‘Revenge Porn’ Survivors to Receive Compensation via Illinois’ Crime Victims Compensation Act

As of January 1, 2019, a series of new laws are going into effect in Illinois — labor, domestic relations, criminal measures… and compensation for victims of “revenge porn.”

As we know the nonconsensual creation and/or distribution of sexual images is often colloquially referred to as “revenge porn.” However, though this content may be re-vengeful, it is not porn. We will continue to correct the mainstream media’s linguistic error.

According to the Chicago Sun Times, victims of the nonconsensual creation and/or distribution of sexual images and other unlawful circulation of graphic material — which they refer to as “revenge porn” — will be able to receive compensation under a new law that expands the definition of a violent crime under the Crime Victims Compensation Act.

The act, established in 1973, provides victims and their families up to $27,000 to support them in recovery from crimes including murder, assault, sexual assault and domestic violence. Now, survivors of someone posting graphic material of them online or someone sharing private sexual images of them without their consent can apply for the fund as well.

According to the Chicago Sun Times, the money is meant to offset costs for psychiatric treatment or counseling that may be needed as a result of the crime. Victims must apply within two years of the crime or within one year of the suspect being criminally charged, whichever date is later. The money is paid as a reimbursement, not as an allocation, settlement or stipend.

Those with questions about the fund can call the Crime Victims Assistance Line at 800-228-3368.

Other new laws in effect as of January 1 include designated lactation rooms at courthouses and a jury exemption for nursing mothers if they request it. The Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act will now also include an employee reimbursement provision, ensuring that workers are no longer made to incur out-of-pocket expenses because of work. This includes cell phone and computer use. There are other new laws as well.

Image via Yvonne Stepanow.