PLAINFIELD – State Representatives Tom Cross (R-Plainfield), Darlene Senger (R-Naperville), and Larry Walsh Jr. (D-Elwood) are asking residents to donate home supplies and gently used clothing to benefit Lamb’s Fold Center for Women and Children in Joliet. The donation drive will begin on May 28, 2013.

Specifically, Lamb’s Fold is most in need of summer clothing, shoes, kitchen supplies (laundry soap, dish soap, etc. zip lock bags, foil, garbage bags, coffee filters, and paper products), beauty supplies, non-perishable food, hygiene products, school supplies, and more.

Designated donation boxes will be located at the following drop-off collection sites throughout the duration of the clothing drive:

97^th District Office 

Tom Cross

24047 W. Lockport St., Suite 213

Plainfield, IL  60544

Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 5:00 pm

www.tomcross.org

41^st District Office

Darlene Senger

125 Water St

Naperville, IL 60540

Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 4:00pm

www.darlenesenger.org

86^th District Office

Lawrence M. “Larry” Walsh, Jr.

121 Springfield Ave.

Joliet, IL 60543

Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm

“Lamb’s Fold offers a critical lifeline to many families in our communities,” said Cross. “Contributions from this clothing and supplies’ drive will help provide the tools needed to change the lives of women and children who are faced with desperate situations.”

“Through physical, financial, and emotional recovery, Lamb’s Fold strives to empower women and children from our communities to build a better tomorrow. I am grateful to be part of these efforts and I encourage you to make a donation to this good cause,” said Senger.

“The toll that domestic violence takes on families and the community is devastating,” Walsh said. “I hope everyone can find it in their heart to help these families by taking a moment to donate one of the requested items.  Together, we can help these strong women who are struggling to make a better life for themselves and their children.”

Lamb’s Fold Center for Women and Children serves homeless and abused women and children by providing them with community-based supportive housing, personalized recovery services, and assisting them to achieve self-sufficiency.

For more information on the clothing and supplies drive, please call the office of State Rep. Tom Cross at (815) 254-0000, State Rep. Darlene Senger at (630) 420-3008, or Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. at (815) 730-8600.

Anyone who wishes to donate large items or would like to contribute a monetary donation are encouraged to contact Jeanne Terdic at (815) 545-4365 or email her atjterdic@lambsfold.org.

Rep. Cross presents SB1764 on the House Floor. (May 22, 2013)

SPRINGFIELD – House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) passed Senate Bill 1764 out of the Illinois House today.  This legislation would allow for felony charges when a hired driver transports passengers while under the influence of alcohol. 

This legislation emerged after limousine driver, Richard Madison, was charged with misdemeanor DUI and reckless conduct after transporting Oswego East High School students to their prom in Glen Ellyn earlier this month. Although Madison’s blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit, he was not charged with a felony. 

“We think the authorities should have the option to charge a driver with a felony in cases like this,” said Cross.  “In their wildest imagination, those Oswego parents and kids would not have thought that this driver on prom night would be drunk, we hope this bill serves as a deterrent.” 

While DUI is a Class A misdemeanor, current Illinois law allows for a DUI felony charge if a school bus driver is caught transporting passengers are under the age of 18 while under the influence of alcohol. 

This legislation would give States’ Attorneys the ability to charge a for-hire driver with a Class 4 felony if he/she is guilty of driving passengers while under the influence of alcohol.  This crime would be punishable by 1-3 years in prison or up to 2 ½ years of probation. In addition, a school bus driver who is guilty of driving under the influence will be guilty of felony aggravated DUI, regardless of the age of the passengers.

Rep. Cross worked with Rep. Dennis Reboletti (R-Elmhurst) and DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin to craft this legislation. 

In addition, SB 1764 also permits for enhanced criminal penalties for repeat violations of driving on a suspended or revoked license.  Current judicial interpretation does not permit the compounding of license revocations; SB 1764 would clarify the law to provide that, for penalty purposes, a driver’s license or permit may be subject to multiple suspensions or revocations

State Representative TOM CROSS is seeking businesses to sign up to participate in a FREE JOBS FAIR coming up on THURSDAY, AUGUST 1ST in Plainfield.  Please download the attached flyer to sign up! 

Click here to download the flyer

Plainfield — Illinois House Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) invites all citizens of the 97th District to attend his traveling office hours in Shorewood on Friday, May 24, 2013.

“This is a good opportunity for residents to have a chance to meet with our staff and discuss issues of concern regarding state government,” said Cross. “We are always happy to hear the opinions of our constituents.”

The purpose of traveling office hours is to provide access and services to constituents at a convenient location and time.

The traveling office hours will be held on Friday, May 24, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Troy Township Community Center located at 25448 Seil Rd. in Shorewood. A member of Rep. Cross’ district office staff will be available to meet with residents.

For more information, please contact Rep. Cross’ district office at 815/254-0000.

Springfield, IL – Today the Illinois Senate passed legislation that will provide for funding and support for diabetes research through the creation of a Diabetes Awareness license plate. 

