IllinoisPolice would have to issue citations for eligible lower-level offenses
People accused of certain lower-level offenses who show proper identification would generally receive a citation instead of being taken into custody, with exceptions for listed safety or conduct concerns.
What it does
For covered accusations, officers would have to issue a citation instead of making a custodial arrest when the person shows proper identification, unless a listed safety or conduct exception applies.
Argument forPeople accused of covered offenses who show proper identification could avoid being taken into custody when none of the listed exceptions applies.
Argument againstPeople accused of covered offenses could still be taken into custody if an officer sees a safety risk or the person keeps offending after a citation.
More detail
Law enforcement would have to issue a citation instead of making a custodial arrest for a covered accusation when the person shows proper identification. This applies to people accused of offenses that are not felonies or Class A or B misdemeanors. An officer may make a custodial arrest if the officer reasonably believes the person poses a threat to someone or the community, if criminal activity continues after a citation, or if an obvious medical or mental health issue puts the person's safety at risk. These exceptions permit arrest but do not require it; the text also leaves officers free to decline a custodial arrest.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Aug 13Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Tony M. McCombieLatest
- 2025
- Mar 4Referred to Rules Committee
- Mar 4First ReadingMinor
- Feb 27Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Daniel J. UgasteIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety