SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Legislation to expand the legal definition of stalking in state statute could soon become law.
Sponsors told WAND News this bill could help victims obtain a stalking no-contact order more easily if the victim feels under emotional distress.Â
Victims would have the ability to seek legal relief if they receive multiple phone calls from a stalker after telling them to stop, they are repeatedly appearing at the victim's workplace or outside their home, or following 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."
House Bill 2873 passed unanimously out of the Illinois House and Senate this spring. The measure could take effect immediately if signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker.Â
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