SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans will soon be able to donate unused prescription drugs for redistribution through State Senator Karina Villa’s (D-West Chicago) Prescription Drug Repository Program.

“As we fight to lower the cost of prescription drugs, it’s imperative that we work to provide alternatives to buying medication at the costly market value,” Villa said. “I-DROP will help ensure families are not forced to make the tough decision between paying bills or buying food and purchasing necessary prescription medication.” 

Anyone can donate certain prescription drugs or necessary supplies to administer a prescription drug under Villa’s Illinois Prescription Drug Repository Program (I-DROP). These items will be redistributed to eligible individuals who have been prescribed the medication, but who can’t afford it. 

"Until now, the only thing Illinoisans could do with unused prescription drugs was destroy them," said State Representative Will Guzzardi (D-Chicago), who sponsored the bill in the House. "Thanks to this new law, we'll be able to donate safe, unexpired drugs and get them into the hands of people who need them. It's a win-win for Illinois."

House Bill 119 was signed into law Monday and will take effect Jan. 1, 2022.