SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker outlined proposals Tuesday for improving the criminal justice system in Illinois.
The proposals, stemming from a commission headed by Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton at work since January, include eliminating cash bail and determining detention based on a defendant’s threat to public safety.
Another plan would provide more health care and mental health treatment to divert low-level drug offenders from prison. Additionally, long prison sentences would be shorted by beefed-up rehabilitation programs.
Pritzker credited the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus with advancing the agenda for several years. The legislature returns in November.