SR1038 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1038 LRB101 20819 ECR 70539 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, This body has previously recognized that the prison experience for women offenders is different than men and requires gender-focused efforts; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois Department of Corrections has 29 adult prisons across the State; two of these correctional centers are dedicated to women inmates; and

WHEREAS, While a goal in all workplaces, gender parity should be a focus of the correctional field, particularly when involving women offenders; and

WHEREAS, The gender aspect should be taken into consideration in assignments within facilities under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections; and

WHEREAS, While female participation in law enforcement has risen, there still remains a gap in gender parity within the correctional field; and

WHEREAS, During fiscal year 2019, the Illinois Department of Corrections had 7,083 male and 1,457 female protective service employees; these workers are entrusted with public safety, security, and the protection of society from destructive forces; and

WHEREAS, The strengthening of the women workforce within the Department of Corrections should be a focus of the Department; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge the Illinois Department of Corrections to promote parity between male and female correctional officers in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be delivered to the Illinois Department of Corrections.