JoAnn D. Osmond - Press Releases

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Statement on Governor’s ‘State of the State’ Address

SPRINGFIELD – Assistant Republican Leader and State Rep. JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) released the following statement today in response to Governor Pat Quinn’s annual “State of the State” address to a joint session of the General Assembly in Springfield on Wednesday:

“The Governor acknowledged the enormous pressures of pension and Medicaid debt on our state budget, yet fell short of outlining a realistic and pro-growth plan to lead Illinois out of the spending wilderness and back on the path of private sector job creation.  Reducing taxes on employers who create jobs in Illinois and reforming our crippling regulatory policies are the keys to unleashing real economic growth. I am ready to work with the Governor and my colleagues across to aisle to find common ground so that together we can truly reform spending and get government off the backs of the small business men and women who are the economic engine that drives Illinois.”

Please click here to read an editorial from yesterday’s State Journal-Register for an honest assessment of Illinois’ fiscal crisis with a link to a report by the Institute for Illinois’ Fiscal Sustainability at the Civic Federation with ideas for what can be done to begin addressing these issues today.

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Signs Law Inspired by Antioch H.S. Students

Student-Initiated Prescription Drug Disposal Program Becomes Law

ANTIOCH – Governor Pat Quinn signed a new state law Wednesday creating an innovative prescription drug collection and disposal program utilizing local law enforcement agencies across Illinois as a drop-off site for the incineration of unused drugs. House Bill 2056, sponsored by Assistant Republican Leader JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) was inspired by the work of an Antioch High School student group, who traveled to Springfield in March to testify on behalf of the legislation at a House Environmental Health Committee hearing.

Four years ago, an innovative Prescription Pill and Drug Disposal program, called P2D2, was launched by students at Pontiac Township High School in downstate Livingston County who were concerned about the threat of prescription drugs polluting local groundwater. The program has since spread to other communities and states. Antioch High School students heard about the program and brought the idea to Osmond.

“This exceptional initiative will prevent the contamination of our drinking water, protect wildlife, and help keep drugs out of the hands of teens,” Rep. Osmond said. “I commend the students from Antioch High School for their hard work in bringing this important issue to the forefront and helping us shape a positive solution for the benefit of everyone in Illinois when it comes to disposing of unused prescription drugs.”

Under HB 2056, local law enforcement agencies across the state would be authorized to collect pharmaceuticals from residential sources and incinerate them safely in a manner consistent with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency standards. Law enforcement agencies would recoup the cost of incinerating the drugs through a $20 court fee added to every drug arrest in Illinois. Each police department that participates would be able to get a grant to cover the cost associated with disposal of prescription drugs collected under the program.

HB 2056 passed the Illinois House unanimously on April 7 before securing final approval from the State Senate on May 22. Senator Suzi Schmidt (R-Lake Villa) sponsored the bill in the Senate.

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State Acts to Protect Stable Keepers from Financial Loss

CHICAGO – Governor Pat Quinn signed a new state law Thursday to help protect stable keepers from financial loss when horses are abandoned on their property. The legislation, House Bill 3012, was introduced and sponsored by State Rep. JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) in response to concerns brought to her by a local constituent.

With the current state of the economy, stable keepers are experiencing increased numbers of abandoned horses.  People are stabling their horses, but then not paying for the service.  Others are simply abandoning their horses in other people’s pastures.  There is currently no easy means for these stable keepers to deal with these abandoned horses.  A mechanism needs to be established for stable keepers to have the ability to sell these abandoned horses and recoup their costs.

As a result, Rep. Osmond introduced House Bill 3012 to allow for stable keepers to have a lien for the cost of unpaid boarding and related expenses for a horse that is enforceable through the sale of the horse and other personal property stored by the owner at the stable or boarding facility by public or private sale.

Under the law, enforcement of the lien must be made by public sale of the horse or any personal property left on the premises, unless the written boarding agreement provides a clear authorization that the horse and any personal property left on the premises may be sold through a private sale or provides a clear authorization that the keeper may take ownership of the horse and any personal property left on the premises to satisfy the lien. 

