State Sen. Adam Gomez
Reminder Publishing file photo
SPRINGFIELD — January 2026 marks the middle of the state’s two-year legislative session, and Reminder Publishing reached out to lawmakers to discuss their goals for the year ahead. State Sen. Adam Gomez shared his priorities and what bills he is focused on.
“With ICE raids still threatening our communities and ongoing funding challenges under the current federal administration,” the Springfield Democrat said, “I’ve filed legislation to end 287(g) agreements,” which authorize ICE to delegate immigration officer functions to state and local law enforcement.
The legislation would also establish an immigration legal defense fund.
“These are common sense, dignity-driven policies that reflect our values and our responsibility to stand up for the people who call our state home,” he said.
Gomez is continuing work on bills he launched in 2025, including and amendment to the state’s cannabis legislation. The legislation would prohibit any cannabis seller licensed under state law from receiving credit from a distributor for more than 60 days. Anyone in violation of this would receive a $5,000 fine. It would also create a list of licensees in violation of this rule and prohibit cannabis sale or delivery for credit and prevents a change in ownership of the license until the violation is settled. The bill provides an opportunity to apply for an exception if the business is “seriously damaged” by circumstances beyond the owner’s control, including rioting, fire, explosion or an act of God. The bill is in the process of being reconciled with a similar bill in the state House of Representatives.
The senator also supports the so-called “Raise the Age” bill, which would increase the age at which offenders are no longer processed under the juvenile justice system from age 18 to age. 21. Proponents of raising the age point out that 18-year-olds are not considered mature enough to legally purchase or consume alcohol, tobacco or cannabis. They argue that maturity should be similarly considered in the legal system, although opponents note that 18-year-olds can vote and serve in the military.
The final priority for Gomez is housing access. He has filed legislation that would legislation to improve emergency housing assistance for children and families experiencing homelessness, prohibit landlords from running credit reports on tenants with housing subsidies and create a program to help recently incarcerated people understand housing options, find pathways to housing and receive financial supports.
