Edly-Allen law to protect incarcerated pregnant individuals

SPRINGFIELD – To unify the policies and procedures in jails and prisons in Illinois keeping new and expectant mothers safe. State Senator Mary Edly-Allen worked alongside the Women’s Justice Institute (WJII) to introduce a new law, HB5431, providing comprehensive protections for committed pregnant people, including banning the use of restraints. As the number of incarcerated pregnant women has increased over the years, many of these pregnancies have been left without adequate support.

“This law aligns every jail and prison in Illinois to have safe policies and procedures when it comes to pregnant and postpartum incarcerated individuals,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “I am proud to see Illinois strengthen protections and ensure these policies are equitably and humanly applied under this law.”

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Stadelman law strengthens protections for victims of hazing

SPRINGFIELD – Victims of hazing will have new and strengthened protections thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to support and protect victims of crime,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “We are sending a clear message that consent obtained through duress, manipulation or an abuse of power will not be tolerated as a defense in our justice system. This law ensures that perpetrators cannot escape accountability by exploiting their victims.”

Stadelman’s new law mandates that consent from a victim does not absolve perpetrators from prosecution. This significant legislative change aims to reinforce the protections afforded to victims of crime and ensure justice is served.

“This legislation is about justice and fairness,” said Stadelman. “It acknowledges the complex dynamics at play in many criminal cases, especially those involving vulnerable populations. No one should feel powerless in the face of their abuser, and this law helps ensure that victims have the support and protection they deserve.”

Senate Bill 2934 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.

Glowiak Hilton law prohibits pharmacies from refusing paper prescriptions

SPRINGFIELD – In order to make medication more accessible to Illinoisans, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton’s new law prohibits pharmacists from refusing to fill a written prescription.

“Pharmacies must accept doctors’ prescriptions for approved medication regardless of how the prescription is sent to them,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Every Illinoisan deserves the right to their medication when they need it.”

In response to the opioid epidemic, Illinois passed a law in 2021 requiring prescriptions of controlled substance to be sent electronically. However, some pharmacists have been refusing to fill non-electronic prescriptions despite exceptions under the law. Glowiak Hilton’s new measure will clarify this process by prohibiting pharmacists from refusing to fill paper or non-electronic prescriptions.

“Denying someone of their medication could have serious medical consequences,” said Glowiak Hilton. “These are unnecessary barriers that must be addressed in our pharmacies to prevent potential harm.”

House Bill 4874 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.

Johnson law ensures quality air ventilation in public schools

SPRINGFIELD – Following growing concerns within the 30^th District about the health impacts of poor air quality, State Senator Adriane Johnson championed a vital new law that addresses and improves air quality in elementary and secondary schools.

“This law will have a significant impact on students with asthma and allergies by ensuring schools are equipped with the best resources and practices to maintain clean air,” said Johnson (D- Buffalo Grove). “This is a critical step in reducing health disparities and providing a safer, healthier environment for students, faculty and staff.”

Johnson’s law tasks the Illinois State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Department of Public Health, to compile resources to assess air quality and maintain ventilation systems in schools. ISBE will implement outreach strategies to make these resources available to elementary and secondary schools within 30 days of compilation, with updates as necessary.

“Establishing requirements for air quality monitoring is essential to ensuring all schools can proactively address and maintain healthy environments,” said Johnson. “The new law is setting a standard that prioritizes the well-being of our students and staff by keeping the air they breathe safe and clean.”

House Bill 4903 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.