Rockford Sun

In a May 12 Facebook post, Rep. Andrew Chesney (R-Freeport) pointed out that even though it might not seem like it, the Illinois General Assembly does work together to get things done.

"While it might not seem to be the case, not everything that occurs in our state’s Capitol is contentious. Republican and Democrat lawmakers came together this year to address, among other issues, the teacher shortage, veteran care, and nursing home reform,” Chesney posted.

He shared a link to a column he wrote, which included a list of all the things that the Illinois General Assembly had accomplished in a bipartisan manner during the session. That included a focus on creating accountability within Illinois' veterans' homes - with the Veterans' Accountability Unit. Working independently of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the unit is tasked with soliciting, reviewing, and addressing complaints from residents of Illinois’ veteran homes and their families, as well as from visitors, vendors, contractors, and department staff. Any complaints, allegations, and incidents uncovered by the Veterans Accountability Unit will be reported to the Office of the Executive Inspector General for further action.

The General Assembly also worked together to pass laws aimed at helping the state's teachers, and to resolve the educator shortage that is plaguing Illinois and much of the country. Chesney wrote about increasing the number of days substitute teachers can work in classrooms through SB 3893, and allowing a short-term substitute to spend more time in a district if necessary, up to 15 consecutive days, thanks to SB 3907. Legislators also waived fees for short term substitutes in a public health emergency, and passed HB 4798 to allow qualified college students in an approved educator preparation program in the State of Illinois who have earned at least 90 credit hours to be eligible to substitute teach.

Finally, he highlighted House Bill 246, which regulates nursing home funding, with incentives to enhance staffing levels and provide more direct care to residents.