SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan to expand the legal definition of stalking in state statute has become law in Illinois.

Sponsors said this law can help victims obtain a stalking no-contact order more easily if the victim feels under emotional distress.

Victims will have the ability to seek relief if they receive multiple phone calls from a stalker after telling them to stop, they repeatedly appear at the victim's workplace or outside their home, or follow the victim in a public place.

"This fills a gap in existing law," said Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview). "Currently, there is no clear order of protection on the basis of harassment. It does include expressed free speech protections, and there is no opposition."

This legislation passed unanimously out of the Illinois House and Senate this spring. House Bill 2873 took effect last month. 

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