SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Celina Villanueva’s new law will allow those who plead guilty to a possession charge a second chance.

“Supporting first-time offenders of possession to reintegrate into society with the tools they need to succeed is essential,” said Villanueva (D-Chicago). “By giving grace to first-time offenders we can further reduce the cycle of recidivism in our communities.”

This law protects individuals who plead guilty to a methamphetamine, controlled substances, cannabis, or gun possession charge in exchange for diversion into a probation program with the promise that a felony will not be included on their record upon successful completion of the program. The law is necessary because background checks often misinterpret diversion into special probation programs as a “conviction.”

Previously, a person who successfully completed a probation program would have their sentence or conviction vacated. This clean record applied while the person was enrolled in the program as well as for those who successfully complete the program.

“When we impose more severe penalties on first-time offenders we see a disproportionate effect on individuals from marginalized communities,” said Villanueva. “This law allows us to acknowledge the complexities of individual circumstances and give them the tools and resources to prevent future offenses rather than limiting their options by permanently tarnishing their record.”

House Bill 5285 was signed into law Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2025.

CHICAGO – In response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling upholding a federal law restricting firearm possession for domestic violence abusers, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“I am encouraged by today’s Supreme Court ruling and hope it guides us moving forward on how to better protect victims of gun violence.”

“Domestic violence situations can escalate quickly when firearms are involved, and these restrictions are a vital component in the effort to reduce and prevent domestic violence-related homicides. There is still more work to do when it comes to protecting survivors and their families in Illinois, but I am glad to see these restrictions upheld at the federal level. I am hopeful that this will continue, on a state level, for us to move forward with Karina’s Law.”

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the Biden administration’s executive action to allow certain undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“The Biden Administration’s action is a significant step in the right direction for many undocumented family members – affirming our commitment to family unity, justice and compassion. For too long, our immigration system has imposed unnecessary hardships on families, often forcing them into the shadows or tearing them apart. This new policy will provide relief by offering a pathway to stability and security. It recognizes that family is the cornerstone of our society and that keeping families together strengthens our communities.

“Considering that this executive power can be challenged and even ended by a different administration, there is a lot more that needs to be done to provide permanent protections for undocumented communities that have contributed to this country for decades.

“Today’s action is a great first step, but we must build on this progress and enact comprehensive reforms that honor our nation's history as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which supports funding for a child tax credit, reproductive health care, and domestic violence resources:

“This budget season was particularly difficult without American Rescue Plan Act dollars to help fund crucial state programs. We fought hard for programs that represent the best of what Illinois has to offer. We will continue fighting as long as it takes for underrepresented communities to get the resources they need.

“With that being said, I am pleased that we were able to continue to prioritize reproductive health care by investing into clinics, hotlines, training programs, and consultations. We are also seeing additional funding for domestic violence assistance.

“We have further maintained supporting underrepresented communities by making an increase investment to the child tax credit. These investments ensure that Illinois continues to provide additional support to communities in need.”