IL HB3420

Creates a new evidentiary standard in the Code of Criminal Procedure that presumes a defendant's creative or artistic expression (music, dance, visual art, poetry, literature, film, etc.) is inadmissible in criminal proceedings.

Requires prosecutors to prove by clear and convincing evidence that creative expression has literal (not figurative) meaning, directly connects to the specific crime alleged, addresses a disputed factual issue, and provides probative value beyond other available evidence.

Mandates an in-camera hearing outside jury presence for prosecutors to make their case before any creative expression evidence can be admitted.

Requires courts that admit such evidence to apply careful redactions, provide jury limiting instructions, and use the least prejudicial presentation method.