Manley Awards Local Firefighter; Advances Bill Honoring Veterans, Police, and Firefighters

This week, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, awarded a local firefighter for his heroic actions, and passed a bill out of a House committee strengthening laws against vandalizing memorials for veterans, police, or firefighters. 

Months ago while off duty, John Batusich, a Lockport Township Firefighter, happened to pass by a house in Crest Hill that was on fire. He broke into the burning house to rescue any residents, but instead, he found that the homeowner had been murdered. His heroic actions preserved critical evidence that led to a conviction. On Thursday, he received Manley’s House Resolution 298, and the Medal of Honor Award at the 20th Annual Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service and Firefighter Medal of Honor Awards Ceremony at the Capitol.

“I want to thank John Batusich for his courageous rescue attempt that resulted in taking a murderer off our streets,” Manley said. “My recent legislation will increase the consequences of destroying memorials that honor heroes, like John, who risk their lives every day to protect our safety and our freedom.”

Senate Bill 2231 will increase the maximum penalties for damaging or defacing property which memorializes police officers, fire fighters, members of the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, or veterans. Currently, these penalties are already in place as it relates to schools and places of worship. SB 2231 has already passed unanimously out of the Senate, and now moves to the House floor for a full vote.

For more information, please contact Manley’s full-time constituent service office at 815-725-2741 or by email RepManley@gmail.com.