Law OKs use of hearsay testimony

JOLIET, Ill., July 14 (UPI) -- A measure that would help prosecutors in the case of missing suburban Chicago mother Stacy Peterson is awaiting signature by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

Sponsors say the bill gives judges the discretion to allow statements into the record that previously would have been excluded by the hearsay rule, The Herald News newspaper in Joliet, Ill., reported Monday.

If the change becomes law, it might be used against Peterson's husband, Drew, whom state police have named as a suspect in her disappearance.

He is also suspected in the death of his previous wife, Kathleen Savio.

Stacy Peterson reportedly told a minister her husband admitted killing Savio.

Savio's bathtub drowning was originally ruled accidental but after Stacy Peterson's disappearance the case was reopened and Savio's death was ruled a homicide.

There is no word on whether Blagojevich will sign the measure.

Peterson's attorney says the proposed law will have no bearing on the case against his client.