SPRINGFIELD – Illinois public policy affecting sexual assault victims is a hot topic at the State Capitol, and the ideas being considered are sending mixed messages.
Should those who've been criminally attacked be protected from further trauma, or faced with it every time they need to use the bathroom in a public location?
On one hand, a proposal moving in the Illinois House would require businesses to allow 12 weeks of unpaid leave for sexual assault victims. Another bill currently being "deep-sixed" by the House Democrat majority in subcommittee would protect sexual assault victims from confrontations with the opposite sex in genderless restrooms, dressing rooms and showers.
