SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins is leading a measure to protect children and help survivors of sexual abuse seek justice.

“Sexual abuse is always traumatic for children – full stop. But with this legislation, we can give them stronger support if they choose to bring an action in court,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “No one should have to sit in a court room and defend themselves after being victimized as a child.”

Under the initiative, House Bill 222, the use of contributory fault as a tactic to reduce damages in childhood sexual abuse cases would be prohibited. Further, the measure would treat all childhood sexual abuse or contact as inherently harmful in a court of law, which would eliminate the need for the survivor to present further evidence of trauma.

CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined Planned Parenthood of Illinois to receive the Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award for her efforts to improve equity in reproductive care and maternal and infant health.

“It is a great honor to be among the fierce champions selected for this award, and I am proud to stand alongside Planned Parenthood as we champion reproductive freedom across Illinois,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Being among such passionate advocates fighting for bodily autonomy is truly inspiring.”

The Richard J. Phelan Profile in Courage Award — named after the late Cook County Board president who restored abortion services at the county’s health system in 1992 — is presented to individuals who champion reproductive rights and freedoms through their public service.

CHICAGO – To help students going back to school soon, State Senator Lakesia Collins is hosting a Back-to-School Summer Fest & Resource Fair to give back to the community and help residents prepare for the upcoming school year.

“Students need a lot when going back to school, and as a mother I know how expensive it can all can be,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This is an opportunity for residents to come out and join us for a day of fun and get prepared for the upcoming school year.”

The Back-to-School Summer Fest & Resource Fair will be held Saturday, Aug. 24 from noon to 5 p.m. at 169 S. Maplewood Ave. in Chicago. Residents can come out to receive back to school resources including backpacks, school supplies, computer cases and other items. Collins’ team will also be hosting food vendors, games, community resources and other recreational activities.

SPRINGFIELD – Financial responsibilities weigh heavy on families in the foster care system and to stop the disproportionate impact State Senator Lakesia Collins’ new law will include family circumstances as part of the determination process when evaluating parents’ ability to pay for the cost of foster care.

“Many parents are held responsible for more than they can afford to pay within the foster care system, and this can delay any reunification efforts for the child,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Our focus should be on reunifying families, and with this law we will ensure families are not overloaded with financial responsibilities and give their best effort to take care of the child.”

Senate Bill 3367 will make parents of children living in foster care responsible only for the cost of the foster care if the Department of Children and Family Services has conducted a thorough, individualized review of the family’s circumstances and found that payment would not be contrary to the best interests of the child and would not harm reunification efforts.