The Illinois state legislators support House Bill 4409, a law proposing to switch the term “offender” to “justice impacted individual”. This bill, already given a green light by the Illinois State Senate, is now on its way to Governor J.B Pritzker’s desk. The aim is to change how those involved in the criminal justice system are referred in the state.

“New Words”

The proposed law requests a change of all mentions of “offenders” to “justice impacted individuals” in state documents. The strategy is a part of larger efforts to show compassion for people who have had runins with the criminal justice system and aid their return into society. This move is led by democratic lawmakers like Representatives Kelly M. Cassidy and Lindsey LaPointe and Senators Robert Peters, Mike Simmons, and Adriane Johnson.

“Change Isn’t Cheap”

Yet not all approve this modification. Republican State Senator Terri Bryant strongly objected during a meeting over the high costs tied to updating state papers with new words.”We keep changing names for those who have committed crimes many times over causing every agency having to adjust their documents,” stated Bryant. “It costs thousands within jus our Department of Corrections due to numerous name alterations.”

“Adult Redeploy Illinois Program Expansion”

Beyond name change, House Bill 4409 plans an expansion of Adult Redeploy Illinois (ARI) Oversight Board. They propose increased members from departments like Illinois Department of Corrections, Human Services and adult probation departments in Sangamon and Cook County. Lastly, two persons involved in ARI system will be added.

State Senator Robert Peters underscores the value of these additions. “A marked step forward is this expansion in our continuous endeavors supporting equality and effectiveness inside the Adult Redeploy Illinois program,” cited Peters. “The diversified board and increased funding will help addressing challenges faced within the ARI system.”

“Worries from Republicans and Victim Advocacy”

Republicans expressed worries that the name change decreases empathy towards violent crime victims and reduces focus on accountability. State Senator Steve McClure argues that focusing on renaming diverts from holding people accountable for their actions. “There is this rush to neglect all onus for people committing crimes,” said McClure. “If a person plans to tread on right path, they must know their wrongs.”

McClure also criticized larger issues of crime in Illinois, including increases in drug smuggling into prisons and overall crime rates. “Crime is up 38% year-to-date since 2019. Crime is everywhere,” he mentioned.

“Supporters of The Law”

Despite opposition, supporters of the law argue it favors rehabilitation. State Senator Robert Peters requested colleagues to consider benefits of expanding the ARI program over mere word changes. Those supporting believe “justice impacted individual” can decrease negative views and aid return of people into society. State Representative Kelly Cassidy, sponsor of bill stated, “People shouldn’t be judged by their worst day.”

“Cost Concerns”

The financial burden of implementing name change remains a major argument point. Senator Bryant highlights significant costs associated with updating documents by various state agencies.

“Waiting for Governor’s Approval”

House Bill 4409 was given go-ahead by Illinois State Senate with a 3420 vote, awaiting next move from Governor J.B. Pritzker. It’s at his discretion if Illinois will use “justice impacted individual “officially alongside proposed expansions to ARI program.

“Final Message”

House Bill 4409 debate sheds light on larger discussion surrounding terminology, accountability and rehabilitation in criminal justice system. Supporters claim “justice impacted individual” term supports dignity and reintegration, while opposers show concerns with costs allied and potential impacts on victim advocacy. As bill lands up at Governor Pritzker’s desk, Illinois is waiting for a decision that may change state’s approach toward criminal justice words and reforms.