In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, state Rep. Silvana Tabares, D-Chicago, is informing residents about new legislation focusing on protecting and reinforcing the rights of abused survivors. “National Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportune time to call attention to a subject that most people do not want to talk about, but cannot be ignored. According to a study of just one day, local domestic violence supporters answered over 20 thousand hotline calls. This means we all need to be doing more to raise awareness and advocate for change,” Tabares said. “That’s why as a legislator, I’m working to make sure Illinois’ laws are there to protect survivors of domestic violence.”

To make sure the safety of domestic violence survivors and their families are protected, Tabares supported Marsy’s Law, a new law that allows for domestic violence survivors and their families to testify at post-arraignment court proceedings for the safety of themselves and their family when the courts consider whether or not to release a defendant. Tabares also worked to pass a new law that makes the “nuisance” property ordinance illegal for victims of domestic violence, so that they will not get fined for using emergency services. While the “nuisance” property ordinance intended to crack down on pranksters clogging up emergency lines, these ordinances have sometimes been used against people who have genuine, recurring need. If you feel that you are in abusive relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org to receive the help you deserve from trained advocates available 24/7 with no cost, names or judgment.