Lemont, IL…In light of growing threats to those who serve in public roles, State Representative Nicole La Ha (R-Lemont) is renewing attention on her legislation, HB1468: the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act, which strives to safeguard the personal information of first responders and public officials and protect their families from being targeted.
“First responders and public servants show up for us every day, on the worst days, and in the hardest moments,” said Rep. La Ha. “They shouldn’t have to worry that doing their job will put a target on their back or a threat at their doorstep.”
HB1468 prohibits individuals or organizations from publicly sharing private information, like home addresses and phone numbers, of first responders, prosecutors, public defenders, probation officers, and members of the General Assembly, along with their immediate families. Upon written request, their information must be protected, and those who knowingly violate that request could face felony charges. The bill also allows public officials to use a business address in place of a home address on public records and provides reasonable exemptions for government employees acting in good faith within their duties.
“This is a basic line of protection,” Rep. La Ha said. “No one should have to trade their personal safety to serve their community.”
The renewed spotlight on HB1468 follows the shocking attack in Minnesota this past weekend, where State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed, and State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were wounded in politically motivated attacks. Law enforcement reports indicate the attacker may have impersonated law enforcement and kept a list of targeted officials.
“This was an attack on democracy, and an attack on decency,” Rep. La Ha said. “Somewhere along the way, our culture has allowed elected officials and public servants to be dehumanized in the name of politics. That’s incredibly dangerous, and it’s why this legislation matters. Keeping first responders and public officials safe is not a partisan idea. It’s a shared and urgent responsibility none of us can ignore.”
HB1468 outlines clear procedures for privacy requests, establishes strong consequences for violations, and ensures officials can focus on their work without living in fear.
Rep. Nicole La Ha proudly serves the people of the 82nd District.
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