SPRINGFIELD— County coroners and local medical examiners could potentially receive federal assistance in identifying missing persons after a measure sponsored by State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) passed the Senate on Wednesday.

“When you hear pleas from a family for help, we should be using all the tools at our disposal to bring them the support that they need to help find or identify their loved ones,” said Sims. “Unfortunately, some smaller counties and police departments do not have access to the same technology and resources as larger cities, and this bill will help with that.”

Senate Bill 3932 would require a coroner or medical examiner with custody of human remains that are not identified within 72 hours of discovery to immediately notify the Federal Bureau of Investigation for assistance in identification.

The legislation was filed to address the devastating death of Jelani Day, a 25-year-old graduate student at Illinois State University. Day was reported missing on Aug. 24, 2021, discovered on Sept. 4, 2021 and wasn’t identified by the LaSalle County coroner until Sept. 24, 2021.

“Jelani lived a beautiful life,” said Carmen Bolden Day, the ISU graduate student’s mother. “While he was here with us he made a difference and even in his absence he will continue to impact many people. I am so grateful for Senator Sims and this initiative. My son will be remembered and I will not let his name go in vain. ”

Senate Bill 3932 passed the Senate on Wednesday

 SPRINGFIELD—State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) moved legislation to establish the Safe 2 Help Program, a hotline designed to receive reports from the public regarding potential self-harm or criminal acts directed at schools, students or school employees.

“Our number one job is to protect our state’s most vulnerable populations,” said Sims. “This program was introduced to keep our children and schools safe while providing help to those who are battling mental illness.”

Senate Bill 3936, an initiative of Illinois State Police, would require the agency to work collaboratively with the Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois State Board of Education and Department of Children and Family Services to provide support resources to students and teachers to prevent potential crisis situations.

“We cannot wait for another tragic event to happen in our schools,” said Sims. “This is a key step in the intervention process that will not only protect our students from planned attacks but will also help develop police-community relations.”  

Senate Bill 3936 passed the Senate Education Committee and goes before the full Senate for further consideration.

 SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) released the following statement regarding the death of Thornton Township Supervisor, Frank Zuccarelli:

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of my friend, Frank Zuccarelli, the Thornton Township Supervisor and Committeeperson.”

“A devoted public servant for more than 40 years, Frank’s infectious laugh, smile and commitment to Thornton Township, South Suburban College and the Southland area will be deeply missed.” 

“My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to his family and the Thornton Township family he loved so much. Z-Team-Forever.”