Governor Signs Villa-Backed Legislation Expanding Access to Medical Care for Survivors

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Legislation recently supported by state Rep. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, will ensure survivors of sexual assault receive necessary medical care as soon as possible.

“When a survivor seeks medical attention after a sexual assault, timing is everything as medical professionals treat their injuries and law enforcement work to collect evidence,” said Villa. “This legislation will ensure that survivors receive prompt medical attention by expanding the number of medical facilities they can receive care at, including pediatric hospitals if medically necessary or more convenient.”

Villa supported House Bill 3038, an initiative by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to expand access to medical care for survivors of sexual assault. The measure, which was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, will allow adult survivors to be treated at any hospital, even if it is typically only for pediatric patients.

“I proudly supported this legislation because expanding medical care resources for survivors of sexual assault is commonsense to ensure they receive appropriate medical attention as soon as possible,” continued Villa. “I thank the governor for standing with survivors and signing this legislation into law.”