SPRINGFIELD — To address safety gaps and prioritize continuous protection for victims in Illinois’ justice system, State Senator Robert Peters advanced a measure to secure petitioning eligibility for restraining orders during criminal proceedings.

“Victims of abuse deserve to feel safe, dignified and protected from their abusers through every step of the formal legal process,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “By allowing victims to petition for an order of protection during criminal proceedings, we can minimize victims’ trauma and stress by providing immediate safety from further harm or harassment.”

Peters’ measure would build on the Illinois Domestic Violence Act, which currently prohibits orders of protection from being denied solely based on the incarceration status of either the petitioner or the respondent, ensuring the logistical timing of incarceration does not outweigh victims’ access to legal protections.

The proposal would codify IDVA procedure in Illinois criminal law to account for orders of protection issued during criminal proceedings – reducing victim trauma and streamlining justice by directly tying civil protection policies to criminal cases.

“This bill would make enforcement of order violations more direct than in civil court, sending a clear message that Illinois will stand up for victims and act swiftly to bring perpetrators to justice,” Peters said.

Senate Bill 3935 passed the Senate Executive Committee Wednesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.