Hirschauer supports HB3393 to change courtroom testimony rules for certain victims

State Rep. Maura Hirschauer (D-49th) voted in favor of HB3393—which updates courtroom testimony rules for some victims—during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois House. The measure passed in a unanimous 115-0 vote.

The official bill summary reads: "CRIM PRO--SPEEDY TRIAL TOLL."

The following summary is based on the bill text and includes interpretation to aid understanding.

This bill amends the Illinois Code of Criminal Procedure, changing how testimony by certain victims is handled in select criminal cases. It eliminates the presumption that a child under 13 must always testify using closed circuit television, instead letting courts order this procedure if a child under 18 or a person with qualifying disabilities would suffer severe emotional trauma testifying in person. If such a request is denied, the State may seek up to 30 days of suspended speedy trial deadlines to revisit the motion. The statute outlines who can be present during this testimony, allows remote communication for defendants, and requires a finding that the alternative arrangement is not prejudicial to the defendant. The new rules apply to cases filed after the amendments take effect.

HB3393’s action was recorded as 'Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 House Concurs.'

Hirschauer holds a BA from Colby College.

She was elected in 2021 as a Democrat representing the state's 49th House District and succeeded Karina Villa as state representative.

Legislation in Illinois progresses through a multi-step process involving bill introduction in either legislative chamber, committee consideration, debate on the floor, approval by both the House and Senate, and submission to the governor, who may approve or veto the bill. The General Assembly operates on a biennial cycle and sees thousands of measures proposed each session, with only a portion ultimately becoming law.