SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure aimed at addressing the increase in congenital syphilis cases in Illinois. 

“As congenital syphilis continues to rise in Illinois and across the country, this bill is important in advancing syphilis testing practices to ensure the health of a baby and the individual birthing them,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “It is incredibly important to catch syphilis while it is conventional and can be treated.”

Senate Bill 119 would require the second syphilis test conducted on pregnant individuals to be done between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy to ensure treatment can begin at least 30 days before delivery. The measure would also expand authorization to administer the test to health care professionals who are qualified in addition to physicians.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, congenital syphilis cases have tripled since 2020 in counties across the state. In 2023, 103 cases were reported compared to 29 cases in 2020.

“Congenital syphilis can be deadly. The alarming increase in cases requires us to be proactive on this issue,” said Villa. “Ensuring that pregnant individuals receive testing and treatment at the appropriate time is crucial in preventing any possible harm to them or their child.”

Senate Bill 119 passed the Senate Public Health Committee on Tuesday.