SB0595sam001 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Sen. Don Harmon

Filed: 4/4/2024

10300SB0595sam001 LRB103 03067 AWJ 71228 a

AMENDMENT TO SENATE BILL 595

AMENDMENT NO. ______. Amend Senate Bill 595 by replacing everything after the enacting clause with the following:

"Section 5. The Counties Code is amended by adding Section 3-4000.2 as follows:

(55 ILCS 5/3-4000.2 new)

Sec. 3-4000.2. Office of Public Defense Trial Support. Notwithstanding any provision in this Division to the contrary, the Supreme Court is encouraged to establish a framework for a statewide Office of Public Defense Trial Support. The duties of the Office of Public Defense Trial Support may include, but are not limited to: (1) providing support to public defenders upon request; and (2) in conjunction with other interested parties, facilitating a strategic planning process designed to enhance public defender services and ensure that effective assistance of counsel is rendered regardless of the jurisdiction in which charges are brought. Subject to appropriation and at the direction of the Supreme Court, the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts shall provide administrative and other support to the Office of Public Defense Trial Support through June 30, 2026.

Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect upon becoming law.".