House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) sponsored the legislation in the House which will provide funding for diabetes research in Illinois.  The legislation will deposit proceeds for the issuance of each license plate into the Diabetes Research Check Off fund. “A major component of this legislation will help fund research efforts for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and will hopefully lead to a cure,” said Cross.  “We also hope when individuals see the license plates on the road they will be encouraged to be screened themselves.” 

House Bill 1815was sponsored in the Senate by Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).  

“I’ve long advocated for increased education and awareness of diabetes, a serious condition that affects citizens across all racial and social barriers. I am happy to have joined forces with my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle to carry solid bipartisan legislation that’s going to provide much needed funding to support Diabetes Awareness,” added Hunter.    

If signed into law by the governor, this bill would charge Diabetes Awareness license plate applicants a $40 fee for original issuance in addition to the appropriate registration fee. Of this fee, $25 would be deposited into the Diabetes Research Check Off Fund.  Money in the Diabetes Check Off Fund is made available through Illinois Department of Public Health grants.  The grants are dispersed to public or private entities, such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the American Diabetes Association, in Illinois for the purpose of funding diabetes research.  

Experts say the sooner diabetes is diagnosed and properly treated, your chances decrease of being diagnosed with the potentially deadly side effects such as blindness, kidney failure, heart disease and stroke.

SPRINGFIELD – House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and state Rep. Dennis Reboletti (R-Elmhurst) have partnered with DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin to introduce legislation that calls for felony charges when a hired driver transports passengers while under the influence of alcohol. 

As previously reported, limousine driver Richard Madison was charged with misdemeanor DUI and reckless conduct after transporting Oswego East High School students to their prom in Glen Ellyn. Madison’s blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit, but was not charged with a felony. 

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) talks to the Springfield press corps about a new bill that will crack down on DUI offenders that are for-hire drivers and under the influence of alcohol.

“When hiring a driver, you expect safe travels from a professional who is sober,” said Cross. “This time of year, many of our teenagers are heading to prom and enjoying this milestone in their life.  Their parents shouldn’t have to worry about getting their kids there safely.  Imagine the horror of these Oswego East High School students this weekend when they had to call their parents to tell them that their driver was drunk.” 

While DUI is a Class A misdemeanor, current Illinois law allows for a DUI felony charge if a school bus driver is caught transporting passengers are under the age of 18 while under the influence of alcohol. 

House Bill 3630 would give states’ attorneys the ability to charge a for-hire driver with a Class 4 felony if he/she is guilty of driving passengers while under the influence of alcohol.  This crime would be punishable by 1-3 years in prison or up to 2 ½ years of probation. In addition, a school bus driver who is guilty of driving under the influence will be guilty of felony aggravated DUI, regardless of the age of the passengers.

“For-hire drivers assume the responsibility of each and every life in that vehicle,” said Reboletti. “If they want to abuse that responsibility then they are going to suffer the consequences with increased penalties.” 

“Whether hailing a cab or contracting with a professional livery service, passengers have the right to expect that they will arrive at their destination safely,” said Bob Berlin, DuPage County State’s Attorney.  “Increasing the penalty for drivers of these vehicles convicted of DUI sends a message that as the person responsible for the safety of others, you will face a stiffer penalty if found guilty of DUI.

State Representative Kay Hatcher (R-Yorkville) and House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) today advanced House Resolution 169 in the Illinois House, urging the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to revisit their recent decision to drop wrestling from the Olympic Games.

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego), former U.S. Speaker of the House Denny Hastert and Rep. Kay Hatcher (R-Yorkville)

Former U.S. Speaker of the House Denny Hastert was also in Springfield today advocating for the resolution.

“Wrestling plays an important role in Illinois communities and provides our youth the opportunity to learn valuable life skills through discipline, strength, and hard work,” said Cross. “I remain hopeful that the International Olympic Committee will reverse its decision to eliminate wrestling from the Olympics.”

“Wrestling is an Olympic tradition dating back to the very first Olympic Games. Today, hundreds of thousands of student athletes here and across the country wrestle, many with dreams of participating in the Olympics. The Olympic Committee needs to continue to inspire young athletes’ dreams, not stifle them,” Representative Hatcher said.

The IOC executive board’s has voted to phase out wrestling after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

In 2012, more than 280,000 high school students in the United States participated in the sport. It is considered to be one of the most diverse sports, with athletes from almost 200 countries around the world.  Illinois has the second most high school wrestlers in any state in the nation, with 17,112 high school boys and girls wrestling in the 2011-2012 year.

Illinois is also active in college wrestling through 18 college programs.

Saturday, June 15th
9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Plainfield Central High School
24120 Fort Beggs Dr., Plainfield

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FLYER

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) answers questions from the media following the pensions committee Wednesday. (May 1, 2013)

Illinois House Republican Leader made the following statement after Senate Bill 1, Amendment 1 passed out of the Personnel and Pensions Committee today in Springfield.

