New Law Puts Illinois at Forefront of Police Reforms

Excerpt:

SPRINGFIELD — From a professional police officer’s point of view, Illinois new legislation to improve policing and strengthen community trust is a win, said Rep. John Cabello.

Cabello, a Rockford police detective on leave while he serves in the General Assembly, was among the lead negotiators of the bill, which Gov. Bruce Rauner signed into law Wednesday.

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle, the governor, police groups and the American Civil Liberties Union endorsed the legislation, with many calling it a blueprint for states to follow.

Cabello said he thinks the bill does a good job of building the police-community relationship and makings sure police officers are accountable while respecting the need for officer safety.

“Police work nowadays is nowhere near where it was even when I started 20 years ago,” said Cabello, R-Machesney Park.

While the bill might not thrill everyone, it is strong and does represent real progress as a result of good-faith negotiating, he said.

The lead taken by police groups also encouraged proponents including Cabello, Rep. John Anthony, R-Plainfield, and Rep. Elgie Sims Jr., D-Chicago.

“I think this bill is colorblind,” Sims said. “It addresses the delivery of police services.”

You can read the rest of this story and learn what else the measure does at Reboot Illinois-->