The new law also specifies that prior to enforcement of the lien through public or private sale, the stable keeper must make a written demand for payment from the owner of the horse and include notice that the horse and any personal property left on the premises will be sold at a date certain at least 30 days after the service of the demand for payment if payment of all amounts due is not made by the day set for the sale.

HB 3012 was unanimously approved by both the Illinois House and Senate in May and was signed by the Governor today.

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Telecom Tower Public Notice & Lake County Forest Preserve Bond Extension Bills Secure Final Approval

SPRINGFIELD - Two bills sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) secured final approval from the State Senate this week, clearing their final legislative hurdle before being sent to Governor Pat Quinn for approval.

House Bill 1127, approved unanimously by the State Senate on Wednesday, will extend the current 5-year deadline for issuing bonds approved by voter referendum in November 2008 to support the Lake County Forest Preserve District, a move to help keep the tax rate stable and improve transparency for voters regarding the approximate property tax impact of the bond referenda.

"We can preserve the beauty and quality of Lake County's natural landscape for the benefit of both our families and the environment without raising property taxes on already-overtaxed homeowners," Rep. Osmond said. "Extending the deadline for issuing the remaining $75 million in bonds will help the Lake County Forest Preserve follow through on commitments made in the referendum despite the decline in property values in recent years due to the nationwide housing crisis."

Meanwhile, House Bill 156 would establish public notice requirements upon companies who intend to build new telecommunication and AM broadcast towers. Companies planning to construct a tower would be required to provide notice to the State Representative, State Senator, and all the county board members for the district of the where the tower is to be constructed. The legislation was unanimously approved by the State Senate on Tuesday.

"Local communities and residents should have a right to know how their neighborhoods will be impacted by the timing and construction of these towers," Rep. Osmond said. "By requiring public notice to local and state officials prior to the construction of a new tower, we can ensure that local residents will know that a new tower is coming to their area before it is actually built."

Both HB 1127 and HB 156 have now been sent to Governor Pat Quinn for signature.

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Osmond Re-Appointed Asst. House Leader

Local Legislator to Maintain Key Role in Shaping Major Policy Issues

SPRINGFIELD –State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) is pleased to announce her re-appointment this week to the position of Assistant Minority Leader in the Illinois House of Representatives. First appointed Assistant Leader in 2009, Osmond plans to use her leadership role to give northern Lake County families a stronger voice in Springfield during the new 97th General Assembly scheduled to reconvene on February 1.

“I am honored to accept this opportunity to help lead our caucus and our state with a clear focus on the need to create jobs and relieve the burden on all our working families and local small businesses who continue to struggle in today’s economy,” Osmond said. “First and foremost, government must learn to live within its means and stop overspending money we do not have. The recent income tax hike signed by Governor Quinn actually allows for spending increases over each of the next four years. We must work to repeal that provision and roll back the tax increase to force government to fix its own spending problem.”

In making the appointment, House Minority Leader Cross (R-Oswego) stressed Osmond’s work ethic and range of experience as decisive factors in her selection. “With the knowledge and passion of a small business owner, working mother and grandmother, and an expert on health care, insurance, and public safety issues, JoAnn Osmond is a key part of our leadership team working to move Illinois forward and get our economy moving again,” Cross said.

A member of the General Assembly since 2002, Representative Osmond most recently served as the Minority Spokesperson on the Health Care Availability Committee as well as serving on the Insurance, Civil Law, Veterans Affairs, and Telecommunications, Labor, and Rules Committees.

A longtime community activist, public servant, and former small business owner, Osmond brings to her role as Assistant Leader a lifetime of experience making positive change in her community and for the State of Illinois. Osmond is a recognized leader on health care, public safety, and insurance issues and is also a recognized fiscal conservative and advocate for reductions in government spending and budget reforms.

Representative Osmond can be contacted through her District Office located at 976 Hillside Ave. in Antioch, by phone at (847)838-6200 or via e-mail at reposmond@aol.com

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House Approves Spending Control Measure

Resolution would establish a lower revenue estimate than Gov.’s proposed budget

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House of Representatives gave unanimous approval to a resolution Tuesday designed to reduce state spending; setting the table for lawmakers to identify realistic cuts totaling up to $2 Billion for the upcoming FY 2012 budget.

