Abolition of the Death Penalty becomes law in Illinois
Today, Governor Quinn signed into law Senate Bill 3539 to abolish the death penalty in Illinois. The Catholic Conference of Illinois commends the Governor on his approval of this legislation and thanks all the fellow advocates and Illinois lawmakers who have supported the repeal of the death penalty in Illinois.
Click here for the full statement on the signing of SB 3539 into law.
Catholic Bishops of Illinois urge Governor to sign Senate Bill 3539 to abolish the death penalty
Senate Bill 3539, legislation to abolish the death penalty in Illinois, is awaiting consideration by the Governor. The Catholic Bishops of Illinois urge the Governor to sign this bill.
Illinois House passes SB 3539, abolition of the death penalty
The Illinois House has passed Senate Bill 3539 to abolish the death penalty in Illinois. CCI commends the House on this historic vote. The bill next goes to the Illinois Senate. We urge the Senate to also vote to pass this important legislation.
Click here for our full statement on the House vote.
Statement on passage of Senate Bill 1716 (civil unions)
The Catholic Conference of Illinois (CCI) has issued a statement on the passage of Senate Bill 1716 (Civil Unions), expressing regret for the General Assembly's passage of the bill.
Testimony before Illinois House committee on abolition of the death penalty
On November 30, Senate Bill 3539, as amended, passed out of a House committee. CCI Executive Director Bob Gilligan provided testimony to the committee in support of the bill to abolish the death penalty. For the full testimony, click here. PDF