severe health issues for staff and inmates.
We’re calling for immediate action, including implementing electronic mail scanning, to prevent dangerous substances from entering these facilities. The Illinois Department of Corrections must prioritize transparency and accountability to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
To read more and to watch the press conference in its entirety, click here: Rep. Friess Joins Colleagues in Calling for Action on Drug Exposure in Illinois Prisons (w/Video) – David Friess
Atty. Gen. Raoul asks appellate court to stay federal ruling striking down firearms ban
The decision by federal District Judge Stephen McGlynn found that the so-called “Protect Illinois Communities Act,” a January 2023 law that purports to ban almost all private-sector possessions of certain groups of firearms and ammunition supplies in Illinois, is unconstitutional. The 168-page decision struck down the law in its entirety, citing various case judgements from the United State Supreme Court and other courts that draw broad boundaries around the “right to bear arms” enshrined in the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
As with all federal district court decisions in Illinois, the decision can be appealed to the Seventh Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals, the Chicago-based federal appellate court. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, a Democrat, has filed an appeal. His appeal supports the law and opposes the judicial decision. As a move affiliated with the overall appeals process, the attorney general has also asked that the district court’s permanent injunction against the enforceability of the Protect Illinois Communities Act be stayed. If the appellate court grants the stay, the controversial law will remain in place, for now.
Criticisms of the new Illinois gun ban are widespread. Lawmakers who voted “no” against the new law, which included most Illinois House Republicans, pointed out that the definitions of banned firearms and ammunitions supplies set forth in the new law are vague and potentially unenforceable. They also, like Judge McGlynn, point towards the explicit right to bear arms contained in the federal Bill of Rights, which outranks all State laws.
Firearm Deer Hunting Season Continues
Deer hunting in Southern Illinois is a way of life for many of us. The second and third firearm deer hunting seasons are coming up on December 5-8 and December 26-29. As hunters head into the field, I encourage everyone to prioritize safety and follow state regulations.
Hunters must wear solid blaze orange or pink for visibility, carry the proper permits, and adhere to a one-deer bag limit. If you’re hunting in a county with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance, please report your harvest by 10 p.m. the same day by calling 1-866-IL-CHECK or using the online portal. Testing helps monitor the spread of this disease, ensuring a healthier deer population for future generations.
Happy Hunting!
Happy Thanksgiving!
As we approach the holidays, I remain committed to standing up for your safety, your financial well-being, and the values that make our district strong. Thank you for the trust you place in me to serve as your voice in Springfield.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 618-282-7284 if you have any concerns or need assistance with state resources. Together, we can face whatever challenges come our way and continue building a brighter future for Southern Illinois.
Have a blessed Thanksgiving with you family!