Diversion program graduates now have pathway to FOID card thanks to Sims

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing mistakes can turn into learning opportunities, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. worked across the aisle to lead a new law to allow low-level, first-time weapon offenders to apply for a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card upon completing a diversion program.

“We are taking a balanced approach to recognize people can learn from their past mistakes and deserve a second chance,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Diversion programs acknowledge rehabilitation while ensuring existing safeguards remain firmly in place.”

Under Sims’ law, participants who complete the First Time Weapons Offense Diversion Program cab apply for a FOID card after receiving a court order demonstrating successful program completion – so long as they meet all other existing eligibility requirements. The program will only be for individuals charged with a Class 4 felony – the lowest class felony charge for weapons.

“Many people in diversion programs are young adults who deserve a second chance to move forward,” said Sims. “Pathways to restoration are vital to rebuilding lives and build stronger communities.”  

Senate Bill 1899 was signed into law Friday.

Sims: The SAFE-T Act is based on risk—not riches

CHICAGO – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. – the lead sponsor of the SAFE-T Act – released the following statement after the president falsely attacked Illinois’ nation-leading measure to end cash bail:

“The president’s misguided attacks on Illinois’ elimination of cash bail are par for the course. When he doesn’t want to answer for his administration’s mounting failures, he reverts to his usual playbook: distraction, denial, and diversion.

Illinois is seeing positive results. According to the Illinois State Police, both violent and property crimes have decreased since the end of cash bail. The nonpartisan Brennan Center for Justice also found no statistically significant link between bail reform and crime rates in its analysis of 33 cities, both with and without such reforms.

The SAFE-T Act and the Pretrial Fairness Act made Illinois the first state to fully eliminate the use of money to decide who stays in jail and who walks free before trial. This system is based on risk—not riches. Judges now consider actual threats to public safety and the likelihood of flight, not the size of someone’s bank account.

Let’s be clear: under the new system, no one charged with a serious violent crime—like murder—can simply walk free. That was the case under the cash bail system, where those with money could buy their freedom, regardless of the danger they posed to the public. There are countless examples of violent offenders paying bail and walking free under the old model—something the president conveniently ignores.

What the president wants is a justice system that favors the wealthy. That’s exactly the kind of system that has long failed our communities and allowed the rich to evade consequences. It’s no surprise from someone who also wants to criminalize poverty and homelessness.

In Illinois, we reject that approach. We believe public safety should not be sold to the highest bidder. The SAFE-T Act represents true criminal justice reform—one based on accountability and evidence, not personal wealth.

I urge the president to read the law before spreading dangerous and false narratives.”

Sims: FY 26 budget invests in the whole person

CHICAGO – Majority Caucus Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the Fiscal Year 2026 budget was signed into law:

“The budget signed today is one that confronts the challenges before us with the same principled approach that guided our recovery: true fiscal responsibility, addressing reality head-on, and not postponing difficult decisions for future years.

Our unwavering commitment to making Illinois not just a place to live, but a place where families thrive, businesses flourish, and communities prosper is apparent in the budget. We have invested in the whole person, recognizing that our state's strength lies in the collective success of all Illinoisans.

The Fiscal Year 2026 budget serves today's needs while building tomorrow's opportunities."

Sims launches summer reading program

CHICAGO – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“Becoming a stronger reader will benefit kids in school and in life for years to come,” said Sims (D-Chicago). “Keeping young minds active during summer break can help maintain critical literacy skills when school isn’t in session.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Sims’ office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate from Sims.

To participate, people can pick up a form at a local library, call Sims’ office at 773-933-7715 to request a form by mail or you may download and print a pdf of the form here. People can also fill out the form virtually by clicking here.

Sims urges interested residents to call his office with any additional questions.