“In terms of true pension reform and sustainability long term, this does that and as I said, it is a framework of what we’ve been working on for a long time. I think not having the cost shift, to be specific, is helpful for suburban and downstate members, and my guess is that this thing is going to pass out of the House, the question is what’s going to happen in the Senate?”

Click here to read Illinois Issues’ description of the bill.

Springfield. ..With tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in new revenue at stake, a group of House Republicans today called for a House vote on a bi-partisan fracking agreement currently stuck in the Rules Committee. 

Hydraulic fracturing, more commonly referred to as fracking, is the extraction of natural gas and oil from the earth through horizontal drilling.  The extraction technique involves injecting water, sand and chemicals into rock to release the natural gas. 

More than a year of negotiations involving both energy and environmental organizations resulted in a bi-partisan agreement that permits high volume fracking while enforcing some of the nation’s strictest water and air protections.  House Bill 2615 establishes the permit process, property owner notification, defines prevention standards and public input timelines.
With widespread agreement and more than 50 bi-partisan House sponsors, Republican Representatives today called for the measure to be released from the Rules Committee for prompt consideration by the full House.

“Fracking in Illinois will be the biggest job creator our state has seen in years,” said Rep. David  Reis (R-Ste. Marie), a negotiator and chief co-sponsor of the measure.  “We’ve got an agreed bill with business, union, agricultural and environmental leaders and progress should not be stalled due to political games.  With thousands of jobs to be created under this measure, in addition to millions of new revenue for state and local economies, our top priority must be moving this bill forward and signing it into law.”

“Expanding the fracking industry in Illinois will create more jobs and grow our economy,” said Rep. Mike Bost (R-Murphysboro), another chief co-sponsor.  “Illinois needs jobs, our state government must stop the political games and pass House Bill 2615 to expand fracking in Illinois.  The legislation introduced would make Illinois’ fracking industry the most regulated of any state while safeguarding our water supply and bring thousands of jobs to our state.  Illinois has an opportunity at its fingertips, let’s stop sitting on our hands and use this opportunity to put people back to work.” 

“Illinois has the potential to be on the cutting edge with hydraulic fracking. This agreed-to process by all stakeholders will propel Illinois and the Midwest into economic heights never before reached,” said State Rep. Brad Halbrook. 

New natural gas production in Illinois could create more than 45,000 jobs and $9 billion in economic development, according to an Illinois Chamber Foundation study.  The report identified potential economic benefits to the state at three hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling scenarios (low, medium and high): lowest scenario creating 1,034 new jobs and the highest scenario 47,312.  The study concluded fracking in Illinois, under modest assumptions, will be a significant creator of new jobs translating into billions of dollars in economic impact for the state. 

“I think we have created model legislation for the United States for safe hydraulic fracturing; to do fracking in way that provides a competitive basis so that we can get these important resources out the ground, to aid the public in our energy supply and yet provide the best possible safety to the public, air, and water,” said Rep. Mike Fortner (R-West Chicago). “Not only will this provide a more competitive basis in the industry, but also creates a step towards an affordable energy solution that is a friendlier alternative to the environment.” 

“Our state is in a deep financial crisis and we need jobs.  Illinois’ unemployment rate continues to be higher than the national average. While this is not the cure to all of our woes, it is a step we need to take to start growing the economy, which will not only help our unemployment situation, but also our state budget,” added House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego).  “We need to seize this opportunity to create jobs and bring in new revenues as soon as possible.”

(Shorewood)  Rep. Cross read to the fourth graders at Walnut Trails Elementary in Shorewood on April 26, 2013.  The kids were very attentive and excited to read!

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and his Ovation to Business Advisory Committee presented his monthly Ovation to Business award to Home Depot in Shorewood this morning for their dedication to civic involvement and work on behalf of the local business community. 

Rep. Cross presents April 2013 Ovation to Business Award to Home Depot in Shorewood.

“Home Depot, under the leadership of store manager, Marc Hanouw, has set a high standard as a partner and full member of the Shorewood community,” said Cross.  “The activities and programs sponsored and supported by the Home Depot Team throughout the community is truly impressive.  From the ‘Kids Workshop’ events on the first Saturday of every month to holding ‘Kids Clinics’ at local schools and pre-school facilities teaching children motor skills, Home Depot represents the best virtues of civic service and helping Shorewood be an even better ‘home’ for all residents. I am pleased to present them with this award.”

Home Depot is located at 621 Brook Forest Avenue in Shorewood.  The business employs 150+ during peak season (100 during regular season). In addition to donations of free vegetables for schools with ‘grow their garden project,’ Home Depot partners with the Shorewood Community to sponsor Community Garden and Crossroads Fest, as well as many Chamber events. Annually, Home Depot makes a donation to the City of trees and pumpkins for the ‘Fall Fling’ and associates volunteer to help children decorate pumpkins.

