Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

UPDATE: Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation Banning Assault Weapons and Sale of High-Capacity Magazines

 

Original release, Jan 6, 2023
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.
— After months of negotiation and advocacy, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, helped pass the Protect Illinois Communities Act Tuesday. The bill now heads to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s desk for signature.

“Gun violence touches all corners of our state, from urban centers to rural towns and everywhere in between. For far too long, we’ve let these weapons of war roam our streets and enact unspeakable violence against innocent people,” Hirschauer said. “Today, the Illinois General Assembly said no more. No more senseless violence. No more assault weapons. Though this ban cannot bring back those whose lives were lost to gun violence, the bill we passed today will undoubtedly save many lives and prevent unspeakable tragedy for generations to come,”

The Protect Illinois Communities Act is the culmination of months of negotiation among advocates, survivor groups, the Senate and the Governor. The proposal will ban the sale of weapons such as assault rifles, high-capacity magazines, and rapid-fire modifications that make semiautomatic weapons function like automatic weapons. The bill also creates a state police anti-trafficking unit to collaborate with federal law enforcement agencies to combat the flow of illegal guns across state lines, and expands and strengthens Illinois’ red flag law.

“I am immensely proud of my colleagues in both chambers for standing up for the safety and wellbeing of Illinois families and communities,” Hirschauer said. “But today’s action will not and can not be the end of our work to prevent gun violence. We have a long road to go to keep guns off our streets and protect those we hold dear. Today we celebrate. Tomorrow, we get back to work.”

For more information on Hirschauer’s legislative agenda, please visit www.ilga.gov.

Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

(D-Batavia)
49th District

Springfield Office:
276-S Stratton Office Building
Springfield, IL 62706
(217) 782-1653

District Office:
946 Neltnor Blvd #108
West Chicago IL 60185

Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A comprehensive proposal sponsored by state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, to prohibit the sale of assault weapons, among other gun safety regulations, was passed by the Illinois House of Representatives Thursday.

“Losing a loved one to gun violence is an unthinkable reality that far too many Illinoisans must grapple with each day. We grieve for the children and family members lost too soon, for the survivors whose scars are both mental and physical,” Hirschauer said. “By passing the Protect Illinois Communities Act, we will prevent many of these horrific tragedies by removing weapons of war from our streets and keeping guns out of the wrong  hands. Today’s vote will both improve the safety of our communities while also honoring the lives lost to and changed by gun violence.”

The Protect Illinois Communities Act prohibits the sale of assault weapons, extended ammunition magazines and rapid-fire modifications. The bill also creates a state police anti-trafficking unit to collaborate with federal law enforcement agencies to reduce and prevent the flow of illegal guns over state lines. Finally, the legislation also strengthens Illinois’ red flag law to keep guns out of the hands of those who are a danger to themselves or others.

“Gun violence is a complex public health and safety crisis that deserves holistic, multifaceted policy solutions. Though today’s action will undoubtedly save lives and lead to safer communities, we must continue to take meaningful action to end gun violence across Illinois,” Hirschauer said. “I wholeheartedly urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass the Protect Illinois Communities Act and help lead us toward a safer Illinois. Our families, our children and our lives depend on it.”

Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

(D-Batavia)
49th District

    Springfield Office:
    276-S Stratton Office Building
    Springfield, IL 62706
    (217) 782-1653

    District Office:
    946 Neltnor Blvd #108
    West Chicago IL 60185

    Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

    SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In the wake of the hundreds of mass shootings suffered by the United States this year alone, including the Highland Park Fourth of July shooting, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is sponsoring a gun safety measure that includes a statewide ban on assault weapons.

    “Far too many communities in our country and in Illinois suffer from the effects of gun violence. They grieve for children lost too soon, teachers who take bullets for their students, and survivors who feel guilty for living through unspeakable tragedy,” Hirschauer said. “No one should have to endure such pain. It is for that reason that I proudly support an assault weapons ban. By strengthening our gun safety laws and limiting access to deadly weapons, we both honor the lives of those lost to gun violence and protect our families and communities.”

    House Bill 5855 bans assault weapons, large capacity magazines, and rapid-fire devices that help weapons function like fully automatic guns. The bill would also prevent individuals under age 21, with the exception of active members of the military and Illinois National Guard, from owning a firearm. Among other functions, the legislation strengthens firearm restraining order laws and holds gun manufacturers accountable for marketing firearms products using deceptive marketing tactics.

