Elgin lawmaker wants drug offenders to pay for police costs

Rep. Keith Farnham, an Elgin Democrat, has sponsored legislation that would require offenders convicted of drug offenses to cover the police's cost to bust them. File

SPRINGFIELD -- State lawmakers are advancing a new proposal that could force people convicted on marijuana and meth charges to pay fines to cover the police's cost to bust them.

Sponsored by Rep. Keith Farnham, an Elgin Democrat, the plan was approved by the Illinois House this week.

The idea came from Elgin police officer Chris Jensen and Lt. Jeff Adam, who has suggested taxpayers shouldn't have to pay for the costs of others' illegal activities.

"These fines will be another tool to discourage the sale of drugs and will help keep our streets and communities safe," Farnham said.

Another Farnham plan, to ask for federal money for a statewide anti-gang program, also was approved by the House.

Both were approved without a single "no" vote on the House floor. Both move to the Senate now, for further debate.

Sen. Mike Noland, an Elgin Democrat, will sponsor the reimbursement proposal in the Senate.