House Resolution 110, sponsored jointly by House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) and Minority Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego), would establish a state revenue estimate of $33.2 Billion for FY2012, a full $2.2 Billion lower than Governor Quinn’s proposed estimate of $35.4 Billion. Passage of HR 110 paves the way for lawmakers to enact realistic spending cuts.  State spending is based on the annual revenue estimate agreed to by the General Assembly.

State Representative and Assistant Republican Leader JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) lauded passage of the resolution and pointed to the consistent work of House Republicans in leading the effort for meaningful budget and spending reforms as the catalyst for Tuesday’s bipartisan approval of HR 110.

“For the first time in years, this resolution has created a framework for budget negotiations by agreeing to realistic revenue projections, enabling us to enact reductions to ensure state spending matches actual revenues,” Rep. Osmond said.

“Today’s resolution adopts the same simple budgeting philosophy families use every day – start with the most conservative estimate for how much money you’ll be bringing in, then work out a plan to pay bills and meet expenses without exceeding that limit,” Osmond added. “This is a positive first step.”

The General Assembly faces a statutory deadline of May 31 to approve a state budget for the new fiscal year which begins July 1.

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House Approves Fingerprint Background Checks for Public Insurance Adjustors

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation Thursday to allow the Department of Insurance to conduct fingerprint background checks on all applicants for a Public Insurance Adjuster license. The measure is designed to strengthen consumer protection and prevent individuals from misrepresenting themselves as public adjusters by requiring a fingerprint background check for both new and returning applicants for a public insurance adjustor license.

House Bill 1128, introduced and sponsored by Assistant House Republican Leader and State Rep. JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch), was approved by House by a vote of 113-0 Thursday and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

 “Consumers have a right to have full faith and confidence that the individuals they depend on for their family’s insurance claims are in fact licensed and reputable,” said Osmond, a member of and former Republican Spokesperson on the House Insurance Committee. “This legislation is a strong consumer protection measure.”

The legislation also stipulates that an individual who applies for a public adjuster license in Illinois who was previously licensed in another state based on a public adjuster examination shall not be required to complete a separate examination in Illinois. The bill also reinserts disclosures required in the solicitation of insurance policies by insurance producers, limited insurance representatives, or temporary insurance producers for individual life or accident and health coverage and master policies for life or accident and health group coverage; a provision that was inadvertently omitted in the rewrite of the public insurance adjusters provisions of the Illinois Insurance Code enacted last year.

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House Approves 5-Yr. Extension for ’08 Lake County Forest Preserve Bond Issue

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House of Representatives approved legislation Thursday to extend the current 5-year deadline for issuing bonds approved by voter referendum in November 2008 to support the Lake County Forest Preserve District, a move to help keep the tax rate stable and improve transparency for voters regarding the approximate property tax impact of the bond referenda.

House Bill 1127, introduced and sponsored by Assistant House Republican Leader and State Rep. JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch), was approved by House by an 81-33 vote Thursday and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

“We can preserve the beauty and quality of Lake County’s natural landscape for the benefit of both our families and the environment without raising property taxes on already-overtaxed homeowners,” Rep. Osmond said. “Extending the deadline for issuing the remaining $75 million in bonds will help the Lake County Forest Preserve follow through on commitments made in the referendum despite the decline in property values in recent years due to the nationwide housing crisis.”

In November 2008, 66% of Lake County voters authorized the Lake County Forest Preserve District to issue $185 million of bonds for land preservation, habitat restoration, trails and other public improvements. Public information materials for that Forest Preserve referendum stated that approval of the bonds would not increase a homeowner’s tax rate because older bonds were being paid off at the same time that the new bonds were being issued. The tax rate and bond projections were based on the very conservative assumption of a flat countywide Equalized Assessed Valuation (EAV) for the following 20 years. However, Lake County has experienced unprecedented declines in its EAV since 2008.

To date, $110 million of the Forest Preserve bonds have been issued and the bond issues have been structured to keep the tax rate stable. Anticipated further declines and very slow recovery of the EAV are severely limiting the Forest Preserve District’s options for keeping both of its promises to voters: 1) to issue a total of $185 million to purchase and improve additional natural lands and open spaces; and, 2) to keep the tax rate stable. Having the flexibility to issue the remaining $75 million of voter-approved bonds over an additional five-year period would help the District keep both promises.

