PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The SAFE-T Act, which eliminated cash bail in Illinois two years ago, continues to draw heated debate with Republicans pushing for repeal and Democrats defending it as a model for reform.

During a GOP press conference on Thursday, lawmakers decried the measure, saying it's created loopholes that allow repeat offenders back on the streets.

“This law is handcuffing law enforcement while repeat offenders are walking free. We’re seeing the same individuals back out on the street within hours,” said state Rep. Dennis Tipsword, a Woodford County Republican and also the chief deputy for the Woodford County Sheriff's Office.

But Democrats, including the bill’s sponsor, said critics are leaving out key facts. State Sen. Elgie Sims, a Chicago Democrat, defended the measure,

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