West Central Reporter

State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer expressed his support for Senate Bill 98, which seeks to address sexual assault cases in schools and ensure that students responsible for such offenses face appropriate consequences. This statement was made in a Facebook post on January 29.

"I was happy to stand with Sen Steve McClure to support SB98 (House version to follow), making sure that sexual assault is properly handled in our schools, rather than swept under the rug," said Davidsmeyer, according to Facebook. "I am proud of the Peden family and the courage they have shown throughout this horrible time."

The post included a link to a report by WANDTV, which detailed the legislation and highlighted the involvement of Springfield teacher Ashley Peden in its creation. According to the report, Peden's 10-year-old daughter was sexually assaulted by a 14-year-old boy both on and off the school bus. Initially removed from the school, the boy was later allowed to return, forcing Peden’s daughter to share transportation with him again. Following legal proceedings and meetings, he was eventually placed in an alternative school. Peden then sought assistance from local lawmakers.

Screenshot of State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer's Jan. 29 Facebook post | State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer's Facebook page.

Senate Bill 98 proposes an amendment to the School Code, mandating that students who commit gross disobedience or misconduct, including actions via electronic means, be expelled for at least one year. The expulsion process involves a meeting with parents and a hearings officer to discuss the student's behavior. The decision must include a rationale, and the expelled student can be transferred immediately to an alternative school.

Davidsmeyer announced his support for this legislation in a news release on January 29. He noted that Peden's persistent efforts were crucial in moving her daughter's attacker to an alternative school through orders of protection. "Parents trust schools to ensure their children’s safety," Davidsmeyer said, emphasizing that the bill ensures "school administrators are doing everything they can to protect school children in their parents’ absence." He also said his intention to file identical legislation in the Illinois House of Representatives and thanked Senator Steve McClure and the Peden family for their advocacy.

Davidsmeyer has represented Illinois' 100th House District since his appointment in 2012. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Illinois, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Miami University in Ohio. His career includes serving as a legislative assistant to Congressman John Shimkus in Washington D.C., as well as roles as Operations Manager and Vice President at IRC Inc., along with service on the Jacksonville City Council.