    “As a state representative, my top priority is to protect and advocate for the safety of children and families within our community. Every day assault weapons roam our streets is a day we cannot guarantee the wellbeing of those we hold dear,” Hirschauer said. “This assault weapons ban will undoubtedly save many innocent lives and protect communities across the state. I urge my colleagues to stand behind this historic proposal and help protect the people of Illinois.”

    Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

    (D-Batavia)
    49th District

      Springfield Office:
      276-S Stratton Office Building
      Springfield, IL 62706
      (217) 782-1653

      District Office:
      946 Neltnor Blvd #108
      West Chicago IL 60185

      Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

      WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — To help families prepare for the new school year, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, and state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, partnered with WeGo Together for Kids to hand out hundreds of backpacks full of school supplies to local students.

      “Thanks to the generosity of dozens of community organizations, West Chicago students will have what they need to learn and thrive in the classroom,” Hirschauer said. “I am tremendously proud of our community for coming together and helping those in need. When we work together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our young people.”

      Hirschauer and Villa co-hosted WeGo Together for Kids’ seventh annual school supply event in late August, distributing 976 backpacks to School District 33 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. During her time in the Illinois General Assembly, Hirschauer has been a fierce advocate for education. Most recently, she passed a budget that increases evidence-based education funding by $350 million and invests millions of dollars in special and early childhood education.

      “I couldn’t be prouder to represent such a giving community,” said Villa. “I’m incredibly grateful for all the local organizations and community members who came together to help our students start the year off on the right foot.”

      For a full list of donors, please visit https://repmaura.tiny.us/backpacks22.

      Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

      (D-Batavia)
      49th District

        Springfield Office:
        276-S Stratton Office Building
        Springfield, IL 62706
        (217) 782-1653

        District Office:
        946 Neltnor Blvd #108
        West Chicago IL 60185

        WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — To help families prepare for the new school year, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, and state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, partnered with WeGo Together for Kids to hand out hundreds of backpacks full of school supplies to local students.

        “Thanks to the generosity of dozens of community organizations, West Chicago students will have what they need to learn and thrive in the classroom,” Hirschauer said. “I am tremendously proud of our community for coming together and helping those in need. When we work together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our young people.”

        Hirschauer and Villa co-hosted WeGo Together for Kids’ seventh annual school supply event in late August, distributing 976 backpacks to School District 33 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. During her time in the Illinois General Assembly, Hirschauer has been a fierce advocate for education. Most recently, she passed a budget that increases evidence-based education funding by $350 million and invests millions of dollars in special and early childhood education.

        “I couldn’t be prouder to represent such a giving community,” said Villa. “I’m incredibly
        grateful for all the local organizations and community members who came together to help our
        students start the year off on the right foot.”

        Our office thanks all of the partners who made this backpack event possible:

        • Art of Fadez
        • Atlas Chicken
        • AVIENT
        • ComEd
        • Costco Wholesale
        • DuPage County Regional Office of Education
        • Dynamic Utility Solutions
        • Elgin Sweepers
        • Ethekos Consulting
        • Farmers Insurance
        • Graham Packaging
        • Hearth & Hammer
        • Integrated Pain Management
        • JelSert
        • Lakeshore Recycling Systems
        • LandCare
        • Marian Chicago
        • Mars
        • Meridian
        • Nationwide
        • North Arrow Partners
        • Owens & Minor
        • Realty of Chicago
        • Red Hive Market
        • RJ Lipscomb Engineering
        • Sandi Llano and Associates
        • St. Andrew Lutheran Church
        • Suncast
        • The Kelly Family
        • The Slice Spot
        • Thoro Bred Fitness
        • UPS
        • Wise Plastics
        Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

        WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, in partnership with state Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, and state Rep. Seth Lewis, R-Bartlett, is inviting residents to experience the Mobile Museum of Tolerance. The museum will visit Hawk Hollow Elementary School, Sunnydale Elementary School and Kenyon Woods Middle School from Sept. 6-9.

        “As we experience a rise in hate crimes nationwide, teaching our children to respect and celebrate people of different races, religions and cultures is now more important than ever,” Hirschauer said. “Education plays a key role in promoting tolerance and civility, and I am so excited to bring this outstanding educational opportunity to our community.”

        The Mobile Museum of Tolerance is an initiative of the Simon Wiesenthal Center aimed at empowering people to stand against racism, antisemitism and all forms of hate. The museum uses technology and interactive lessons to spread the message of tolerance and promote human dignity.

