Glowiak Hilton law bans misleading at-home sexual evidence kits

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois will join a growing list of states banning the sale of at-home sexual assault evidence collection kits starting Jan. 1 thanks to State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

“At-home kits cannot replace the care of a medical professional,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “People will no longer be misled about the products that raise reliability and privacy concerns.”

In Illinois, medical forensic exams are offered at no cost, and in addition to addressing physical trauma, a trained crisis advocate provides emotional support and explains the survivor’s rights and options. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners conduct the exams, collect evidence according to established protocols and can testify in court if necessary.

At-home sexual assault evidence collection kits are marketed online as an alternative to medical forensic exams, but they lack the oversight and expertise needed for reliable evidence collection. The Illinois Attorney General has raised concerns that these at-home kits are unreliable and unlikely to hold up in criminal court proceedings due to issues with evidence handling.

To address these risks, Glowiak Hilton’s law makes it illegal for anyone other than a medical professional to sell, advertise or distribute sexual assault evidence collection kits. Under the new law, survivors who have been misled into purchasing a kit can seek compensation for any harm caused by false claims about the kit’s effectiveness in pursuing criminal charges.

“In Illinois, we have worked to support and uplift survivors,” said Glowiak Hilton. “With this new law, we are staying true to our word by reinforcing our state’s commitment to survivor-centered and trauma-informed care.”

House Bill 2548 takes effect Jan. 1.

Glowiak Hilton launches holiday card drive for seniors

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is hosting a holiday card drive to spread cheer this holiday season for residents at local long-term care facilities.

“The holiday season is a great time to show our seniors some appreciation while spreading joy throughout our community,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Little acts of kindness like making cards can brighten someone’s day.”

Glowiak Hilton is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the holidays. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Dec. 17 to Glowiak Hilton’s office at 1 S. Cass Ave, Suite 203, Westmont, IL 60559. Cards can be dropped through the mail slot.

For more information, contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177.

Glowiak Hilton calls for bipartisan action to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Food assistance programs like SNAP serve as a lifeline for families who are trying their best to put food on their tables," said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Politics aside, we need to come together to protect a basic human right. Action is needed now. ”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 18,066 people in the district Glowiak Hilton represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

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Glowiak Hilton to host vehicle emissions testing unit at Western Springs Recreation Center

WESTERN SPRINGS — In partnership with the Illinois Air Team and the Village of Western Springs, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton will host a free vehicle emissions mobile testing unit for drivers.

“To keep our air clean, it’s important that we make sure our vehicles are complying with emissions standards,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) “If your vehicle is due for an emissions test, take advantage of this free event.”

The unit will be available Oct. 20 through Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Western Springs Recreation Center, located at 1500 Walker St.

Vehicle exhaust emissions are one of the greatest sources of air pollution in the greater Chicagoland area and can be hazardous to human health. The federal Clean Air Act mandates vehicle emission inspection programs in urban areas that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, which includes Chicago. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency suggests that all vehicles over four years old have an emissions test done every two years.

Testing at this event is available for vehicles who have received an emissions test notice or a registration renewal notice indicating testing is required. Interested drivers can check their vehicle’s eligibility at ILAirTeam.com/vehicle-eligibility-check-tool.