Illinois lawmakers pass bill to expand reporting of sexual abuse in health care settings following Tribune investigation

The Illinois legislature has passed a bill that would require more health care facilities to report allegations of patient abuse to the state — a measure that follows a Tribune investigation into the issue.

Under the bill, doctors’ offices and clinics affiliated with hospitals would have to report allegations of patient abuse to the Illinois Department of Public Health, triggering an investigation by the state. Now, hospitals must only report allegations that happen at hospitals.

The House unanimously passed the bill Tuesday night. The Senate also previously passed the bill unanimously. The bill now goes to the governor for his signature.

Read more of Lisa Schnecker and Emily Hoerner's reporting on the abuse bill in the Chicago Tribune.