Norma Hernandez: 2024 candidate for Illinois House District 77

Bio

Party: Democrat

Office Sought: Illinois House District 77

City: Melrose Park

Age: 34

Occupation: State Rep IL General Assembly

Previous offices held: Triton College Trustee

How should the state respond to the influx of migrants bussed here from Southern states?

Responding effectively to an influx of migrants, such as those being bused to Illinois from Southern states, requires a multifaceted approach. This includes immediate humanitarian assistance, coordinating with local government, health care and mental health services, work permits, education and integration.

Implementing these strategies effectively will require coordination, resources, and a commitment to both immediate and long-term support for migrants. Collaboration between state agencies, local governments, community organizations, and federal partners is how we can successfully address the challenges and ensure a compassionate and organized response.

Are you satisfied with the state's existing ethics policies for senators and representatives? If so, what about the policies should reassure Illinoisans that elected leaders abide by high standards? If not, what changes need to be made?

I believe Illinois has come a long way in strengthening their state ethics policies and establishing a framework for ethical conduct which include regulating around lobbying, campaign finance reporting that get filed quarterly and is accessible to the public. I believe there is always room for improvement in enhancing policies that ensure even higher standards of integrity.

Would you support a requirement that election petitions include a line asking candidates for their campaign email address?

Requiring election petitions to include a line asking candidates for their campaign email address could offer several advantages and facilitate a more transparent and accessible electoral process. I would have to weigh in the pros and cons first before making a decision.

How well do you think criminal justice reforms made in recent years are working? What, if any, changes need to be made?

I believe the passage of the pretrial fairness act was an amazing accomplishment for the state of Illinois and country. Criminal justice reform has been long overdue and being able to eliminate cash bail and establish a system where pretrial detention decisions are based on public safety and flight risk rather than an individual's ability to pay is the right thing to do.

There have also been great changes made in preventing automatic prosecutions for minors as adults, and addressing disparities in sentencing and increasing transparency and accountability in policing. There is still more work to do so we must continue evaluation, adjustment, and community engagement is essential to enhancing the overall justice system.

We now have an assault weapons ban in Illinois. What if any changes should be made to the law? What more can be done to improve gun safety?

The assault weapons ban in Illinois represents a significant step toward addressing gun violence and improving public safety. Evaluating and enhancing such legislation involves assessing its effectiveness, identifying gaps, and considering additional measures to further improve gun safety.

Areas we can improve are addressing accessories and modifications that can increase the lethality of firearms, such as high-capacity magazines and bump stocks and strengthening background checks and mental health evaluations, especially those with records of being violent.

Illinois is the only state in the nation that mandates regular behind-the-wheel tests for senior drivers. Do you support any changes?

While the current policy of regular behind-the-wheel tests for senior drivers in Illinois is intended to enhance road safety, it may be beneficial to explore alternative approaches that address individual driving capabilities rather than age alone.

Potential changes could include more personalized assessments, educational programs, and support systems designed to help seniors maintain safe driving practices while avoiding unnecessary burdens. Balancing safety with respect for individual dignity and autonomy is key in refining this policy.

What personal qualifications do you bring that would make you an effective legislator?

Not only does my background as a social worker and urban planner help me understand the broader changes that need to be made, but I also bring personal experiences that are directly related to the experiences of my constituents all across my district.

I come from a hard working, immigrant family that has had to work hard to reach the American dream, something families in my district do everyday. But it’s my diverse background that also gives me the patience, compassion, and humility that is sorely needed in Springfield to truly represent my district in the truest way.