“One of Home Depot’s Core Values is Building Strong Relationships and I take a personal ownership in working with our Community. I have a great relationship with the City and Chamber of Commerce and we help in any way possible to make Shorewood and the surrounding communities a better place,” said Marc Hanouw. “

Rep. Cross is currently accepting nominations for future recipients of the Ovation to Business Award. You can find and submit the application form on Rep. Cross’ website, www.tomcross.com.  

You can nominate a small, medium or large business in the 84th district that is sustaining or growing jobs as well as involved in community service. Not-for-profit organizations are also eligible for nomination. If you have any questions, please call Lois Maguire at (815) 254-0000. 

Cross’ Ovation to Business Advisory Committee will review the applications and make award recipient recommendations.

Thank you to all of the residents who joined us for tonights’ “Danger in Our Backyard” free forum.  You can find contact information for the various speakers and presenters below.

Click here to see the Linden Oaks’ PowerPoint Presentation.

Rep. Tom Cross-Illinois State Representative, 97th District
815-254-0000 tom@tomcross.com: www.tomcross.com

Rep. Kay Hatcher-Illinois State Representative, 50th District
630-553-3223 info@kayhatcher.us: www.hatcher.ilhousegop.org

John Roberts - Roberts / Co-Founder of HERO (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization)
312-513-1878 jroberts@herofoundation.org:  www.TheHeroFoundation.org

Beth Sack –  Manager of Addiction Services; Linden Oaks
630-646-8057 bsack@edward.org: www.edward.org/lindenoaks

Becky Rudolph -Kendall County Health Dept.
630-553-9100 brudolph@co.kendall.il.us: www.co.kendall.il.us

Rob Bender - Tri-County Counseling
630-450-1863 Msw1212@comcast.net

Lindsey Vass –  Rosecrance; Treatment Facilities in Chicagoland Area
815-985-5617 livass@rosecrance.org: www.rosecrance.org/substance-abuse

Kimberly Groll-  Licensed Professional Counselor/Cert. Alcohol & Drug
630-632-4060 i800counselor@aol.com

Pamela Rodriguez- President/TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities)
312-573-8238 prodriguez@tasc-il.org: www.tasc.org

Paula Cacossa –  The Truth About Drugs – provides info to ALL groups
630-908-7415 pcacossa@gmail.com

Gloria Bloodsaw –Outreach Coordinator,
Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment
312-285-3132 gsbloods@gatewayfoundation.org: www.recovergateway.org

Bob Eigenbauer- CEO, Shield Genie; keeping kids safe on the internet
630-337-6575 beigenbauer@shieldgenie.com: www.shieldgenie.com

Dave Dapkus-  Reformers Unanimous; non-profit faith-based recovery clinics
630-421-0117 chicagohand@yahoo.com: www.reformu.com

Marne Fauser- Community Outreach Director,
Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association
217-528-7335 mfauser@iadda.org: www.iadda.org

Chris Reed – The Other Side; Addiction Recovery Services-Providing communities  with sober entertainment & fellowship
847-307-1143 chrisr@the-other-side.org: Www.the-other-side.org

A special thank you to NIDA; National Institute On Drug Abuse for providing booklets. Please visit their website: www.teens.drugabuse.gov

Click below to see photos from April 27th forum.[[Show as slideshow]]

Thank you to ALL speakers & participants of this most necessary event for our community-they have ALL participated at no charge! The event has been planned and guided by a collaborative, public-private partnership with Rep. Tom Cross & Rep. Kay Hatcher, Oswego Police Department, Linden Oaks, Oswego School District 308. And thank you to Linden Oaks for providing refreshments.

House Republicans discuss common sense welfare reform package in Normal on April 23, 2013. From Left to Right, Rep. Barb Wheeler (R-Crystal Lake), Rep. Adam Brown (R-Champaign), Rep. Pam Roth (R-Morris), Rep. Dan Brady (R-Bloomington), and Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego)

House Republican Leader Tom Cross and House Republican lawmakers unveiled a package of legislation designed to reduce fraud and misuse of the state’s welfare system today. The lawmakers were in Normal and Decatur Tuesday to announce their legislation. 

The welfare reform package focuses on reducing the fraudulent use of LINK cards (food stamps), the misuse of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (cash) benefits, and preventing criminals from receiving welfare benefits. The goal of the legislation is to save taxpayer dollars and preserve benefits for those most in need.

“The General Assembly needs to pass strong welfare reforms now to put a stop to the waste, fraud and abuse of the welfare system,” said Rep. Adam Brown (R-Champaign). “With 4.7 million Illinoisans on welfare, more than one-third of our citizens are receiving taxpayer-funded benefits. Welfare costs are skyrocketing while Illinois faces an ongoing fiscal crisis. We must work to reverse this trend.”

House Bill 133 ensures that a person using a LINK card is the authorized user. The proposal would require all LINK cards to display a photo of the cardholder to ensure that the person presenting it at the checkout counter is the same person who is entitled to use it. The names of all secondary users will also be placed on the card. Secondary users will be required to show a valid photo I.D. before they can use the card.

