SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois Senate Republicans hope lawmakers can pass plans this spring to protect children from sex trafficking and grooming. Their legislation could close legal loopholes and increase criminal penalties for serious crimes involving children.

Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) told reporters in Springfield Thursday that one of the most important jobs for lawmakers is keeping kids safe.

Rezin believes Illinois should eliminate plea deals for people charged with involuntary sexual servitude of a minor, trafficking involving a minor, or grooming. Her bill could also charge child sex offenders with a Class 4 felony if they work, volunteer or knowingly visit facilities that exclusively provide entertainment for minors.

"It's about making sure Illinois sends a clear message that we stand with victims, protect children and treat these crimes with the seriousness that they deserve," Rezin said.

A separate plan could enhance penalties for human trafficking and related crimes by raising each offense by one felony class. People charged with Class X felonies for trafficking would potentially face nine to 45 years in prison.

"When that trust is violated through trafficking, exploitation, or abuse, we have a duty to put protections and consequences in place," said Sen. Sally Turner (R-Lincoln).

Sen. Darby Hills (R-Barrington Hills) argued people should be required to register as sex offenders if they are convicted of secretly recording videos of minors and the offense is found to be sexually motivated. She filed the legislation after a repeat offender was caught videotaping his students in a bathroom, but was not required to register as an offender.

"Digital exploitation can follow a child for years," Hills said. "Our laws must reflect reality."

Hills received strong bipartisan support for her plan last year, but it never received a vote on the Senate floor. She hopes to see the proposal move out of the criminal law committee soon.

The two other bills are locked in the Senate Assignments Committee.

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