State Rep. Maurice West

Illinois lawmakers passed sweeping changes to the state’s criminal justice system.  

The Illinois House followed the state Senate to approve a stripped down set of reforms from the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus. It includes changes to police certification, the use of force and the cash bail system. The bill now goes to Governor J.B. Pritzker.

The original package drew early opposition from members of law enforcement including Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana. 

The black community is gasping for air. And when State Rep. Maurice West of Rockford says that, he means it literally, as in the killing of George Floyd during an encounter with Minneapolis police.

But he’s also talking about systemic issues disproportionately hurting black people. That includes problems in criminal justice, but also education and health.

Governor J.B. Pritzker was in Rockford on Friday with Mayor Tom McNamara, State Sen. Steve Stadelman, and State Rep. Maurice West. The Democrats came together to celebrate the progress of the $45 billion capital plan known as Rebuild Illinois.

Money from the plan is being used to improve statewide infrastructure like roads, bridges, education and broadband internet services. The governor also said that part of the money will go toward a much anticipated train project.

"We're dedicating $275 million to establish passenger rail service between Rockford and Chicago."