“This program is so important to those in need that we must make sure people who are not entitled to benefits are not fraudulently obtaining them. Putting photographs on the LINK cards is one way we ensure that the intended benefits go to the intended recipients,” said Dan Brady (R-Bloomington).

House Bill 2784 guarantees that cash assistance benefits are used for the basic needs that they are intended for. TANF benefits are intended to provide financial assistance to help pay for basic needs such as food, shelter, utilities, and other necessary expenses, however under current law a person is free to spend this cash without restrictions. The legislation would prevent TANF benefits from being used to purchase alcohol, lottery tickets, firearms, and other specified goods and services.

House Republican lawmakers stopped in Decatur as well to talk about the welfare reform package on April 23, 2013. From Left to Right, Rep. Bill Mitchell (R-Forsyth) Rep. Brown, Rep. Cross, Rep. Roth, and Rep. Wheeler.

“The TANF program is designed to assist those families that simply need a little help,” said Rep. Pam Roth (R-Morris). “Unfortunately there are those that abuse this system and use the benefits to purchase non-essential items such as lottery tickets, alcohol, concert tickets, gambling games, and even movie rentals. House Bill 2784 will ensure that TANF benefits are being used for their intended purpose, for families that need a helping hand.”

House Bill 3174 and House Bill 2490 would prevent criminals from receiving aid. These bills would suspend public aid and benefits to inmates at State correctional facilities and recipients with outstanding warrants.

“The reason we are all here is to make sure that those who deserve these vital services, receive these vital services,” said Rep. Barb Wheeler (R-Crystal Lake). “We are in the middle of a financial crisis here in Illinois. We cannot ask our public servants, teachers, and taxpayers to carry the load of Illinois’ debt while criminals are receiving state benefits.”

“These are common sense proposals that need to be considered in Springfield during this spring session,” said House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego). “We need to make sure that our system is not being abused so that the people, who need these services most, have access.”

Update: May 13, 2013

From the Governor’s Office:  Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Obama’s disaster declaration issued for the State of Illinois.

Assistance for Affected Individuals and Families Can Include as Required:

Rental payments for temporary housing for those whose homes are unlivable. Initial assistance may be provided for up to three months for homeowners and at least one month for renters. Assistance may be extended if requested after the initial period based on a review of individual applicant requirements. (Source: FEMA funded and administered.) 

• Grants for home repairs and replacement of essential household items not covered by insurance to make damaged dwellings safe, sanitary and functional. (Source: FEMA funded and administered.)
• Grants to replace personal property and help meet medical, dental, funeral, transportation and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other federal, state and charitable aid programs. (Source: FEMA funded at 75 percent of total eligible costs; 25 percent funded by the state.)
• Unemployment payments up to 26 weeks for workers who temporarily lost jobs because of the disaster and who do not qualify for state benefits, such as self-employed individuals. (Source: FEMA funded; state administered.)
• Low-interest loans to cover residential losses not fully compensated by insurance. Loans available up to $200,000 for primary residence; $40,000 for personal property, including renter losses. Loans available up to $2 million for business property losses not fully compensated by insurance. (Source: U.S. Small Business Administration.)
• Loans up to $2 million for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes that have suffered disaster-related cash flow problems and need funds for working capital to recover from the disaster’s adverse economic impact. This loan in combination with a property loss loan cannot exceed a total of $2 million. (Source: U.S. Small Business Administration.)
• Loans up to $500,000 for farmers, ranchers and aquaculture operators to cover production and property losses, excluding primary residence. (Source: Farm Service Agency, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.)
• Other relief programs: Crisis counseling for those traumatized by the disaster; income tax assistance for filing casualty losses; advisory assistance for legal, veterans benefits and social security matters.

How to Apply for Assistance:

• Those in the county designated for assistance to affected residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) Monday through Sunday until further notice. Applicants registering for aid should be prepared to provide basic information about themselves (name, permanent address, phone number), insurance coverage and any other information to help substantiate losses. 

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders and ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts available at www.fema.gov/medialibrary and www.youtube.com/fema ; follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/fema and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fema.

Update: May 9, 2013

From a Press Release: Governor Pat Quinn today asked President Barack Obama to declare 11 Illinois counties major disaster areas following the storms and heavy rainfall that moved through the state in mid-April. If the governor’s request is approved, residents in those counties will be eligible to apply for grants and low-interest federal loans to help recover from the historic flooding. Counties included in the request are Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Fulton, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, LaSalle, McHenry and Will.

Stay updated and informed on the recent flooding throughout the state by clicking on the helpful links below.

Contact Map for Local Red Cross and County EMA offices  http://www.state.il.us/iema/contacts/contacts.htm 

Red Cross Hotline 1-800 Red-Cross 

Federal Links  http://www.ready.gov/ 

State of Illinois Updates and Links http://www.ready.illinois.gov

House Republican’s Caucus Blog

Oswego Patch

Plainfield Patch

Click below to see some of the photos from in and around the 97th district. [[Show as slideshow]]

Rep. Cross invited residents of his district to learn more about options to plan for their aging parents needs on April 22, 2013.

