Hurley-Backed Initiative to Create Task Force to Address Domestic Violence in Illinois

CHICAGO – To better protect and support victims and survivors of domestic violence, state Rep. Fran Hurley, D-Chicago, is sponsoring bipartisan legislation to create the Domestic Violence Task Force with the goal of analyzing current Illinois law and developing new, more effective policies.

“Unfortunately, many survivors live their lives in silence and fear, so they need support and deserve protection from their abuser,” said Hurley. “This task force will ensure that lawmakers are continually searching for new solutions to better serve survivors of domestic violence and give law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on abusers and hold them accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

Hurley is sponsoring House Bill 4262, a measure which would create the Domestic Violence Task Force with the goal of reviewing current Illinois law and law enforcement practices regarding domestic violence. Hurley’s legislation, which is backed by a wide coalition of bipartisan lawmakers, comes in the wake of a recent rise of incidents of domestic violence against women from an intimate partner. A 2018 report from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence showed that over a third of women have experienced intimate partner violence and without intervention that number is expected to increase.

“Protecting women, children and other individuals that are victims of domestic violence is very important to me,” continued Hurley. “This legislation will help protect survivors better by supporting law enforcement to hold abusers culpable in the criminal justice system.”

For more information, reach out to Hurley’s constituent service office at 773-445-8128 or RepFranHurley@gmail.com.