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Quinn Budget Short on Cuts; High on Borrowing

Governor’s Budget Calls for $8.75 Billion in New Debt; $1.7 Billion in New Spending

SPRINGFIELD – Governor Pat Quinn delivered his annual budget address to a joint session of the General Assembly today, calling on the legislature to approve an $8.75 Billion borrowing plan in addition to $1.7 Billion in new spending for the new fiscal year which begins July 1.

Assistant House Republican Leader and State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) gave her reaction to the Governor’s budget plan today, citing concern over spending increases and misplaced priorities on the need for budget cuts.

“Just last month, Governor Quinn forced hard-pressed Illinois families and employers to bear the brunt of the largest tax increase in Illinois history,” Rep. Osmond said. “Now once again, the Governor’s budget has more spending in it than it did last year, to the tune of $1.7 Billion. If we continue to follow this path of piling on more debt and more spending year after year, we are making it virtually certain that the ‘temporary’ income tax increase will be made permanent in four years to pay for the billions in new spending and additional debt in this budget.”

“Instead of cutting off assistance to low-income seniors by eliminating the Circuit Breaker Program as the Governor proposes, we could match the same cost savings by eliminating the state’s fleet of luxury aircraft for use by state officials. That would be a more responsible cut than putting seniors on the chopping block,” Osmond added.

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Osmond Sworn In; Pledges Focus on Jobs, Economy

Local Legislator Eager to Tackle Challenges Facing Lake Co. Families

SPRINGFIELD – State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) took the oath of office for her fifth term in the Illinois House of Representatives on Wednesday in a ceremony at the University of Illinois-Springfield. All 118 members of the Illinois House were sworn in during the inaugural ceremony of the new 97th General Assembly.

“My goal is to ensure that northern Lake County remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family,” Osmond said. “We must start by working to create a business-friendly climate in Illinois to attract and retain new employers while at the same time putting an end to out-of-control government spending. The people who sent us here to represent them expect and deserve for us to be as careful with their money as we are with our own.”

A longtime community activist, public servant, former small business owner, and a proud mother and grandmother, Rep. Osmond brings to her new term a lifetime of experience making positive change in her community and for the State of Illinois. Osmond is a recognized leader in the General Assembly on public safety, health care and insurance issues and is also a tireless advocate on behalf of families and taxpayers.

Osmond has also been re-appointed to serve as Assistant Minority Leader and Republican Conference Chairperson for the new 97th General Assembly, roles which she has held for the past two years.

“I look forward to working with our new State Senator Suzi Schmidt and all of our local and county officials towards meeting the needs of the people we are privileged to serve,” Osmond added. “First and foremost should be job creation and working to restore economic opportunity for individuals and families across northern Lake County.”

Rep. Osmond named “Guardian of Small Business” by NFIB

ANTIOCH-- State Representative Joann Osmond (R- Antioch), has been named a Guardian of Small Business Award by the National Federation of Independent Businesses/Illinois.

“It is import to me to continue to support the business community in Illinois in order to help Illinois out of our crisis,” said Rep. Osmond. “I will continue to support businesses that are will to invest in Illinois and create jobs for our working families.”

Rep. Osmond was given this honor because in the 2009-2010 legislative year she voted with 100 percent of the bills the NFIB were in support of. The entire voting record is available at www.nfib.com/IL.

"In today's anemic economy, small employers need flexibility to grow their business and hire more workers," said Kim Clarke Maisch, NFIB/Illinois State Director.  "Rep. Osmond understands those struggles and has a voting record to prove it.  She one of our best allies for small business owners.  The NFIB appreciates Rep. Osmond's commitment to the free enterprise system."

The NFIB is comprised of over 10,000 Illinois small businesses that support a competitive work environment, limited government regulation and market-driven public policies.

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Osmond Commended as Champion of Free Enterprise

From a Press Release Sent Monday, July 19th, 2010


ANTIOCH, IL... Today State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R, Antioch) was announced as having received the "Champion of Free Enterprise Award" given by the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce recognizing legislators whose voting records contain strong support for the business community.

