SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Legislation that would allow law enforcement officials to obtain a search warrant through a videoconference is advancing in the Illinois Legislature.
The change to the state’s criminal code is sponsored by state Rep. Mike Zalewski (zuh-LESS’-kee). The Riverside Democrat’s proposal would allow search warrants to be obtained from a judge in terrorism cases during a video conference when the requesting prosecutor can’t be present in a courtroom.
Current law only allows search warrants to be obtained in such cases by oral testimony, which can include requests via telephone or fax.
Supporters say the measure is a practical one in a digital age.
The measure passed the House 107-1.
It now heads to the state Senate.
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The bill is HB4594.
Online: https://www.ilga.gov
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