New Gillespie law strengthens consent laws in Illinois

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – To remove barriers to justice for survivors of sexual assault, a new law strengthening the legal definition of consent, sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie, was signed on Thursday.

“Survivors deserve a justice system that supports them during one of the most difficult times of their lives,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This measure removes a loophole that should never have existed and allows survivors to seek justice.”

House Bill 5441 clarifies the existing definition of “unable to give knowing consent” by adding that the survivor remains unable to consent if they voluntarily consumed an intoxicating substance. Under current interpretation, the offender must have provided the intoxicating substance to the survivor to be held responsible for a sexual assault.

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Gillespie supports statewide drug take-back program

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – To prevent unused prescription drugs from falling into the wrong hands or polluting the environment, State Senator Ann Gillespie supported legislation that was signed into law on Friday that establishes a statewide drug take-back program.

“Proper disposal of prescription medication will curb the opioid epidemic and protect our environment,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “The safety of our children depends on the accessibility of secure take-back sites in every community.”

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Gillespie backs gun violence prevention law

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS – To address gun violence as a public health crisis and increase coordination amongst state agencies, State Senator Ann Gillespie supported a gun violence prevention measure that was signed into law on Friday.

“Addressing gun violence as a public health crisis will allow state agencies, social service providers and partners in law enforcement to better coordinate to stop the violence,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights).

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June 12 is Women’s Veterans Day in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – To recognize the critical role of women in U.S. Armed Forces, State Senators Ann Gillespie and Jil Tracy, co-chairs of the Senate Women’s Caucus, sponsored a resolution declaring June 12 as Women’s Veterans Day in Illinois.

“Women have sacrificed much for our nation while serving at home and abroad,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “We are grateful for their service and honor the contributions of the over two million women veterans who have served our country.”

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