SPRINGFIELD, IL – Protecting Illinois youth from dangerous child abductors is a top concern and priority of State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D – Chicago), State Representative Mary Flowers (D – Chicago) and their colleagues in the General Assembly. Senate Bill 1038, sponsored by Senator Collins and Representative Flowers, passed out of the General Assembly on Tuesday and will head to Governor Pat Quinn to be signed into law. The legislation is crafted to make sure law enforcement officials have the tools and authorization to pursue suspects of child abduction.

"We have identified a disturbing trend of child abductors remaining on the streets, with the danger that they will attempt to strike again," Senator Collins said. "Families in less affluent areas have been disproportionately impacted by this trend. This legislation will help our law enforcement officials pursue child abduction suspects all across Illinois."

To date law enforcement officials have not been able to fully pursue child abduction suspects because of shortcomings in the definition of the crime. This legislation corrects that problem.

"Far too often, we hear on the news about child abductions and predators trying to lure children," said state Rep. Flowers. "This measure will strengthen current law to provide more protections for our children and tools for law enforcement officials. This is a strong step toward shielding our young people from dangerous criminals."

Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez is another strong supporter of the legislation.

"Senate Bill 1038 strengthens current legislation giving prosecutors improved tools to charge and convict offenders who target children," said Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez. "This enhanced legislation sends a strong message to offenders who prey on and victimize children in our communities. My office was pleased to work on this important legislation with Senator Collins and her staff."