        “We are all responsible for creating a community where everyone is welcomed and respected,” Hirschauer said.  “I invite everyone to visit and learn from the Mobile Museum of Tolerance so we can create a more inclusive community where everyone can thrive.”

        Members of the public can visit the museum at Hawk Hollow Elementary on Sept. 6 from 2:30-4 p.m. at 235 Jacaranda Dr. in Bartlett or at Sunnydale Elementary on Sept. 7 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at 716 Sunnydale Blvd. in Streamwood. For more information, please contact Hirschauer’s office at office@repmaura49.com or 331-465-9661.

        Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

        (D-Batavia)
        49th District

        Springfield Office:
        276-S Stratton Office Building
        Springfield, IL 62706
        (217) 782-1653

        District Office:
        946 Neltnor Blvd #108
        West Chicago IL 60185

        Hirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

        WEST CHICAGO, Ill. — State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, is hosting a job fair on Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Elgin Community College Building E-1700 Spartan Drive in Elgin. The event, hosted in partnership with state Rep. Anna Moeller, D-Elgin, state Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin, state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, and the Illinois Department of Employment Security will have on-site interviews with local businesses. Job candidates are encouraged to bring their resume.

        “As we continue to deal with the effects of inflation, good-paying jobs are more important than ever,” Hirschauer said. “Our community is fortunate to have manufacturers and small businesses in need of workers, so I encourage anyone seeking employment to join us at this event.”

        Several employers from around the area will be in attendance, including Suncast, Elgin Sweepers, Jel Sert, JP Morgan Chase, Ecker Center for Behavioral Health, Saint Joseph Hospital, SAS Retail Services, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, KCT Credit Union, International Paper and more. Several state agencies, such as the Illinois Department of Corrections, Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Human Services, Department of Juvenile Justice and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency will attend the event as well.

        This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Hirschauer’s district office at office@repmaura49.com or call 331-465-9661.

        Rep. Maura HirschauerHirschauer Sends Assault Weapons Ban to Governor

        (D-Batavia)
        49th District

        Springfield Office:
        276-S Stratton Office Building
        Springfield, IL 62706
        (217) 782-1653

        District Office:
        946 Neltnor Blvd #108
        West Chicago IL 60185

        June Updates from State Representative Maura Hirschauer




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        Contents
        Upcoming Events
        Reflection
        Legislative Update
        June Recap – In the District
         

        Upcoming Events

         

        Paletas Storytime with Representative Hirschauer 

        July 6, 2022
        West Chicago Public Library
        : 118 W Washington St, West Chicago, IL 60185 

        6:00PM- 7:00PM 

        Bring your kids to get a free paleta and to be immersed in a good story read by Representative Hirschauer. Limited to 60 attendants. Paletas will be served first come, first serve. See you all there! 
         

        Community Shredding Event

        Hosted by KCT Credit Union & West Chicago Public Library District

        Saturday, August 27, 2022

        9am-11am

        West Chicago Public Library: 118 W Washington St, West Chicago, IL 60185 

        Fight identity theft and needless clutter at home by bringing your personal documents to our shredding event to have them safely shredded. Only paper materials will be accepted, small paper clips and staples do not need to be removed. Shredding accepted until shred truck is full.

        Reflection

        In June we celebrated Juneteenth for the second time as a national holiday, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.  In June we also celebrated the LGBTQ community with Pride month, a time of reflecting on how far we have come to be a more inclusive and just nation. Both of these celebrations serve also to remind us why we continue to fight for equity and equality for all.

        Reproductive Rights are under attack. The Supreme Court has pushed our country in the wrong direction with their decision to allow states to curtail some of the most private and personal rights of their residents. Abortion is still safe and legal in Illinois. As a result of the SCOTUS ruling we will see the rights of our neighbors crumble and we must look towards supporting and expanding access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care. Our work is not done here in Illinois. Onward we fight! 
         

