Illinois Valley Times

Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon) successfully introduced resolutions aimed at protecting legal clients and preserving a historical statue near Oregon. 

HR828 urges the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (ARDC) to look into a Supreme Court rule that requires Illinois attorneys disclose whether their malpractice insurance as lapsed, Demmer said during House debate May 10.

After the measure was adopted by the House, Demmer introduced HR830, which “urges the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to explore ways to finance the renovation of the Eternal Indian statue at Lowden State Park in order to preserve a treasured Illinois monument for generations to come,” according to the law synopsis.

Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon)

“This is a statue that sits in Lowden State Park overlooking the beautiful Rock River valley in my district just outside the community of Oregon,” Demmer said.

Demmer said the statue of Chief Black Hawk designed by sculptor Lorado Taft has fallen into disrepair in recent years.

“The community has gone through great lengths to raise money to help with the restoration and preservation of the statue,” Demmer said.

Calling it a cultural and economic landmark, Demmer encouraged support for the resolution. 

Both resolutions were adopted and moved to the Senate.