|
The meeting comes after three teenagers were shot and killed
last weekend in the heart of the city. According to Chicago
police statistics, shootings are up 14% in the city over the
past four years.
State Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, introduced Senate Bill 2535,
which he says would give young people support to stay away from
crime.
"We have seen in our communities the lack of resources for young
people," Sims said. "What we are trying to do is create a
pathway for those resources to be distributed to communities."
Sims said his priorities during the spring session will be
focused on limiting crime.
"My commitment to investing in public safety is one of my
paramount focuses here in the General Assembly," Sims said.
Republicans questioned the need for the measure and the costs
involved.
"I guess I do not understand why this is needed," said state
Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro. "Do we not already have that?
Is there overlap, or is that we just totally have nothing."
Sims said he is not currently asking for any taxpayer funds to
be given to his legislation but did not shut down the
possibility of any future appropriations.
Sims' measure advanced out of committee and is awaiting further
action.
|
