A bill filed by State Representative Nicole La Ha in the Illinois House in Springfield would amend Illinois law to add “coercive control” as a type of abuse.
“With this legislation, Illinois will be taking a more proactive stance in addressing domestic violence before it escalates to physical violence,” said Rep. La Ha. “This bill will bring Illinois law in line with federal standards that already recognize coercion in cases of human trafficking. We must recognize that many forms of nonphysical violence are just as harmful as physical, and we must protect all victims of domestic violence.
Under current law, “domestic battery” is causing bodily harm or making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with a family or household member. Household members are defined largely as spouses, people who live together, or those who share a child. Nonphysical abuse, such as emotional manipulation or isolation, is not considered abuse under current law.
La Ha’s proposed bill aims to change that. Much like the State of South Carolina is trying to do, this legislation makes it unlawful to engage in coercive control over a household member. HB 4659 defines coercive control as, “a pattern of behavior that interferes with a person’s free will and personal liberty,” including isolating a household member from friends or family against their will, restricting access to finances, monitoring communications, using degrading language, making threats, or exerting control through intimidation or fear.
Those interested in following the progress of House Bill 4659 can follow the bill at the Illinois General Assembly’s website, ILGA.gov, or check Representative La Ha’s legislative website at RepLaHa.com for updates.