SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Julie Morrison is leading a measure to curb substance use disorders.

“People suffering from a substance use disorder deserve access to the lifesaving treatment they need,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “I am committed to removing the barriers that insurance companies put in place.”

Recent studies have shown that most people who could benefit from medications for substance use disorders don’t receive treatment. In 2022, there were 3,261 opioid overdose fatalities in the state – more than twice the number of fatal vehicle accidents and homicides. Senate Bill 3741 would improve these statistics by increasing coverage of and access to treatment by prohibiting insurance from requiring prior authorization for the treatment of substance use disorders.

“When substance use disorders are treated on a large scale, crime rates go down and quality of life goes up,” said Morrison. “Increasing access to this treatment is imperative in our fight against the drug epidemic.”

Senate Bill 3741 passed the Senate Insurance Committee on Tuesday and moves to the full Senate for further consideration.