[Show as slideshow]

Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) announced today that millions in road construction projects in the 97th district will be moving forward as part of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s six year road plan. 

“Infrastructure and road improvements are so important for the safety and quality of life for our residents,” said Cross.  “We are happy to report that these projects will be underway in the next few years.” 

In Will County, there will be several projects slated to begin in Fiscal Year 2014 including: 

• Engineering on I-80 from Ridge Road to US 30 (Lincoln Highway) including congestion mitigation, $300,000
• Adding Additional lanes, reconstruction, construction engineering, and utility adjustment at U.S. 30, IL 59 to north of I-55 ($29.3 million)
• Adding left and right turn lanes on U.S. 30 at I-55 ramps ($1 million) 

In the next several years, there are a few more significant projects that will advance in Will County (FY15-FY19): 

• Purchasing land and adding new traffic signals on US 30 at 119^th ($1.75 million)
• Reconstruct the intersection on U.S. 30 at Heggs Rd. ($1.25 million) 

The Illinois Department Fiscal Year 2014-2019 Proposed Highway Improvement Program totals $9.5 billion and includes an FY 2014 annual program of $2.24 billion.   The proposed highway improvement program provides funding to maintain 2,142 miles of highways and replace or rehabilitate 517 bridges.

Some highlights in Kendall County include:

• Major interchange reconstruction at IL Route 47 and I-88 (Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway);
• Congestion mitigation on US Route 30 West of Dugan Road to West of IL Route 47, and bridge work on the US Route 30 bridge over IL 47;
• Additional lane construction and bridge replacement on US Route 34 from east of Eldamain Road to Center Parkway in Yorkville;
• Additional lane construction and new storm sewers on US Route 34 from IL Route 47 to Orchard Road west of Oswego;
• Resurfacing of US 34 from the Fox River Bridge to IL Route 71 in Oswego;
• Congestion mitigation work on IL Route 47 and US Route 30 from the Kane County Line to Kennedy Road North of Yorkville;
• Intersection improvement and traffic light installation at IL Route 47 and Main Street South of Elburn;
• Bridge replacement on IL Route 56 at Hankes Road;
• Additional lane construction on IL Route 71 west of IL Route 47 to east of IL Route 126 

IDOT’s six year plan also includes funding for passenger rail development in Kendall County, the purchase of new busses for service expansion into Kendall County and improvements at the Aurora Municipal Airport. 

The total cost of the statewide construction program is $12.62 billion over the next six years, of which $7.2 billion comes from the federal government, $1.9 billion from state funds and the rest from local and other sources.

Click here to see the entire list of projects for Kendall and Will Counties.

Please click here to take Rep. Tom Cross’ legislative survey.

Oswego…Illinois House Rep. Tom Cross (R- Oswego) invites all citizens of the 97^th District to attend his traveling office hours in Oswego on Tuesday, April 30. 

“This is a great opportunity for residents to have a chance to meet with our staff and discuss issues of concern regarding state government,” said Cross.  “We are always happy to hear the concerns, opinions and suggestions from our constituents.”  

The purpose of traveling office hours is to provide access and services to constituents at a convenient location and time. The traveling office hours will be held on Tuesday, April 30 from 2 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the community room at the Oswego Village Hall, 100 Parkers Mill in Oswego. 

For more information, please contact Cross’ district office at 815/254-0000.

SPRINGFIELD –Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and Rep. Ron Sandack (R-Downers Grove) passed a new transparency initiative out of the Illinois House Tuesday to make state and local government more accountable to taxpayers. 

Rep. Ron Sandack (R-Downers Grove) and Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) hosted a tele-press conference in Plainfield to unveil transparency initiatives. (February 13, 2013)

House Bill 1555 allows every property taxpayer to access the details on how their taxes are being spent. The legislation expands the Illinois Transparency Portal (ITAP) to include all taxing bodies and their employee-related expenses, including employee pay and pension costs.

“With all the well-documented fiscal problems Illinois faces, there are some easy things we can do to increase government transparency and save taxpayer money,” Sandack said. “We would like to provide a common and easily accessible place for residents to go to get this important information.” 

The Illinois Transparency Portal (ITAP) is already in place and will not require a new website or require a new expense to the Illinois taxpayers. The Illinois Transparency and Accountability Portal (ITAP) is maintained and run by the Governor’s office.  

“This will provide a one stop shop for taxpayers to see how the state, their school districts, park districts and other local governments are not only spending their money but also to see what debt is piling up,”  added Cross.

HB1555 now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Springfield, IL – In an effort to further fund and support diabetes research throughout Illinois, House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) advanced legislation out of House committee today calling for the creation of a Diabetes Awareness license plate.  The legislation will see proceeds deposited into the Diabetes Research Check Off fund for the issuance of each license plate.  

