Pritzker says IL crime rate significantly down, but governor is open to SAFE-T Act tweaks

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker is defending the Pretrial Fairness Act following renewed criticism from law enforcement across the state.

The Democrat told reporters at an unrelated event Tuesday that the Illinois crime rate has gone down significantly since the criminal justice reform took effect.

Pritzker said he also believes Illinois is doing a better job of justly holding violent criminals in jail instead of forcing people who can't afford bail to sit behind bars.

"We have virtually the same percentage of people showing up for trial under the SAFE-T Act than we did before the SAFE-T Act," Pritzker said. "So, it is effective at keeping violent criminals in jail and letting those who are not violent criminals await trial not serving in jail."

Still, Pritzker said he is open to suggestions for changes to the SAFE-T Act.

Multiple Republicans have filed bills to repeal the law over the past two years. However, GOP lawmakers with law enforcement experience have introduced plans to require anyone charged with domestic violence or sex offenses be detained.

"They need to have us at the table because obviously what they've done, they need to live with," said Rep. John Cabello (R-Machesney Park). "It's time that the public starts holding them accountable for it."

The Illinois Senate started the 2026 session on Jan. 13 while state representatives will report to Springfield for their first day of session Jan. 20.

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