Written by Senate Democratic Caucus Staff Monday, 08 August 2011 15:25
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Legislation co-sponsored by State Senator Maggie Crotty (D-Oak Forest) is designed to help veterans’ who are in long-term care facilities have an easier time voting in elections.
Senate Bill 98 would require election authorities to expand their in-person absentee voting operations at federally operated veterans’ homes, hospitals and other long-term care facilities. The bill applies to veterans’ hospitals and facilities in Chicago, Danville, Hines, Marion and North Chicago.
"Our veterans, regardless of where they reside, deserve various voting options, especially if they are in long-term care facilities," Senator Crotty said.
Currently, state-operated facilities provide in-person absentee voting for residents. The law did not, until now, provide the same options for those residing in federal facilities. With the signing of this law, veterans’ at both state-operated and federal-operated facilities have the same voting options.
"Those men and women who have fought for our country deserve to have their voices heard. This new law helps ensure that we hear their concerns and needs," Senator Crotty said.
Senator Crotty Menu
Assistant Majority Leader
19th District
Years served: 1997-2002 (House); 2003 - Present (Senate)
Committee assignments: Executive, Higher Education, Executive Appointments, State Government & Veterans Affairs, Environment, Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, Joint Committee on Government Reform
Biography: Full-time state legislator; born in Chicago; graduate, Mercy High School; General Excellence Award, Illinois State Crime Commission, 2000; Legislator of the Year, Illinois Association of Park Districts, 2000; Friend of Taxpayers Award, National Taxpayers United of Illinois, 1999; Outstanding Freshman Legislator, Illinois Health Care Association, 1997; has three children.