SPRINGFIELD – Children are not responsible for their trauma, and State Senator Lakesia Collins’ initiative – signed into law on Friday – will help children and assist survivors of sexual abuse seeking justice.

“This law further defends child abuse victims seeking justice – something no one should have live through,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “With this law, we will prevent further traumatization from abusers when victims have to protect and defend themselves in court.”

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

The goal of this law is to establish that all childhood sexual abuse is traumatic and ensure that a child will not be blamed for being abused.

“With this law, we can facilitate justice for abuse victims across Illinois who have gone through and are continuing to face trauma,” said Collins. “We are giving survivors the ability to stand up against their abusers, and I am proud to stand with them in their fight for justice.”

House Bill 222 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect immediately.

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