"A victim of domestic violence should feel confident that the justice system is looking out for the best interests of the community," said Hutchinson. "If prisoners who commit aggravated domestic battery are being released after completing only 50 percent of their given sentence, our neighborhoods and streets are the ones paying the price."

A measure to protect Illinois’ children was also recently signed by Governor Quinn. House Bill 4873 will expand the list of offenses that disqualify one from obtaining a school bus permit or a commercial driver’s license.

"Expanding the list of disqualifying offenses for bus drivers ensures our children are in safe hands while traveling to and from school," said Hutchinson. "Bus drivers have the responsibility of guaranteeing children’s safety and well-being for a substantial part of the school day. This legislation will make certain these caregivers are upstanding citizens dedicated to the safety and protection of our children."

Legislation aimed at protecting those in uniform was also recently signed by Governor Quinn. House Bill 6101 raises the penalty for transmitting a false 911 call to a Class 4 felony. This legislation was prompted by an incident in Senator Hutchinson’s district, in which a false 911 call was made and an officer responding to the call was involved in an accident that left him paralyzed.

"Emergency personnel have to put their lives on the line every day of the week," said Hutchinson. "Actions such as making false 911 reports cannot be tolerated, as the potential for accidents and injuries are simply too high."