Hirschauer Named Legislative Champion for Karina’s Law

WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, was presented the 2025 Legislative Champion Award today from The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence for her work leading the passage of Karina’s Law, which took effect this spring.

“After years of fighting in Springfield and in the courts, and after extensive negotiation and advocacy, the passage of Karina’s Law marks a significant step forward in protecting domestic violence survivors from firearms,” Hirschauer said. “This survivor-centered law honors the memory of Karina Gonzalez and her daughter Daniela who were murdered by an abuser who should have never had access to a firearm. Although we cannot erase tragedies in the past, Karina and Daniela’s legacy will live on with each life they save with this law.”

Karina’s Law (House Bill 4144) combats the deadly combination of guns and domestic violence by strengthening the firearm remedy within the order of protection process and allowing judges to order the removal of guns from abusers who have been deemed a credible danger. The bill also clarifies the process for survivors, judges and law enforcement when the firearm remedy is involved in criminal and civil orders of protections.

After years of negotiation by Hirschauer and advocates, Karina’s Law was successfully signed by Governor Pritzker in February.

“We must work to build a better future in memory of victims, survivors, and all who love them. Karina’s Law is a long overdue step in that direction,” said Hirschauer. “Thank you to The Network for this recognition, but ultimately, thank you for continuing your advocacy and support for so many men and women who go through the unconscionable. Your work remains integral to building a future where preventable violence is no longer normalized in our communities.”