SPRINGFIELD – As more Illinoisans seek mental and behavioral health supports, a new law championed by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is designed to ensure the workforce can meet the demands. This workforce expansion bill was signed into law June 10, 2022.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Fine said. “With this law, we are able to reduce barriers to improve the mental health workforce so that all who are seeking mental and behavioral health care will have access to this necessary care.”
MAYWOOD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford's plan to create HIV/AIDS supportive servicies across Illinois disenfranchised communities was signed into law on Friday.
“In 2005, I led the creation of the African American HIV/AIDS Responsive Act in response to the specific impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Illinois disenfranchised communities, and now this law builds upon that act,” Lightford said. “Creating a Center of Excellence Biomedical Resource Hub for HIV/AIDS preventative care including supportive services is key in treating HIV-infected residents and preventing the continuous spread of this disease, which will help slow down the epidemic.”
Read more: HIV/AIDS resources to be created across Illinois because of Lightford’s efforts
CHICAGO – To make it easier for people to access HIV preventative care, State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) championed a recently signed law to allow pharmacists to provide HIV tests and preventative medications to help reduce new HIV infections.
Simmons’ law will allow pharmacists to dispense and administer drugs, order laboratory tests, and consult individuals on HIV pre-exposure drugs and post-exposure drugs. Pharmacists will first have to complete an educational training course on the administration of tests and medications prior to being permitted to assist patients.
Read more: New Simmons law to allow pharmacists to provide HIV testing, PrEP and PEP medications
SPRINGFIELD – The burden of silence many people face when returning to the workplace almost immediately following the loss of a pregnancy can cause emotional upheaval. State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) passed a newly signed law to allow people to take leave following pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or other fertility issues.
“The emotional anguish suffered after a miscarriage or stillbirth is often debilitating,” Bush said. “Returning to work sooner than they’d like leaves little room for grief, mourning and healing.”
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