New legislation includes law requiring background checks on nursing home residents         

[MAY 13, 2006]  SPRINGFIELD -- On Wednesday, Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich signed House Bill 4785, sponsored by Rep. James Brosnahan, D-Evergreen Park, and Sen. Edward Maloney, D-Chicago, which requires nursing homes to conduct background checks on all residents.

If offenders are identified, including registered sex offenders and those convicted of homicide, a Criminal History Analysis Report will be prepared. The report will ensure that appropriate measures are taken to make sure all residents are safe. Sex offenders and those that are a significant risk to others would be required to have their own rooms.

The legislation is effective immediately.

The governor also took action on the following bills:

House Bill 4313

Concerning: State government

Description: Amends the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity may provide information to the public on energy-efficient appliances by a link to the Energy Star website or by compiling Energy Star program information on the department's website.

Action: Approved

Effective: Immediately

Senate Bill 2271

Concerning: Wildlife

Description: Amends the Wildlife Code. Makes certain changes regarding the issuance of wild turkey hunting permits.
Action: Approved

Effective: Immediately

Senate Bill 3062

Concerning: Regulation

Description: Amends the Regulatory Sunset Act. Changes the repeal date of the Structural Pest Control Act from Jan. 1, 2007 to Jan. 1, 2008.

Action: Approved

Effective: Immediately

[News release from the governor's office]