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Illinois laws passed to reduce prison overcrowding, improve public safety

Most of the legislation takes effect immediately.

The bill sponsored by West Side Illinois State Sen. Kimberly Lightford passed both the House and Senate; now it’s up to Gov. Pat Quinn to sign it.

A former Austin resident shares her story of being diagnosed in prison, an optional test now required by a new law, which she says saved her life.

The Westside Health Authority hosts a monthly meeting to provide resources and counseling to relatives.

After serving a little more than a year, the former 29th Ward alderman is now at a half-way house.

Austin native shares his struggles and gains, while encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.

The group is raising money to help women serving life sentences at Dwight Correctional Center.

People come to the West Side for a second chance. Find out who’s helping them and see some of the challenges they face.

Larry Taylor will talk about his new book and his band will perform April 4th at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Readers respond to John W. Fountain’s last column with hope. Tell us what you think.