SPRINGFIELD- The Illinois Senate has taken a major step toward creating new protections for students who are victims of sexual assault committed by other students.
Senate Bill 939, filed by State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), mandates at least a one-year expulsion for any student who commits sexual assault or attempted sexual assault at school.
“This bill was inspired by shocking reports from across the state about incidents where students have been sexually assaulted at schools, and some schools appeared to be sweeping these incidents under the rug. Since I first filed this bill, we’ve continued to hear even more of these stories” said McClure. “Here’s what can’t be swept under the rug: the real pain caused by sexual violence and the real danger that a perpetrator of that kind of violence poses to victims, other students, and staff.”
Senate Bill 939 mandates that any student who commits sexual assault or attempted sexual assault at a school, or a school-sponsored activity or event, would be expelled for a period of at least 1 year. School boards would have the ability to review the punishment, but would be required to vote on how to handle the situation, making it much more difficult to hide instances of sexual assault.
“When a child is sexually assaulted at school, the priority must be protecting the victim and ensuring every student can learn in a safe environment,” said State Senator Jil Tracy (R-Quincy), a chief cosponsor of the legislation. “Senate Bill 939 establishes clear consequences for violent behavior and gives schools stronger direction when these incidents occur. I’m proud to support this measure because no family should have to fear that a known offender will remain in the classroom after committing such a serious act.”
“I commend Senator McClure for his leadership and determination to get this legislation across the finish line,” said State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville), a chief cosponsor of the legislation. “Every parent should be able to trust that when they send their child to school, that child will be protected. Students who commit sexual assault must face real consequences, and schools must be held accountable when these serious incidents occur. I’m proud to co-sponsor Senate Bill 939 because this is an important step forward, and we must continue doing more to protect our children and stand with victims.”
The legislation was proposed in response to an incident in Senator McClure’s district, where a young girl was sexually assaulted and the attacker was not expelled or suspended, despite admitting to the offence. According to the victim’s mother, Ashley Peden, she and her husband, Chad, repeatedly had to go to court to file orders of protection to protect their daughter.
“A year ago, I stood with Senator McClure to push for this change, but our bill didn’t make it across the finish line. In the meantime, kids across the state have been left to rely on so-called ‘safety plans’ that don’t actually keep anyone safe. I’m glad to see this important legislation is finally moving forward,” said Peden. “Senate Bill 939 recognizes the real danger sexual predators pose and makes it clear our schools must protect innocent children and stand with victims.”
Sadly, the nightmare the Peden family faced is not isolated. Reports continued from across the state of similar tragic situations. In Cook County, Jessica Johnson’s daughter was also sexually assaulted while on school grounds.
“This bill is important to me because in the case of my daughter being sexually assaulted on school grounds, and the student not being expelled nor suspended for it specifically. When the students walked out, there was a young lady that approached me and thanked us for speaking, because she had to continue to walk past her offender every day,” said Jessica Johnson.
The legislation makes the consequences for sexual assaults committed by students similar to laws covering students who bring deadly weapons to schools. According to Illinois statutes, if a student brings a dangerous weapon into a school, they are required to be expelled for 1 year.
“ICASA supports Senator McClure’s efforts to ensure schools recognize and respond to sexual assault, support survivors, and hold those accountable who commit such assaults. Senate Bill 939 focuses on applying existing school guidelines for expulsion to sexual assault cases in an effort to protect & support survivors and ensure the safety of all students,” said Carrie Ward, CEO of the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault.
Senate Bill 939 passed the Illinois Senate on May 7th with strong bipartisan support.