(720 ILCS 5/29D-5)
Sec. 29D-5.
Legislative findings.
The devastating consequences of the
barbaric attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11,
2001 underscore the compelling need for legislation that is specifically
designed to combat the evils of terrorism.
Terrorism is inconsistent with civilized society and cannot be
tolerated.
A comprehensive State law is urgently needed to complement federal
laws in the fight against terrorism and to better protect all citizens against
terrorist acts. Accordingly, the legislature finds that our laws must be
strengthened to ensure that terrorists, as well as those who solicit or provide
financial and other support to terrorists, are prosecuted and punished in State
courts with appropriate severity. The legislature further finds that due to the
grave nature and global reach of terrorism that a comprehensive law
encompassing State criminal statutes and strong civil remedies is needed.
An investigation may not be initiated or continued for activities
protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, including
expressions of support or the provision of financial support for the nonviolent
political, religious, philosophical, or ideological goals or beliefs of any
person or group.
(Source: P.A. 92-854, eff. 12-5-02.)
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