        Legislative Update

        Historic Early Childhood Education Investments

        Representative Hirschauer Stands with the communities of Bartlett and Elgin to Stop CPKC, June 15, 2022

        June Recap

        Check out these posts for pics & more info about @RepMaura ‘s events in the past month.
        Visit to Elgin Community College May 24, 2022
        Educare’s 10 Year Anniversary Celebration June 2, 2022
        Declaration of June 3, 2022 as Gun Violence Awareness Day, June 2, 2022

        Veterans’ Breakfast , June 4, 2022
        Father’s Day Celebration with AgeGuide, June 8, 2022 
        WeGo Art Exhibit, Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World  
        Casa Michoacán Mariposas Migrantes Gràphica Michoacana exhibit, June 11, 2022
        Flag Day Celebration in Batavia, June 14, 2022
        AgeGuide SAIL Program, June 16, 2022
        The 49th District in Action: Celebrating Pride Month  June, 2022 

         

        We are here to listen to the needs of all constituents. Feel free to reach out to my office at 331-465-9661 for any issues or concerns. We are here to serve.  

        Rep Maura Hirschauer
        District Office

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        Free Veterans’ Breakfast THIS Saturday




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        You are receiving this because you interacted with Rep Hirschauer’s office. We wanted you to be aware of our upcoming event(s). If you would like to unsubscribe or update your preferences, please use the links in the footer of this email.

        Local Vets invited to a free Veterans' Breakfast at VFW Post 6791, 431 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago, IL 60185

        June 4 – 9am-11am

        Representative Hirschauer is a member of the Illinois House of Representatives Veterans’ Affairs Committee. She is inviting local veterans to share their thoughts on legislation and how it affects military veterans, their families, and communities, over breakfast at the VFW in West Chicago.

        Seats are still available, but the favor of an RSVP is requested via registration form or a call (331-465-9661) or email to the office by Friday afternoon.

        RSVP for Veterans’ Breakfast

        Rep Maura Hirschauer
        District Office

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        What’s Happening in the 49th District!

        Updates from Representative Hirschauer

        Contents
        Notes from Maura
        Legislative Update

        Around the District
        District Office in Action
        Upcoming Events
        Notices of Funding Opportunities
        Scholarships Available
        Internships Available
        Employment Opportunities

        Notes from Maura

        Hello friends!

        April is National Volunteer Month and I would like to give a special shout-out to all you amazing volunteers out there! Whether you help out at your local food bank, hang with the animals at a nearby shelter, or volunteer at your kiddo’s school, you make our community a better place by sharing your time and your talents with others. We all rise when we help others. Thank you for making our community great!

        Are you looking for volunteer opportunities? Join our office on Fridays and Saturdays as we help with weekly food distribution at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in West Chicago. Many families in our community are feeling the effects of inflation and unsure of where to find their next meal. Pastor Josh’s weekly food distribution provides resources for those who need it the most. Volunteers are needed to help pack and distribute food boxes. Call or email our office for details.
         

        Legislative Update

        The first week of April was a busy one in Springfield as my colleagues and I worked hard to meet the end of session deadline of April 9. Our number one priority was passing a fiscally and socially responsible budget. I am proud that we came together to create a budget that gives financial relief to the people and families that need it most, while also taking steps to restore the fiscal responsibility of the state. This budget also funds key initiatives around health care equity, community development, and business attraction. 

        To combat inflation, our budget includes a one time infusion of more than $1.8 billion dollars in aid for people and families. Here are some key elements: 

        • We are suspending the grocery tax for a year, saving consumers $400 million
        • We are freezing the gas tax for 6 months-saving consumers $70 million
        • We are doubling the property tax rebate to save up to $300 per household
        • We are increasing and expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit to cover more people, including immigrants. 
        • To assist working-class parents as they manage the pressures of inflation, we are giving EIC tax filers additional one-time direct checks for $50 per adult filer and $100 for each of their children.
        • We are doubling the teacher tax credit for purchasing classroom materials and creating a back-to-school tax holiday for all consumers.
        In addition to supporting Illinois families we have made strides to be responsible stewards of our state finances. The fiscally-responsible steps we are taking will continue to raise Illinois’ credit rating and improve our financial forecast. These steps will also save on future interest payments that otherwise would continue to eat into our budget. We will be able to spend that extra money on essential services for the people of Illinois.
        • $9.6B will go to fully funding our pension obligations for fiscal year 2023. Countless Illinoisans worked for years to earn their pensions, and we must honor the commitment we made to them. 
        • We are paying down $4B in unpaid bills which includes:
          • All COVID-19-related borrowing
          • $900M in delayed health insurance bills
          • $500M in pension stabilization
          • Late payment interest
        • We’re infusing $1B into the once-depleted Rainy Day Fund
        After the budget signing, my social media highlighted different areas of the budget in more detail. You can find these on my Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter feeds.

