Schoenberg challenged for leniency on sex offenders

Jeff Schoenberg Voted for SB 121 in 2007; Vetoed by Governor because bill “condones leniency for sex offenders”

KENILWORTH, IL — After it was revealed that Jeff Schoenberg had voted for sex education for kindergarteners, 9th District State Senate Candidate Brendan Appel called on State Senator Jeff Schoenberg to explain why he voted for SB 121, a bill that reduced  registration requirements for juvenile sex offenders.

“We elect our representatives to pass legislation to keep our neighborhoods safe,” said Appel. “However, when a bill like this comes along that flies in the face of common-sense public policy, it really makes you wonder who Jeff Schoenberg is looking out for.” SB 121 lessened registration requirements and allows some registered sex offenders to petition to be released from the registration requirement, while allowing felons to petition to be released after five years.

“There he goes again - Jeff Schoenberg thought it would be good public policy to help sex offenders move more freely throughout our state.  As a husband and a father, I cannot believe that any elected official would support a piece of legislation that is this dangerous,” said Appel.

SB 121 passed the Senate in May of 2007.  On August 24th, Governor Blagojevich vetoed the legislation adding, “I am concerned that this bill condones leniency toward sex offenders.”  The Governor’s veto was overridden and the bill became law in October of 2007.