SPRINGFIELD – Insurance companies in Illinois would be required to cover screenings to detect ulcerative colitis, polyps, diverticulosis, Crohn's disease, cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions under legislation from State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove).

“If your doctor recommends a colonoscopy, you should be able to get one, regardless of your income level,” Johnson said. “This simple procedure could detect, or even prevent cancer—it could save your life.”

The legislation would require health insurance companies to cover the cost of a colonoscopy that has been deemed medically necessary after an initial screening. Patients could not be charged a deductible, coinsurance, copayment or other cost-sharing requirement for the procedure.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of cancer-related death for both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. However, if it is caught early, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate.

Not only can a colonoscopy screen for colorectal cancer—it is one of the only screening tests that can actually prevent colon cancer by finding and removing colon polyps before they become cancerous.

“Patients should be able to take control over their health and take advantage of preventive care services like colonoscopies,” Johnson said. “This legislation makes sure that insurance companies cover this life-saving, preventive screening.”

House Bill 2653 passed the Senate Insurance Committee Wednesday and now heads to the full Senate.

SPRINGFIELD – As Muslims worldwide observe Ramadan—a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community—State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) wants to ensure kids of every background can take part in cultural traditions without risking their health.

“Fasting is a common practice not just in the Muslim religion, but also in Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism and more,” Johnson said. “Especially for kids and teens, fasting can make people feel hungry, unfocused or even physically weak. It’s important that schools are sensitive to students’ needs when they might not be operating at full capacity.”

The legislation would allow students who are fasting for religious purposes to be excused from physical education activities for the duration of the religious fasting period, if the student’s parents have sent in written notification to the school principal.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast every day from sunrise to sunset as a form of spiritual discipline. Jewish people traditionally observe Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism, with a day-long fast and intensive prayer, and several Christian denominations practice full or partial fasting on certain occasions, including during Lent.

Fasting can cause dizziness, fatigue, headaches and dehydration, which may lead to weakness or fainting, especially during exercise.

“This is about our children’s health, safety and well-being,” Johnson said. “Every child, regardless of their background, deserves to feel comfortable at school.”

House Bill 160 passed the Senate Education Committee Tuesday. The measure was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Daniel Didech (D-Buffalo Grove).

BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) recently honored nearly 600 Lake County high school students who were named 2021-22 Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Illinois State Scholar winners rank in approximately the top 10% of the state’s high school seniors from 676 high schools in all 102 counties. Selection is based on a combination of standardized test scores and class rank or unweighted GPA at the end of the student’s junior year. ISAC works in conjunction with the students’ high school guidance counselors to determine the winners.

“Our community is beyond fortunate to have so many bright and hardworking students in our classrooms,” Johnson said. “Even in the face of so many unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, these students remained dedicated to success. I am thrilled to see them recognized on the state level for their perseverance.”

The Scholars from the 30^th District include 597 students from six area high schools, including Adlai E. Stevenson High School, Carmel High School, Cristo Rey St. Martin High School, Mundelein High School, Vernon Hills High School and Waukegan High School.

Recipients of the award will receive a congratulatory letter from ISAC, and a Certificate of Achievement will be sent to their high school. State Scholars will also receive a digital badge issued by ISAC that can be displayed on online profiles, exhibited on social media, and shared with prospective colleges and employers.

“Being named an Illinois State Scholar is not only a testament to a student’s academic abilities, but to their work ethic and commitment to excellence,” Johnson said. “I want to thank each and every one of these students for making their families and communities proud.”

More information about the State Scholar program can be found at ISAC’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – To encourage early detection and improve outcomes for Illinoisans with pancreatic cancer, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) spearheaded an initiative requiring health insurance plans to cover pancreatic cancer screenings.

“Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease,” Johnson said. “Early detection could make all the difference—it’s critical that screening is accessible and affordable for every Illinoisan.”

The measure would require all Illinois health insurance providers to cover medically necessary pancreatic cancer screenings starting Jan. 1, 2022.

