SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Steve Stadelman called a press conference Wednesday to outline critical legislation designed to eliminate gaps in protection that would leave survivors of domestic violence and stalking without enforceable safeguards.

“This bill was inspired by a courageous constituent who came forward to share her story. Her experience underscores why we must constantly review our laws to ensure they truly protect those they are meant to serve,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This measure guarantees continued protections for victims and strengthens accountability for those who violate court orders.”

Through Senate Bill 3044, Stadelman is leading the charge to protect survivors of domestic abuse by ensuring an emergency order of protection remains in effect until the plenary, or final, order of protection has been served. Under current law, after a judge grants a plenary order, the emergency order initially granted is no longer in effect.

“After a long year of being harassed and threatened, I was granted a no-contact stalking order by a judge. I left the courtroom believing that I was going to be protected by that order,” said Elizabeth Malone, a resident of Winnebago County. “The most frightening part of this is not the harassment, it was realizing the system that I trusted to protect me and to protect others didn’t function the way that I thought and the way that it should. No one else should have to go through this and I’m sure that they have and that they are. Please help ensure that survivors and victims in Illinois are never again left vulnerable because of paperwork and gaps in procedure.”

“Domestic violence and stalking cases often escalate quickly,” said Stadelman. “We cannot afford gaps in enforcement – even for a single day.”

Senate Bill 3044 awaits further action in the Senate.