Illinois Senate Approves One‑Year Expulsion for Student Sexual Assault

The measure cleared the Senate on May 7 with bipartisan backing. Sponsored by Republican Sen. Steve McClure, the bill responds to reports that schools have hidden or minimized assaults.

SB 939 sets a baseline penalty: any student found guilty of sexual assault or attempted assault in a school or school‑sponsored event must be expelled for at least one year. School boards may review the case, but they must vote on the outcome, limiting the ability to keep incidents concealed.

McClure said the legislation grew out of “shocking reports” of assaults that were swept under the rug. He cited a case in his district where a girl was assaulted, the perpetrator admitted guilt, yet faced no expulsion. The victim’s parents repeatedly sought court protection orders, highlighting gaps in school discipline.

Co‑sponsor Sen. Jil Tracy emphasized that protecting victims and maintaining a safe learning environment are paramount. She noted that the bill gives schools clear direction when violent behavior occurs. Sen. Jason Plummer added that parents should trust schools to keep their children safe and that offenders must face “real consequences.”

Parents of victims have welcomed the change. Ashley Peden, whose daughter was assaulted in McClure’s district, said the bill finally acknowledges the danger posed by student predators. Jessica Johnson, whose daughter suffered a similar assault in Cook County, recalled walking past her attacker daily because the school took no disciplinary action.

The new rule aligns sexual‑assault penalties with existing statutes for students who bring dangerous weapons to school, which already require a one‑year expulsion. Carrie Ward, CEO of the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, praised the bill for applying established expulsion guidelines to sexual‑assault cases, aiming to protect survivors and the broader student body.

If enacted, schools will need to develop procedures for investigating assaults, documenting findings, and conducting board votes. The requirement could increase reporting, as administrators will no longer be able to rely on “safety plans” that lack enforcement power.

The Senate’s approval moves the bill to the House, where it faces a similar vote. Watch for the House’s decision and any amendments that could alter the expulsion threshold or implementation timeline.