Sexual assault organizations in Illinois would see an increase in funding under legislation recently introduced by State Senator Toi Hutchinson (D-Chicago Heights). 

Senate Bill 3348 would create the Sexual Assault Prevention Fund and authorize the Department of Human Services (DHS) to distribute grants to various organizations that provide assistance to victims of sexual assault.  Funding for the Sexual Assault Prevention Fund would come from a $5 fee imposed on every customer who enters an adult entertainment facility in Illinois.

“Illinois’ budget woes have forced cuts to many social service organizations, including many that serve victims of rape and sexual assault, limiting the ability of sexually abused women to receive the treatment they need,” Hutchinson said.  “The legislation I have introduced is still in its infancy and is by no means a final plan for how we can deal with this issue.  I am looking forward to sitting down with the adult entertainment industry to discuss ways they can be a part of the solution to this problem.”

Studies have shown that crime, especially sexually related offenses, is higher in neighborhoods that contain adult entertainment businesses.  Illinois has over 100 adult entertainment facilities in operation located in all parts of the State.  

“Strip clubs contribute to the objectification and sexual exploitation of women,” said Polly Poskin, Executive Director of the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault.  “Rape crisis centers respond to women exploited by sexual harassment, abuse, rape and trafficking.  Our doors are open 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year.  SB3348 is not the end of strip clubs, but a new beginning for helping victims recover from the trauma of sexual violence.”