"If we are going to change the culture in Springfield, businesses and employers must be able to gauge the records of their legislators, and our legislative ratings are one way of doing that," stated Todd Maisch, the Chamber's Vice President for Government Affairs. "Legislators such as JoAnn Osmond recognize the needs of the business community and how they coincide with creating jobs in Illinois, and for that we have selected her to receive this award."

The Chamber's ratings are based on legislative votes on key business issues during the 96th General Assembly. These votes are selected and weighted based on their impact of businesses, and to and to a lesser extent the gap between opposing views on the issue. In the case of multiple roll calls, the most relevant vote has been selected.

Legislators with Illinois Chamber ratings averaging 85% or better over the previous three General Assemblies have demonstrated their commitment to legislation that frees the entrepreneurial spirit and qualify for the award. Osmond has received 100%, 89% and 100% during the past three General Assemblies putting her with three other of her colleagues for the highest average over the past three sessions.

"I have worked hard at fostering business here in Illinois and am pleased at receiving this award," stated Osmond. "My only hope is that our work pays off and our employment numbers begin to rebound here in Illinois."

The Champion of Free Enterprise Awards are given biennially and presented locally throughout the year.

As always, thank you for your continued support and I will continue to update you on important issues as they arise.

Sincerely,

JoAnn D. Osmond
Assistant Minority Leader
State Representative - 61st District

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NorthPointe Resources recognizes State Representative
JoAnn Osmond

What
NorthPointe Resources, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health illnesses, recently held its 56th annual board meeting and appreciation awards at the Killian Center on Sheridan Road in Zion.

Karl Kopp, President/CEO of NorthPointe presented the "Legislator of the Year" award to State Representative JoAnn Osmond. "Representative Osmond has really been working to improve lives by seeing if all branches of state government, state agencies and county offices can work together to communicate what is lacking or needed in caring for individual with disabilities," stated Karl Kopp.

"I’m humbled that I was selected as a recipient of this award, and look forward to continuing to work in the best interest of individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers," stated Representative JoAnn Osmond.

“Over 30 awards were presented throughout the night for community members from across Lake County, Wisconsin and as far away as DuPage County ” added Colette Berardi, of Highland Park IL, Event Chair and Board Member, “It was a great to see so many who share their time and resources to support our mission.”

Who
For over 55 years, NorthPointe Resources has helped thousands of individuals with developmental and mental disabilities, and mental illness, realize their dreams.. For more information please visit: www.NorthPointeResources.org

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Quinn Proposes Massive Tax, Fee Hikes

Blagojevich May Be Gone, But Bad Budget Policies Remain

SPRINGFIELD – Governor Pat Quinn delivered his first annual budget address to a joint session of the General Assembly today, calling for a sweeping income tax hike along with various other tax and fee increases to close a massive budget shortfall. Assistant Minority Leader and State Rep. JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) responded to how the Governor’s budget targets middle-class working families and those on fixed incomes to solve the state’s budget woes after more than six years of mismanagement by Democrats.

“The Governor’s budget is another example of misplaced priorities,” Rep. Osmond said. “We should be placing a greater emphasis on cutting government spending and bureaucratic waste instead of asking already overburdened taxpayers to foot the bill for a crisis they did not create. Taxpayers are the victims of this economy, not the culprits.”

Among the key components of Governor Quinn’s budget plan would be to raise the $78 license-plate sticker fee to $98, increasing the cigarette tax up by an additional $1-a-pack over 2 years, raising the income tax by 50% (from 3 to 4.5%), boosting the corporate tax rate to the maximum allowed under the state Constitution, skipping $5.7 billion in state pension payments over the next 3 years and cutting nearly $1.3 billion in state spending.

The state budget is currently $4.2 billion in debt and facing a shortfall of nearly $11.5 billion by the summer of 2010.

“The Governor’s plan to tax the middle class and job-creating businesses will only serve to further weaken our fragile economy,” Rep. Osmond added. “We all know that when you tax something more, the people will produce less of it. Less productivity and higher taxes means a reduction in consumer spending and a loss of revenue that we can ill afford at a time when we need to be focusing on creating jobs and strengthening our economy.”

