Republican Leader Jim Durkin Praises Accomplishments of Departing Rep. John Anthony

Reacting to the official notice that State Rep. John Anthony (R-Joliet) is resigning his position as State Representative of the 75th District, House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) today is praising Anthony for his service and accomplishments.

“When John was appointed in August of 2013 he immediately hit the ground running and was able to accomplish much in a very short time frame. A former law enforcement officer, John quickly became a go-to guy on issues related criminal justice and corrections. His expertise and insight on these matters will be missed.”  

According to Durkin, Rep. Anthony’s biggest achievement was chief co-sponsorship and passage of a bipartisan, comprehensive heroin reform package. House Bill 1 (Lang-Anthony) includes provisions for a prescription return program, expanded use of drug courts, improved data collection, and providing a drug that counteracts heroin overdoses to first responders.

“John Anthony worked collaboratively with Republicans and Democrats from both chambers to craft and pass meaningful legislation to combat the growing epidemic of heroin and opioid abuse in Illinois,” said Durkin.  “His effort is saving lives.”

“The next chapter in John’s public career will be in the Illinois Department of Corrections. I know he will approach his new position with the same passion and determination he exhibited in the House of Representatives. My best to John and his family.”