Schweizer Co-Sponsors Successful Bill to Increase Reporting Physical and Sexual Abuse

SPRINGFIELD, IL… State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville) is a chief co-sponsor of legislation that passed out of the House on April 15, 2024. House Bill 4350 mandates certain establishments, like hotels and emergency rooms, to hang posters developed by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) that provide information for children on how to report physical and sexual abuse.

"I am proud to serve as a chief co-sponsor on this important measure aimed at protecting children in abusive situations," said Rep. Schweizer. "In Springfield, we must tackle difficult issues to have a positive impact on our communities, which is why I support taking this important and necessary step in the battle against child trafficking and abuse."

House Bill 4350 creates the Child Abuse Notice Act, which focuses on placing a notice on how to report abuse in high-traffic areas, like hotels or motels, emergency rooms, and public transit stations, as those establishments have higher chances of children who are being abused or trafficked to pass through.

The posters will be created by the Department of Children and Family Services. A model will be available to download at no cost to the requesting entity. Printed posters must be 8.5 x 11 inches in size and written in 16-point font. Each requesting establishment must print the posters in other languages if a large population of non-English speakers live in that establishment's county.

"The implementation of this bill serves to help children in unimaginable situations get the help they need by providing information on how to get help," said Schweizer.

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. To follow its progress, visit ILGA.gov.

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