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Lake County Legislators Seek to Block Governor

SPRINGFIELD- Working to ensure the integrity of any federal stimulus funding allocated to Illinois, State Representative Ed Sullivan (R-Mundelein) filed legislation today urging Congress to approve an amendment to the federal economic stimulus package banning Rod Blagojevich from having authority over the appropriation of Illinois’ share of any federal funding.

Joining Sullivan as co-sponsors were Representatives Sandy Cole (R-Grayslake) and JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch). The resolution, HR 25, specifically urges Congress to include in the proposed economic stimulus bill language to limit Governor Blagojevich's ability to administer and distribute federal stimulus moneys.

“As responsible public servants, we have a duty and an obligation to prevent the Governor from having any power whatsoever over federal stimulus money meant to help families and taxpayers in our struggling economy,” Sullivan said.

The resolution supports an amendment to the federal economic stimulus bill sponsored by U.S. Representatives Mark Kirk (R-10th) and Bill Foster (D-14th) to prevent Blagojevich from exercising authority of federal stimulus funding for Illinois, the only Governor in the nation singled out for exemption.

“Jumpstarting our economy and providing relief to working families must remain our first priority,” Rep. Cole said. “In tough economic times like these, we cannot afford to let politics enter into the equation over how vital stimulus funding is spent.”

Joining her colleagues in sponsoring the resolution, Rep. Osmond also highlighted the importance of the legislation in consideration of the Governor’s recent impeachment and the criminal charges he faces in a political corruption probe.

“Governor Blagojevich has violated the public trust and must not be given an opportunity to play politics with federal tax dollars meant to help those in need,” Rep. Osmond said. “Together we must urge Congress to approve this vital amendment and deliver the aid that Illinois families need.”

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House Approves Bill to Help At-Risk Homeowners
Legislation Creates 90-Day Moratorium on Home Foreclosures

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation Monday to create a 90-day moratorium on home foreclosures and strengthen existing provisions protecting homeowners from exploitation by mortgage rescue fraud.

State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) voted in favor of Senate Bill 2513 and expressed strong support for the need to give struggling homeowners time to seek an alternative to foreclosure and prevent them from being victimized by predatory practices.

“In today’s difficult housing market, it is imperative that we do everything we can to help people be able to stay in their homes and protect them from falling prey to those who would try to exploit them” Rep. Osmond said. “With foreclosures at an all-time high in Illinois, the time could not be better for us to strengthen state law to assist those at-risk.”

Specifically, the legislation seeks to protect homeowners in default from being victimized by consultants who offer them get-rich-quick schemes to save their homes. New language also caps fees charged by private sector lenders to homeowners and bans attorneys not licensed in Illinois from providing mortgage rescue services.

The 90-day moratorium for those facing foreclosure is outlined as follows under the bill:

  • The lender must send the mortgagor (borrower) an additional warning by certified mail and cannot foreclose for at least 30 days after the warning is mailed.
  • During this 30-day “window” the borrower has the right to seek approved mortgage counseling.
  • If the borrower seeks counseling, he or she will have an additional 30-day grace period to work out a mortgage refinancing plan.
  • This stays foreclosures for an additional 30 days on top of the 30 day grace period

Senate Bill 2513 now goes to the Governor for final approval after Monday’s House passage. The legislation originally won approval by the State Senate in April 2008.

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Rep. Osmond's Sex Offender Bill Signed by Governor

Antioch, IL … Legislation prohibiting sex offenders from renting property to a tenant with children, sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch), was recently signed into law.

“Through the years, keeping children safe from sex offenders has been a top priority of mine. I am very pleased the Governor signed the legislation, which is intended to add an extra layer between a sex offender and children,” said Osmond.

House Bill 4207 provides that it is a Class 4 felony for a child sex offender who owns residential real estate to knowingly rent to a person who is the parent or guardian of a child under the age of 18. The new provision applies to leases or other rental arrangements after Jan. 1 when the new law goes into effect.

