Illinois Republicans are pushing back against newly signed legislation that they say weakens oversight of the Prisoner Review Board (PRB) and puts public safety at risk.

Senate Bill 19, signed recently by Gov. Pritzker, makes sweeping changes to the Illinois’ PRB including extending member terms from six to eight years. Republicans warn this move shields gubernatorial appointees from accountability at a time when the PRB should be facing more thorough vetting.

The Prisoner Review Board is responsible for determining whether specific individuals, often found guilty of serious offenses, should be granted release. During Governor Pritzker’s administration, the board approved a significantly higher number of releases compared to previous governors, including in several notable cases involving convicted murderers.

Just last year, a parolee released by the board stabbed his ex-girlfriend killed and killed an 11-year-old boy less than 24 hours after his release, an incident that sparked outrage from Republican lawmakers who had repeatedly tried to warn about issues with the board.

The law takes effect immediately.