SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago) has been sworn into the 104^th General Assembly, marking the start of her first full term in the Senate. As a former youth in care, nursing home worker with deep roots in the labor movement, and State Representative, Collins released the following statement:

“I have been on the front lines fighting for my constituents and residents across Illinois – from leading high-profile campaigns such as the fight for a $15 minimum wage, to negotiating contracts for nursing home workers and facilitating fair labor negotiations.

“With great honor I serve as the 5^th District Senator. As someone who always works to build a better society for all and to empower everyday people, I want to continue to push for legislation that gives residents ownership of their communities and reflects their voices. I remain committed to building upon my work in the Illinois House, bringing my unique perspectives to the table to drive progress in the Senate.

SPRINGFIELD – To safeguard and protect Illinois seniors from neglect and abuse, State Senator Lakesia Collins’ bill looks to prohibit retaliatory action against nursing home residents and hold bad nursing homes accountable.

“When you are in assisted living, you rely on caregivers and staff to help you every day, and this bill looks to protect residents in care from neglectful and abusive practices,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Seniors deserve our upmost respect, and with this bill, we can expand and protect the rights they have and the avenues they can seek justice.”

Under the legislation, House Bill 2474, nursing homes would be prohibited from retaliating against a resident who is exercising their rights. If a resident faces retaliation, they would be able to file a civil suit against the nursing home and potentially recover damages if proven true.

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.

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.