        I am proud to announce that the Fox Valley Park District was awarded a much needed appropriation for exciting new improvements to Lippold Park. As part of their comprehensive plan to expand outdoor education programming and multi-use space at Lippold Park the FVPD will be constructing a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Fox River to connect East to West. This project will increase access to Red Oak Nature Center and will open up the trail for even more folks to use. We are so excited about this project and I am happy to have helped advocate for this much needed capital appropriation.

        In addition to the budget, in the last days of session we passed important public safety legislation.
        • HB4383 Senate Amendment 2 – Ghost Gun Ban (Hirschauer Chief-Cosponsor) – with the passage of this bill Illinois became the 12th state to ban unserialized firearms, including those that can be 3D printed or made from kits. As an advocate of common sense gun violence prevention, I am very proud of this bill. The rise in ghost guns is the fastest growing gun safety problem facing our state. Requiring serial numbers for ghost guns will help law enforcement solve crimes. Furthermore, prohibiting the purchase, sale, and manufacturing of ghost guns is a critical component to common-sense gun safety legislation.
        • Other public safety initiatives in this budget total nearly half a billion, with new dollars going toward youth intervention programs, witness protection, and police recruitment. More than $70 million has been allocated for domestic violence prevention, as well as $2 million for expanding trauma recovery centers.
        Despite the shortened session, we were very busy in Springfield! For a more in depth update please consider joining me for my “End of Session Town Hall” on Tuesday May 10 at 7pm. Register on my website.
        Register to come to the Town Hall on Tuesday, May 10, 7pm on Zoom

        Maura

        Around the District

        Rep Hirschauer  had so much fun talking with 4th grade students at Alice Gustafson and 5th graders at J.B. Nelson Elementary Schools in Batavia. The future is BRIGHT with these smart, curious, and thoughtful kiddos at the helm. Thank you having Batavia Public School District 101 for having the Representative!

        District Office in Action

        Intern Mariah and Rep Maura work to package perishable foods for tomorrow's food drive.You may have seen our recent press release highlighting the additional needs of our local food pantries. The office is in contact with Pastor Josh at St.Andrew’s on a regular basis, is hosting a food drive this month along with Senator Villa’s office, and securing additional donations from some of our local companies and organizations. Today we helped with the preparations for tomorrow’s food pick up and are looking forward to next week’s Whole Family Health Fair at that same location!
        If you hear a knock at your door, it may be our office out connecting with constituents and getting the word out about our services and events. After her time in Springfield, Maura is enjoying these opportunities to get out into the district to meet up with constituents one-on-one and hear about their needs and concerns.
        District 49 is expanding our staff! If you have a passion for serving the community and are interested in the ways our state office can serve constituents, then this could be an opportunity for you! We are currently accepting local applicants for a Constituent Service and Community Outreach Coordinator, as well as for Fall Interns. Contact the office at 331-465-9661 with questions or submit a cover letter, resume, and references to office@repmaura49.com.

        Upcoming Events

        April 27 – Mobile DMV
        with Senator Karina Villa
        10am-2pm
        West Chicago Public Library
        118 W Washington St, West Chicago
        Whole Family Health Fair
        Food Distribution and Health Resources
        Saturday Apr 30, 8am-12pm
        St. Andrew Church
        155 N Prince Crossing Rd, West Chicago
        Spring Town Hall Meeting
        Tuesday May 10, 7pm-8pm
        Zoom
        Registration Required
        Veterans’ Breakfast
        Saturday June 4, 9am-11am
        VFW West Chicago
        431 N Neltnor Blvd, West Chicago

        Around the State

        Notices of Funding Opportunities

        Description Deadline
        Illinois BioDiversity Field Trip Grant January 31, 2023
        DCEO (State + Federal) Various
        Illinois Catalog of State Financial Assistance Various
        Upcoming: IDOA Local Food Purchase Assistance Program (LFPA)
         

        Scholarships

        Aspiring Black CPA Scholarship May 1

        Internships

        District Office Academic Internships – Fall Submit resume & cover letter to office@repmaura49.com
        IDES- Summer Job Info & Career Planning for High Schoolers & College Students

        Employment

        Work For Illinois – State Employment Portal
        Constituent Service and Community Outreach Coordinator ongoing
        Apprenticeships in Illinois – info for jobseekers as well as employers!
         

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