217 Today: Illinois lawmakers strengthen law requiring hospital care for sexual assault survivors

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Cheryl Thompson sits for a portrait near her home in Southern Illinois in March 2024.
  • Photo: Julia Rendleman for The 19th

Friday, June 20, 2025

Today’s headlines: 

  • Central Illinois could see some dangerously high temperatures starting this weekend.
  • The National Weather Service confirms ten tornadoes touched down in Central Illinois on Wednesday.
  • Celebrations were held around the country yesterday to commemorate Juneteenth.
  • Local advocates for the LGBTQ community are reacting to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care.

In today’s deep dive, we’ll bring you a look at how the Illinois General Assembly passed a measure to strengthen protections for survivors of sexual abuse.

217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Stephanie Mosqueda, Anna Koh and Kate Martin.

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Stephanie Orellana