Blair-Sherlock backs SB0248 to allow certain young felony offenders additional post-conviction petition rights

During the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock (D-46th) cast a Yes vote for SB0248, which would permit felony offenders under age 21 to submit particular post-conviction petitions. The bill cleared the Illinois House with a 63-42 vote, according to the Illinois House.

The bill summary describes it as: "CRIM PRO-POST-CONVICT PETITION."

The following summary, based directly on the bill language, is provided to clarify the intent and provisions included.

This measure updates the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 to permit persons convicted of felony offenses committed when younger than 21 to file a successive post-conviction petition based on claims that their sentence violates the proportionate penalties clause of the Illinois Constitution, without having to show cause for not raising the issue earlier. The law would take effect immediately upon enactment.

The bill’s House action was recorded as 'Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed'.

Blair-Sherlock earned her AA from College of DuPage in 1985, her BS from Northern Illinois University in 1987, and a JD from John Marshall Law School in 1993.

Elected in 2023, Blair-Sherlock, a Democrat, represents the 46th House District, succeeding Deborah Conroy in the Illinois State House.

Illinois legislation follows a multi-step lawmaking process starting with introduction in either chamber, then moves to committee consideration, floor debate, and voting in both the House and Senate before heading to the governor. Conducted on a biennial basis, the General Assembly reviews thousands of bills each session and only a select number become law.