Bill would expand Illinois stalking laws to include use of electronic tracking devices

SPRINGFIELD (WGEM) - A bill working its way through the Illinois Senate would expand stalking laws. The proposal would add the unauthorized use of electronic tracking devices.

The bill’s sponsor, state Sen. Steve Stadelman, D-Rockford, said there have been cases across the U.S. where someone will sneak a tracking device, like an Apple AirTag, in someone’s car or purse without their knowledge or consent.

If the bill becomes law, that would be considered stalking in Illinois. The perpetrator could face criminal and civil penalties. A judge could also bar them from using tracking devices in the future even for legitimate purposes.

“As technology advances, more and more people are taking advantage of this technology but not for good reasons,” Stadelman said. “So therefore, I think, when it comes to stalking, we need to make sure that people aren’t using these devices to follow other people. It’s dangerous and it’s a real concern.”

The U.S. Department of Justice estimates nearly one in three women and one in six men will report being stalking victims in their lifetimes.

The bill passed through the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday unanimously. It now heads to the floor.