CHICAGO – Thursday marks two years since the Pretrial Fairness Act was implemented, leading to a fairer and more just criminal legal system – and in turn, safer communities. State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement to highlight the historic legislation: 

“The results speak for themselves: our communities are safer, our justice system is more equitable, and we have proven that safety is achieved through fairness rather than the size of someone's bank account.

“Contrary to the fear-mongering predictions of critics, both violent and property crimes have decreased since we ended cash bail, and the two-year re-arrest rate for individuals released pretrial has improved. Most importantly, it has been transformative in addressing the disproportionate impact of the cash bail system on communities of color and low-income families. For too long, our two-tiered justice system allowed wealth to determine freedom. Today, Illinois operates under the principle that liberty should not depend on one's ability to pay.

“The Pretrial Fairness Act represents what is possible when we choose courage over fear, evidence over rhetoric and justice over the status quo. After two years of implementation, one thing is clear: when we assess risk rather than riches, everyone benefits – survivors, families, defendants, and most importantly, our communities.

“The success of the past two years is the foundation for continued progress toward a more just Illinois.”

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.”

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."

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing mistakes can turn into learning opportunities, State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. worked across the aisle to pass a measure 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’ measure, participants who complete the First Time Weapons Offense Diversion Program could 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 would 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 passed the Senate with bipartisan support Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.