Rep. Osmond said the bill was drafted after a landlord and known sex offender in her district rented property to tenants with children. The landlord would visit the property occasionally to collect rent and identify problems on the property. However, while doing so, he would be in close proximity to the children of the home.

Current law states there are no restrictions on renting to a child sex offender, only that the offender cannot live within 500 feed of schools, churches, daycares, etc.

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Geo-Karis Marina Bill Becomes Law

ANTIOCH – A bill sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) providing for the maintenance and reconstruction of the Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Marina in Winthrop Harbor was signed into law on Tuesday by Governor Rod Blagojevich, Representative Osmond's office announced today.

Representative Osmond's bill, HB 32, requires the Department of Natural Resources to formulate and implement a 10-year program to be in place by January 1, 2008 for the maintenance and reconstruction of the Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach Marina. The Senate sponsor of Representative Osmond's bill was Senator Terry Link (D-Waukegan).

“This new law will ensure the quality of the Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Marina for the use of the community and local residents for years to come,” Osmond said. “I am proud to have introduced this legislation and pleased to announce that this important community project has become law. It is vital that we establish a program to ensure the long-term quality of the marina for public recreation, and this legislation will accomplish that goal,” Osmond added. Representative Osmond led a strong bipartisan team of support on behalf of HB 32 in the House of Representatives, where it passed unanimously on February 28. The bill then moved to the Senate where it passed on May 15 before going to the Governor for approval.

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Bill Protecting Homeowners from Fraud Signed Into Law

ANTIOCH – A bill sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) protecting homeowners from consumer fraud was signed into law on Tuesday by Governor Rod R. Blagojevich, Representative Osmond's office announced today.

SB 1464, sponsored in the House by Representative Osmond, is aimed at “fly-by-night” mortgage lenders when they try to portray themselves as an affiliate of the consumer's lending bank. Most of these companies utilize public information that is available at any county recorder's office to find potential customers. Each time a mortgage is filed or refinanced, it must be filed with the local county recorder and subsequently becomes public information. Fraudulent lenders can often obtain this information and use it to misrepresent themselves as being affiliated with the homeowner's mortgage company.

The new law, SB 1464, provides that no person may send marketing materials to a consumer indicating that they are connected to the consumer's mortgage company, indicating that there is a problem with the consumer's mortgage, or stating that the marketing materials contain information concerning the consumer's mortgage, unless that person sending the marketing materials is actually employed by the consumer's mortgage company or an affiliate of the consumer's mortgage company. The bill's Senate sponsor was Senator Kimberly Lightford (D-Westchester).

“This new law is important in protecting homeowners from lenders who fraudulently misrepresent themselves as being affiliated with the homeowner's mortgage company,” Osmond said. “Homeowners have the right to expect the security of knowing that their mortgage information will not be used against them by predatory lenders attempting to deceive them for financial gain.” SB 1464 was signed into law by Governor Blagojevich on Tuesday, August 28.

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Osmond Secures Final Passage of Bill to Protect Female First Responders During Pregnancy

SPRINGFIELD – A bill sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) providing for the rights of a pregnant female peace officer or pregnant female fire fighter to request an assignment transfer for the duration of her pregnancy unanimously passed the Illinois Senate on Tuesday and will now be sent to the Governor for approval.

Representative Osmond's bill, HB 166, would amend the Illinois Human Rights Act to make it a civil rights violation for a public employer to refuse to temporarily transfer a pregnant female peace officer or a pregnant female fire fighter to a less strenuous or hazardous position for the duration of her pregnancy if she so requests, with the advice of her physician, where that transfer can be reasonably accommodated.

“This common-sense legislation will protect the rights of women serving as first responders to maintain their work responsibilities during pregnancy,” Osmond said. “Women who serve as peace officers and fire fighters put their lives on the line every single day in order to protect our communities, and they deserve the right to request a temporary transfer to a less physically demanding job assignment for the duration of their pregnancy if they so choose.” Representative Osmond's bill secured broad-based bipartisan support in the House, where it passed on March 28 before moving to the Senate. The Senate sponsor of HB 166 was Senator Michael Bond (D-Grayslake).

