Mayfield Inaugurated for New Term, Emphasizes Work to Improve Public Safety and Local Environment

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Rita Mayfield, D-Waukegan, issued the following statement Wednesday as she began a new legislative term:

“As we begin a new General Assembly, we must look to create a stronger Illinois that meets the challenges facing every family. Residents are looking toward us to spark economic development, improve educational outcomes for our children and responsibly tackle violence.

“Public safety continues to be a critical issue for me. As chair of the Appropriations-Public Safety Committee, I will continue to advocate for violence prevention, opportunities for vulnerable populations to thrive and innovative investments in safer communities. We need to build on recent progress – from large investments in summer jobs and after-school programs to keep kids in safe and positive environments, to ensuring that Illinois residents cannot purchase or possess certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines. 

“We also need to continue our efforts that support a healthier environment, including work to ensure that toxic coal ash does not contaminate our groundwater, waterways and air. As we saw with the closing of the Waukegan Generating Station, it takes significant effort to appropriately clean up a coal-fired power plant. We owe it to nearby residents to do the job fully and to do the job right. Springfield needs to be ready to step in as necessary.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to serve as this community’s voice in Springfield, and am looking forward to the start of this new chapter. I know that if we work together and build consensus, we can help Illinois move forward in becoming a smart, compassionate and safe state for all people. Let’s get to work.”