SPRINGFIELD – Freight trains in Illinois would be required to be operated by a crew of at least two people under a safety proposal introduced by State Senator Terry Link (D-Indian Creek) that was discussed today in the Senate Transportation Committee.

“Incidents across the country continue to highlight the importance of two-person crews on freight trains,” Link said. “It is simply a matter of public safety. Two-person crews can react more efficiently to mechanical failures or equipment malfunctions and can potentially save lives in a serious situation.”

Link’s proposal, contained in Senate Bill 24, would require freight trains to be operated by a crew of at least two individuals until a federal rule or law is adopted that addresses how many crew members should operate a freight train.

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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Terry Link (D-Indian Creek) issued the following statement this afternoon after attending Gov. Pritzker’s budget address in Springfield:

“For too long in Illinois, governors have offered budget gimmicks and short-term band aids without addressing the real fiscal challenges we face. I commend the governor for crafting a budget plan that offers a realistic approach to solving the issues facing Illinois.

“The governor’s plan to encourage reusable bag use by instituting a plastic bag tax as well as his inclusion of sports betting in his budget package are two key issues that I have worked on in the Senate that I look forward to discussing further with my colleagues in the coming weeks and months.”

SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Majority Leader Terry Link (D-Indian Creek) led the Senate today in approving Carol M. Pope as new Legislative Inspector General, a post responsible for investigating complaints made against lawmakers and legislative employees.

“Judge Carol Pope has all of the necessary experience and background to be an excellent Legislative Inspector General,” Link said. “It is vitally important that allegations of misconduct are investigated and properly handled. I have the upmost trust that Judge Pope will live up to those expectations.”

Judge Pope was recommended unanimously by the Illinois Legislative Ethics Commission in December to fill the post full time after Julie Porter was appointed to serve as temporary inspector general until a permanent appointment was made.

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SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Majority Leader Terry Link (D-Indian Creek) released the following statement this afternoon after voting to increase Illinois’ minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2025:

“Working families haven’t seen a raise in Illinois since 2010, while costs for housing, child care and food have only continued to increase. The compromise plan I supported today gradually increases wages while providing a key tax refund for small businesses.

“For thousands of Illinois families struggling to get by, this increase will provide more security and stability in their everyday lives.”

Senate Bill 1 passed on a 39-18 vote and now heads to the Illinois House for further debate.