Rep. Tom Cross presents the Diabetes License Plate bill in committee Tuesday morning in Springfield. House Bill 1815 passed out of the Transportation: Vehicles & Safety Committee unanimously.

“Awareness is key when it comes to diabetes detection and treatment,” said Cross.  “By creating a diabetes awareness license plate we can further fund diabetes research efforts that continue to work towards a cure, while also preventing many of the side effects of diabetes such as blindness, kidney failure, heart disease and stroke.”    

If passed, House Bill 1815 would charge Diabetes Awareness license plate applicants a $40 fee for original issuance in addition to the appropriate registration fee. Of this fee, $25 would be deposited into the Diabetes Research Check Off Fund.  Money in the Diabetes Check Off Fund is made available through Illinois Department of Public Health grants.  The grants are dispersed to public or private entities in Illinois for the purpose of funding diabetes research.  

HB 1815 now heads to the House floor for consideration.

(Oswego) Reps. Tom Cross (R-Oswego), Kay Hatcher (R-Yorkville), law enforcement, school officials and concerned parents are hosting a “Danger in Our Backyard” free forum to discuss the risks of substance abuse among teens and local adults at 6 p.m. on April 25th at Oswego High School.

“The threats of heroin, marijuana, prescription drug abuse and alcohol are very real to young people in our communities,” said Cross. “We hope this forum will provide an open discussion between parents, law enforcement, educators and health officials about these dangers that are right in our backyards.”

“It’s critical for parents to be proactive – to understand the risks and to know the warning signs that their child may be involved with drugs,” Hatcher added. “At the forum, concerned parents will be able to discuss the issue directly with other parents who have worked through this ordeal with their families.”

The program will feature a speaker from the Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization, Edward Hospital, Oswego High School, and Oswego Police Department. In addition, parents who have dealt with these issues directly and a recovering addict will also offer some insight during the forum.

Click here to view the flyer for the event.

The Danger in our Backyard forum will take place on Thursday, April 25th at 6 p.m. at Oswego High School, 4250 Route 71 in Oswego. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information on this free program call 815-254-0000.

Members of the Will County Farm Bureau visited with Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) on April 11, 2013 about important legislation they are working on and watching in Springfield.

(From L to R) John Andermann, Tom Nugent, Mark Schneidewind, Leader Cross, Judy Ogalla, Rep. Kosel, Jim Robbins, Glenn Ginder and Roger Bettenhausen.

Springfield, IL…State Representative Tom Cross (R-Oswego)’s constitutional amendment that would ultimately, if voters agree, eliminate the Lieutenant Governor’s office, passed out of the Illinois House today. 

 “In an effort to streamline Illinois government, the majority of my colleagues in the Illinois House agreed that we do not need this executive office,” said Cross.  “This measure could ultimately save taxpayers $2 million.” 

Listen to Cross’ explanation here.

Currently, the Lt. Governor’s office does not have any duties outlined in the constitution, except to succeed the Governor if he/she is unable to serve. 

House Joint Constitutional Amendment 18 would remove the Lt. Governor in that succession. The Attorney General would replace the Lt. Governor as next in the line of for Governor if this Constitutional Amendment is adopted. The vacancy in in the Attorney General’s Office would be filled by an appointment from the Governor. The appointee will hold office until the next election. 

If passed by the Senate, this constitutional amendment would put on the ballots for voters to consider in 2014.  If approved by the voters, the office would be eliminated in 2019. 

Six other states do not have the office of lieutenant governor including: Arizona, Maine, New Hampshire, Oregon, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Springfield, IL…State Representative Tom Cross (R-Oswego)’s bill that creates an intensive probation program for non-violent offenders passed the Illinois House today.

“We are thankful that State’s Attorney Weis brought this idea to our attention,” said Cross. “It is important that we remain committed to strict enforcement of our laws, recognizing what works and doesn’t work in terms of punishment for first time, non-violent offenders.”

House Bill 3010 will create a program similar to the Offender Initiative Probation program that became law last year. The initiative will give counties that don’t have pretrial diversion programs, such as Kendall County, the option of an alternative disposition for first-time, nonviolent offenders who are found guilty or plead guilty at trial.

Oswego…State Representative Tom Cross (R-Oswego) and his Senior Advisory Council invite area families to gather information for meeting the housing needs of an aging parent at an April 22^nd seminar they are hosting at the Oswego Senior Center.

“Family Matters – Planning for Your Aging Parents Housing Needs” will be held from 7:00pm to 9:00pm on April 22^nd at the Oswego Senior Center located at 156 East Washington Street in Oswego to help families review housing options and create a financial plan to ensure their aging parents future needs will be well met.

“This is an issue that in time touches all of our families,” Representative Cross said. “We all want our parents to live long, healthy and active lives; and we need to plan to ensure we are prepared to help make that happen.”

Local participants in the “Family Matters” Seminar will include Senior Services Associates of Kendall County, local assisted and supportive senior living facilities, nursing home care, in-home care, and financial planning.

