SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to provide greater protections for military service members who are survivors of sexual misconduct, State Senator Mike Porfirio, a Navy veteran, and State Representative Stephanie Kifowit, a Marine Corps veteran, partnered to advance House Bill 3103 through the Senate.

“Survivors of sexual assault must receive all the protections they deserve,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Service members sacrifice their lives to defend our country; the least we can do is ensure that they are protected as well.”

The proposal ensures that Illinois National Guard and reserve military service members who are survivors of non-consensual sexual conduct and have received a military protective order are also protected under the state’s civil no-contact and stalking no-contact orders.

“Beyond legislative action, I know that the Illinois National Guard is working to decrease instances of military sexual assault and ensure that victims are protected in addition to raising awareness of available programs and services offered to individuals,” said Kifowit (D-Oswego). “I will continue to do what I can in Springfield to be responsive to ensure all service members can serve proudly and without fear for their safety.”

In 2022, close to 36,000 service members reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact. Broken down further, the numbers equate to 8.4% of women at nearly 16,000 service members and 1.5% of men at nearly 15,000 service members. Porfirio’s measure would align Illinois laws to ensure that survivors receive protection from both the military and the state.

“Service members who have tragically dealt with unwanted and unwarranted advances deserve the peace of mind that the state will protect them,” said Porfirio. “Everyone deserves to be protected, including those who protect us abroad.”

House Bill 3103 passed through the Senate on Thursday. 

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