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Osmond Passes Bill to Improve Sedation Licensing Procedures

SPRINGFIELD – A bill sponsored by State Representative JoAnn Osmond (R-Antioch) aimed at ensuring that only licensed professionals perform anesthesia or sedation to patients under their care for dental purposes unanimously passed the House of Representatives on Tuesday by a unanimous vote of 115-0.

The legislation, SB 214, requires the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR) to establish requirements and standards in determining sedation permit qualifications for dentists and nurse anesthetists who perform sedation. The other provisions of SB 214 include:

•  Setting standards for education and training for dentists who perform sedation.

•  Ensuring properly equipped facility requirements.

•  Training requirements for those assisting the dentist during sedation.

•  Requirements that all persons must maintain current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS).

•  Requirements for continuing education for dentist with sedation permits.

•  Lists the current policy documents published that must be considered when developing these requirements so that the most updated standards are reviewed and utilized for public safety.

•  Requires a dentist to possess the appropriate sedation permit (A or B) if a certified registered nurse anesthetist is administering sedation in a dental office while the dentist performs dentistry.

Representative Osmond led a strong bi-partisan team on behalf of SB 214, which is supported by the Illinois State Dental Society, the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the Illinois State Medical Society, and the Illinois Association of Nurse Anesthetists. The Senate sponsor of SB 214 was Senator William R. Haine (D-Alton).

“It defies common sense that anyone other than a licensed professional should be able to administer general anesthesia or conscious sedation to patients under their care,” Osmond said. “Unfortunately, common sense protections of people receiving medical and dental care don't always find their way into Illinois law on their own.”

“This bill will protect everyone who enters a dentist's office by ensuring that the individual administering anesthesia or sedation to a patient is licensed by the State to perform that function. Properly licensing professionals who perform sedation is in the best interest of the patient, the dentist, and the dental office assistants and staff,” Osmond said. SB 214 will now be sent to the Governor for approval.

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Osmond: Over $60 Million for Area Projects Included in IDOT 6-Year Road Plan

ANTIOCH – Over $60 million is earmarked for road and bridge projects throughout northern Lake County in the Illinois Department of Transportation’s new 6-year plan, State Representative JoAnn Osmond said today. Osmond (R-Antioch) said the plan utilizes federal, state and in some cases local transportation funds to make needed safety repairs to roads and bridges throughout the district.

“The plan outlines the Department of Transportation’s highest priority projects over the next 6 years. I am very pleased that many crucial projects in northern Lake County made the list and will be getting underway within the next couple of years,” Osmond said.

Area projects slated to begin in Fiscal Year 2009 in the IDOT plan include:

  • Resurfacing on I-94 from the Wisconsin state line to US 41
  • Bridge replacement, interchange reconstruction, lighting, and a retaining wall on US 41 at Grand Ave.
  • Resurfacing on US 41 from IL 21 to Washington St.
  • Widening, resurfacing, and traffic signal modernization on IL 83 from the Wisconsin state line to Petite Lake Rd.
  • Intersection reconstruction and a retaining wall on IL 83 at Grand Ave.
  • Resurfacing on Grand Ave. from IL 59 to Sheehan Dr.
  • Resurfacing on IL 137 (Sheridan Rd.) from Russell Rd. to Greenwood Ave.
  • Resurfacing on IL 173 from west of I-94 to west of US 45
  • Resurfacing on IL 173 from Green Bay Rd. to Sheridan Rd.

Other projects outlined in the plan include land acquisitions on IL 83 at Grand Ave., on IL 173 west of IL 59, and on US 45 from north of Milburn Rd. to south of Milburn Rd. Several bridge rehabilitation and replacement projects are also slated to take place locally under the 6-year plan.

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Locations

District Office

976 Hillside Avenue
Antioch, Illinois 60002
PHN: (847) 838-6200
FAX: (847) 838-2060

Satellite Office

1606 23rd St., Room 228E
Zion, IL 60099

Springfield Office

201-N Stratton Office Building
Springfield, Illinois 62706
PHN: (217) 782-8151
FAX: (217) 557-7207

Illinois State Representative - 61st District - JoAnn D. Osmond

976 Hillside Avenue - Antioch, Illinois 60002
Phone: 847-838-6200 Fax: 847-838-2060