To: Illinois State Legislators and Governor of Illinois

 
We, the undersigned citizens of Illinois, urgently call for the repeal of the SAFE-T Act (Safety, Accountability, Fairness, and Equity-Today), a law that has raised serious concerns about public safety, law enforcement effectiveness, and the rights of crime victims.

While criminal justice reform is important, the SAFE-T Act has introduced changes that jeopardize the safety of our communities, hinder law enforcement’s ability to do their jobs, and leave victims feeling unprotected. Specifically, we object to the following provisions:

• Elimination of Cash Bail – The law removes cash bail, allowing many offenders to be released back into the community while awaiting trial, increasing the risk of repeat offenses and endangering public safety.

• Restrictions on Law Enforcement – The Act imposes unrealistic use-of-force policies and unfunded mandates that make it more difficult for officers to protect themselves and the communities they serve.

• Increased Burden on Law-Abiding Citizens – The Act prioritizes the rights of offenders over the safety and security of victims and law-abiding residents, leading to increased crime rates and public fear.

 
Since its enactment, Illinois residents have experienced the negative effects of these policies, including a rise in criminal activity, police shortages, and growing concerns from both citizens and law enforcement professionals. Our justice system should protect victims and hold criminals accountable, not create loopholes that put communities at risk.

For example, in McHenry County, Illinois, data indicates a 30% increase in crimes committed by individuals on pretrial release compared to those under the previous cash bail system. Additionally, there has been a 280% rise in failures to appear in court and a 35% reduction in restitution paid to crime victims since the implementation of the SAFE-T Act. 

Furthermore, in Chicago, nearly 20% of felony arrests involve individuals already on pretrial release for other cases, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current system in preventing repeat offenses. 

Officer James, a veteran police officer, has dedicated 20 years of his life to protecting his community. But now, he finds himself frustrated and powerless. “We arrest violent offenders, but before we even finish our paperwork, they’re back out,” he says. “How can we keep our communities safe when our hands are tied?”

The SAFE-T Act was meant to create fairness in the justice system, but instead, it has left victims without justice, neighborhoods without safety, and police without the tools they need to protect us. We cannot sit by while our state descends into lawlessness.

That’s why we must take action NOW. Illinois lawmakers need to hear from the people they serve. We demand the repeal of the SAFE-T Act and the restoration of policies that prioritize public safety over politics.

We demand that the Illinois General Assembly and the Governor take immediate action to repeal the SAFE-T Act and replace it with legislation that prioritizes public safety, supports law enforcement, and ensures true justice for all Illinoisans.

Sign this petition today—for Sarah, for Officer James, and for every Illinoisan who deserves to feel safe in their own home.

By signing this petition, we urge our leaders to listen to the concerns of their constituents and make the necessary changes to protect our families, neighborhoods, and the future of our state. Sign and share this petition to make your voice heard!