Yingling Supports Legislation to Protect Essential Workers

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – In response to the increased reliance on essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, voted to strengthen penalties on criminals who attack essential workers.

“Essential workers have gone above and beyond in helping their communities during this pandemic,” Yingling said. “Protecting essential workers is critical to overall public safety, which is why I fought to deter criminals from physically harming these workers.”

Yingling supported Senate Bill 471, a bipartisan bill that classifies physically attacking an essential worker while they are on the job as aggravated battery. The measure was introduced to protect essential workers due to an increase of attacks on the job.

“It is unacceptable that there are individuals looking to harm the people who are putting their health and safety on the line to keep the community safe,” Yingling said. “I stand with essential workers, and will continue to look for ways to support them and the vital work they do.”

Senate Bill 471 passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support, and is waiting on the Governor’s signature to become law.