02
Sep
2015
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Students starting college this fall will have more support and security to combat sexual assault thanks to a new law supported by state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale.
"A college education can be a great resource, and no one should have their safety at risk while they gain an education," Smiddy said. "Sexual violence affects far too many young people on campuses right here in Illinois, and by incorporating the ideas of organizations and advocates across the state, students will have more resources and help."
The new law that Smiddy backed, Public Act 99-0426, requires institutions of higher learning to offer victims and witnesses of sexual assault more options to report incidents confidentially. Schools must make confidential advisors available, have better systems in place to make students aware of their options, train students and employees to improve responsiveness to allegations, and adopt a uniform process for addressing and adjudicating sexual violence.
"As a father, I want my kids to have a safe, secure place to learn and grow," Smiddy. "This new law will help colleges create a community where sexual violence is not tolerated, and students feel protected, listened to, and supported."
Public Act 99-0426 was signed into law and took effect on August 21.
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