Glowiak Hilton law improves safety of foster care placements

SPRINGFIELD — A new law from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton will strengthen protections for children in the foster care system by ensuring individuals with trafficking convictions are barred from serving as foster or adoptive guardians.

“When gaps in the system allow vulnerable children to be placed in harm’s way, it’s our responsibility to make changes,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This legislation came in response to real, troubling situations – not hypotheticals.”

The new law, under House Bill 871, prohibits the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services from placing children in foster or adoptive homes where any household member has a conviction related to human or sex trafficking.

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Illinois bans misleading at-home sexual assault evidence kits under Glowiak Hilton law

SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to a new law from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton, Illinois joins a growing list of states banning the sale of at-home sexual assault evidence collection kits, which experts say raise concerns about reliability and privacy.

“No one should be misled into thinking an at-home kit can replace the expert care of a medical professional,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “These kits give the illusion of privacy and control, but they can ultimately undermine a survivor’s ability to press charges.”

In Illinois, medical forensic exams are offered at no cost, and in addition to addressing physical trauma, a trained crisis advocate provides emotional supports and explains the survivor’s rights and options. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners conduct the exams, collect evidence according to established protocols and can testify in court if necessary.

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Glowiak Hilton law removes transportation barriers for sexual assault survivors

SPRINGFIELD – After experiencing a sexual assault, survivors often face the added stress of arranging a ride to a safe location once their medical exam is complete. To help ease this burden, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton championed a new law that expands the state’s sexual assault services voucher program to cover transportation following treatment.

“For someone who experienced trauma and found the strength to seek medical help, not having the means to get to their next location is overwhelming,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Expanding the state’s voucher program helps ensure survivors are cared for every step of the way, including after they leave the hospital.”

After an individual receives medical care for a sexual assault, hospitals issue a voucher that a patient can use for related health care expenses. The voucher is valid for 90 days from the date of their hospital visit and can be used to cover costs of ambulance rides, medical forensic or laboratory services, pharmacy expenses and follow-up health care treatment.

Under Glowiak Hilton’s new law, the list of eligible expenses covered by the voucher will include taxi or rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft, for a survivor to return home or to the transferring hospital, or to reach a shelter.

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Glowiak Hilton, Blair-Sherlock invite community to connect over coffee

VILLA PARK – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton and State Representative Diane Blair-Sherlock are inviting local residents to talk over a cup of coffee in a casual setting at their Coffee and Conversation event Aug. 16.

“Sometimes it can feel intimidating to speak with your elected officials, but we host these events to make it easier and more relaxed,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “If you’re out running errands Saturday morning, I encourage you to stop by for coffee and share your thoughts with us.”

The Coffee and Conversation event will be held Saturday, Aug. 16 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Funky Java Coffee House, located at 40 S. Villa Ave. in Villa Park. Along with complimentary coffee, attendees will have the opportunity to talk with Senator Glowiak Hilton and Representative Blair-Sherlock about any concerns or feedback they have on local and state issues.

Residents with questions can contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177.