SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to a new law from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton, Illinois joins a growing list of states banning the sale of at-home sexual assault evidence collection kits, which experts say raise concerns about reliability and privacy.

“No one should be misled into thinking an at-home kit can replace the expert care of a medical professional,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “These kits give the illusion of privacy and control, but they can ultimately undermine a survivor’s ability to press charges.”

In Illinois, medical forensic exams are offered at no cost, and in addition to addressing physical trauma, a trained crisis advocate provides emotional supports 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, the new law makes it illegal for anyone other than a medical professional to sell, advertise or distribute sexual assault evidence collection kits. Under Glowiak Hilton’s 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.

“Survivors deserve comprehensive support after a traumatic incident,” said Glowiak Hilton. “This law reinforces Illinois’ commitment to survivor-centered and trauma-informed care.”

House Bill 2548 was signed into law Aug. 15 and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.