“The goal of this seminar is to help families understand what the options are and where they can go for more help and information. I encourage seniors and their families to join us, and begin making a plan together,” said Representative Cross.

For more information on the “Family Matters” Seminar, please contact Lois Maguire at Representative Cross’s office at 815-254-0000 or e-mail tom@tomcross.com.

Shorewood — Illinois House Rep. Tom Cross (R-Oswego) invites all residents of the 97^th District to attend his traveling office hours in Shorewood on Tuesday, April 16, 2013. 

“This is a good opportunity for residents to meet with our staff and discuss state government issues,” said Cross.  “We are always happy to hear the concerns, opinions and suggestions from our constituents.”  

The purpose of traveling office hours is to provide access and services to constituents at a convenient location and time. 

The traveling office hours will be held on Tuesday, April 16, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Shorewood-Troy Library boardroom located at 650 Deerwood in Shorewood.

A member of Rep. Cross’ district office staff will be available to meet with residents. 

For more information, please contact Rep. Cross’ district office at (815) 254-0000.

Springfield…With the Illinois General Assembly facing its most difficult budget challenges in generations, House Republicans today stressed the need for passage of a new, effective Constitutional Amendment that will require lawmakers to pass a budget that is truly balanced – or not be paid.

“Our current balanced budget provision in the state Constitution has no ‘teeth’, and as a result, some General Assemblies and Governors have used accounting tricks to get around it, or simply ignored it altogether with no real consequences to themselves. The consequences to our budget, however, have been devastating. That has to stop now. We need to inject some true accountability into the state budget process,” said House Republican Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego).

Today House Republicans introduced House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 32 to put real “teeth” into the state’s balanced budget requirement. It demands that within 30 days of the enactment of a budget, the Auditor General’s Office must certify that the budget will be balanced with expenses not exceeding expected revenue. If the Auditor General declares that the budget is not balanced then the Comptroller will:

o Stop payment for the salary of General Assembly members and Constitutional Officers; and

o Stop all payments, besides those affecting public safety of the State, required by law, or required by the federal government

“For several years now, lawmakers have passed budgets that were absolutely unbalanced, leaving billions in unpaid bills,” said Representative Bill Mitchell (R-Forsyth). “It’s time to hold
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state government accountable to the taxpayers. Our balanced budget amendment will force lawmakers and the Governor to put their money where their mouths are. Pass a truly balanced budget or don’t get paid. This is a common-sense fiscal reform that is sorely needed in Springfield.”

“In the past, tricks and gimmicks have been used to create the illusion of a balanced budget,” said Representative Tom Demmer (R-Dixon). “This new amendment sends a simple, clear warning to the General Assembly and the Governor: we need to do our jobs or we won’t get paid.”

HJRCA 32 also requires that within 10 days of the Auditor General declaring the budget is not balanced, the General Assembly must convene to address the unbalanced budget. Upon passage of a new budget, the Auditor General must certify if it is balanced, and only then will the Comptroller be allowed to continue payments.

If at any time the current fiscal year budget becomes unbalanced, the Comptroller must alert the General Assembly and Governor. The same protocol must then be followed as if the Auditor General declared the budget unbalanced.

“As a certified public accountant and a former small business owner, I know what it means to balance the books. If a private business operated like state government, that business would go under in the first year,” said Representative Pam Roth (R-Morris). “This constitutional amendment not only requires the state to operate within its means, but it increases transparency by providing an impartial evaluation by the Auditor General.”

If adopted by the General Assembly, the new constitutional balanced budget amendment would then be placed on the ballot for approval by voters statewide in 2014.

“This is about respect for hard working taxpayers, for businesses that contract with the state, and for families that rely on state services. They deserve an honest, balanced budget that actually delivers what it promises. Enacting a new, strong balanced budget amendment will help ensure that’s what they get from us each and every year,” said Representative Ed Sullivan Jr. (R-Mundelein).

House Republicans have created a webpage where the public can add their name to a petition showing their support for a truly balanced budget.  Click here to sign the petition.

by Denise Crosby

State Republicans have declared it’s time to take the kid gloves off. 

House Republican Leader Tom Cross, our representative from Oswego, was part of a group that last week introduced new legislation they believe will help keep children safer from shootings that have grabbed national headlines and placed yet another black eye on the state of Illinois.

Click here to read the entire article.

Published on RebootIL.com:

Reps. Nekritz and Cross present HB3411 in committee on Thursday, March 14, 2013.

Since pension negotiations began more than three years ago, the General Assembly has failed to enact badly needed reforms to help deal with the $96 billion unfunded liability in state’s pension systems. I have filed and supported countless bills and concepts along the way; though, none have been as promising as the comprehensive pension reform package that passed out of the House Personnel and Pensions Committee Thursday.

Receiving significant support from members of all four caucuses, including 32 sponsors in the House, House Bill 3411 gives the General Assembly the best shot at achieving a bipartisan consensus that will ultimately save the Illinois pension system for hardworking government workers, while remaining affordable to taxpayers.

Please click here to read the entire article.