SPRINGFIELD – To eliminate barriers to mental health care access for northern Illinoisans, State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) advanced a plan out of the Senate Wednesday to allow Illinois residents to be treated for mental health disorders at the private facility that’s closest to them, even if it’s across the Wisconsin border.

“For many Northern Illinois residents, getting treated in Wisconsin could allow them to stay closer to their homes and families,” Johnson said. “People in our community already work in Wisconsin, patronize Wisconsin businesses and even have family there—it just makes sense that individuals should be able to receive care there, too.”

The legislation would create the Interstate Contracts for Mental Health Disorder Treatment Act, allowing Illinois and Wisconsin residents who are involuntarily admitted for inpatient treatment of a mental health disorder to be treated at private facilities across state lines.

For residents who live near the border of Illinois and Wisconsin, the closest qualified hospital or facility is often not in their home state. However, current law prohibits residents from being committed for mental health conditions outside the state, meaning that these residents must undergo treatment hours from family and loved ones.

Similar collaborative arrangements have been successfully enacted in Michigan, Iowa and Minnesota, which allow providers in these states to accept patients from Wisconsin for mental health treatment.

“Mental health treatment shouldn’t take you hours away from your loved ones,” Johnson said. “This legislation makes it easier for Illinois residents to receive care that fits their needs.”

Senate Bill 1966 passed the Senate with bipartisan support and now heads to the House.

BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) released the following statement in response to news that former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin has been found guilty on all the counts he faced over the death of George Floyd:

“Over a year ago, George Floyd’s death spurred unrest across the nation. Today’s verdict offers some consolation that racism, bigotry and violence carry consequences.

“However, I am still not satisfied with this version of ‘justice’—no verdict could truly restore what has been lost. George Floyd’s daughter will still grow up without a father.

“In his memory, and in her honor, we will continue working toward true justice for all, building on the momentum of the activists that have laid the path for us, to create a better world for this generation and the next.”

BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) is seeking motivated, community-minded high school and college students to serve in her district office as interns.

“I want to give young people a chance to make a difference in our community while gaining valuable experience working in government,” Johnson said. “If you’re an energetic, driven student who’s interested in public service, I encourage you to apply to be a part of our team.”

Interns would take on an active role in Johnson’s office, helping plan events, assisting with outreach to community organizations and local governments, and researching legislative initiatives. Interns will primarily work remotely, but may be asked to attend in-person events with the senator when conditions allow.

The position requires a minimum commitment of five hours per week from May to August, but scheduling is flexible. Johnson’s office will work with interns seeking college credit for the internship.

Johnson’s staff is hiring interns on a rolling basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as they are able. Applicants should email Priyanka Khanna at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a resume and a brief explanation of their interest in joining the 30^th District team.

BUFFALO GROVE – Six projects valued at $43 million will improve roads, bridges and sidewalks across the East Lake County area, including four projects in the district State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) represents.

“Infrastructure improvements create jobs, spur economic growth, and allow residents, commuters and visitors in Lake County to travel safely,” Johnson said. “These investments will make all the difference for our region.”

This summer, motorists can expect the completion of a long-running construction project at the intersection of U.S. 41 (Skokie Highway) and Illinois 132 to remove and replace the Union Pacific Railroad bridge, reconstruct Grand Avenue, and widen the southbound U.S. 41 ramp.

Additionally, projects to resurface and install ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps on three roadways in the 30^th District are scheduled to begin this summer:

• S. 41 from Illinois 21 to Dorchester Avenue,
• Illinois 60 from Des Plaines River to Riverwoods Road, and
• Illinois 131 from Illinois 120 to Canadian National Railway.

Construction on these projects will be completed in the fall.

During this time, Johnson reminds drivers to be patient, allow extra time for travel, and drive cautiously in and around work zones.

“These projects are a victory for safety and mobility in our area, and they will continue to benefit our communities for years to come,” Johnson said. “Please take caution when driving in these areas over the next few months for your safety and the safety of our construction workers.”

The projects are made possible by Rebuild Illinois, a $33.2 billion program to invest in the state’s aging transportation system, create jobs and promote economic growth across Illinois.