National Police Week has always carried deep meaning for me, but this year feels especially heavy.
As a police officer, I know the sacrifice that comes with putting on the uniform. Behind every badge is a person who made the decision to serve others, even in dangerous and uncertain moments. It means long hours, missed holidays, difficult calls, and families who carry the weight of that responsibility alongside us every single day.
This year, many of us across Illinois are still mourning the loss of Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew, who was killed in the line of duty on April 25. His death hit the law enforcement community hard. It was a painful reminder of the risks officers face every time they answer a call.
During National Police Week, I’ve spent time reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who continue serving our communities, as well as the fallen heroes we will never forget.
Earlier this week, I was honored to present and pass HR0718 on the House Floor, officially declaring June 2026 as Fallen First Responders Month in Illinois. As someone who has worn the badge, this resolution was deeply personal to me. We remembered Officer John Bartholomew, firefighter Michael Altman, Officer Krystal Rivera, Captain Myers, and every first responder who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
I also had the privilege of sitting down with Captain Myers’ family earlier this week. Their strength, love, and resilience were powerful reminders that when someone chooses a life of service, their family serves too. Spouses, children, parents, and loved ones carry that burden every day alongside them.
Throughout National Police Week, communities across Illinois and the nation are holding memorials, vigils, and ceremonies to honor our fallen officers and support those still serving. I hope we never lose sight of the sacrifices these men and women make to keep our communities safe.
Their service will never be forgotten.
AFFI Legislative Conference
I was honored to speak last week at the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois Legislative Conference in Springfield.
We had important conversations about supporting the men and women who serve our communities every day, including addressing PFAS exposure, fighting for a Tier 2 pension fix, and strengthening protections for first responders through legislation like HB5004.
As a member of the House Police & Fire Committee and a law enforcement officer, these issues are personal to me. I’ll continue working alongside our firefighters, paramedics, and first responders to make sure their voices are heard in Springfield.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to be part of the conference and for all you do to keep our communities safe.
Property Tax Relief Package
Illinois families are already dealing with higher costs everywhere they turn, and rising property taxes are making it even harder for many homeowners to stay ahead. I’ve heard from families across our communities who are frustrated, stretched thin, and worried about what their next tax bill will look like.
That’s why I’m co-sponsoring a legislative package focused on real property tax relief, greater transparency, and giving taxpayers a stronger voice. The package includes measures to provide direct relief for homeowners, require voter approval before tax increases, strengthen Truth in Taxation laws, reduce unnecessary layers of government, and reinvest certain funds into lowering the property tax burden.
Families deserve solutions that respect taxpayers and help keep Illinois affordable for working families.
C3 Artisans Pop-Up
My office was proud to attend the C3 Artisans pop-up event supporting the incredible students in the special needs program.
The creativity, hard work, and talent on display were truly inspiring. Every purchase made at the pop-up goes directly back into the program to help provide more opportunities and resources for these students.
Programs like C3 Artisans make a real difference by helping students build confidence, develop valuable skills, and showcase their abilities to the community. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible and to the students who shared their amazing work with us.
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