SPRINGFIELD — Veterans could soon gain expanded access to rehabilitation treatment through the Veteran and Servicemember Court program under a proposal that was approved in the Senate Criminal Law Committee yesterday. The measure, sponsored by State Senator Tony Munoz (D-Chicago), allows veterans to request to participate in the Veterans Treatment Court after sentencing.

Often veterans do not recognize they have a problem or want to address the issue until after sentencing.  At that point, under current law, they are no longer eligible to receive assistance.

“Unfortunately, a number of our veterans are struggling with substance and alcohol abuse as a result of their time in the Armed Forces, and we need to make sure they can take advantage of programs that help with their reintegration,” said Munoz, an Army veteran.

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SPRINGFIELD -   In Texas, school bus safety cameras captured the horrifying image of an SUV driver plowing into a student crossing the street after getting off the bus.

http://abc13.com/news/video-drivers-plow-into-2-austin-students-near-bus-stops/1495769/

Thankfully, the student suffered only minor injuries, but as the video has made its rounds on the Internet, Illinois Senator Tony Munoz is reminding students and drivers of the dangers of distracted driving and that Illinois similarly empowers local schools to use school bus safety cameras.

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CHICAGO- State Senator Antonio “Tony” Munoz (D-Chicago) joined community leaders along with state and city officials to celebrate the return of the 31st Street bus on Tuesday.

“Implementing this route provides access to employment opportunities and links residents with other bus routes and train stations, creating an easier way to reach more destinations,” Munoz said.

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