Governor Pat Quinn was joined by legislators, community leaders and crime victims as he signed three new laws to increase assistance for crime victims and their families. The measures signed today will strengthen crime victims' rights, ensure that victims know their rights under Illinois law, and simplify the process for awarding victim compensation in Illinois. The governor signed the legislation to help crime victims as part of his commitment to increase public safety in Illinois. "As we continue working to reduce crime in Illinois, we want to ensure that any victim of a crime has the support they need," Governor Quinn said. "These measures will help victims receive emotional and financial piece of mind while recovering from a crime." House Bill 5187, sponsored by Rep. Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan) and Sen. Terry Link (D-Waukegan), increases the rights of crime victims by requiring law enforcement to provide a written copy of victim rights within 48 hours of their first contact. Law enforcement will also be required to explain the assistance that victims may be eligible for under the Crime Victims Compensation Act.