Senate legislators highlight bills aimed at preventing fentanyl deaths

Posted on May 4, 2023
One measure requires all public high school students enrolled in health class to learn about the dangers of fentanyl (WJBC File Photo)

By IIS Radio

SPRINGFIELD – A group of senate lawmakers is highlighting legislation aimed at preventing fentanyl related deaths in Illinois.

One measure requires all public high school students enrolled in health class to learn about the dangers of fentanyl says Senator Laura Ellman of Naperville.

“This bill instructs school districts to talk about the risks and dangers of fentanyl, how to recognize the symptoms of the overdose and how to administer naloxone,” Ellman said.

Another bill requires large music venues to have opioid overdose medication on hand while a third makes fentanyl test strips more available.

Senator Karina Villa of West Chicago’s bill requires large music venues to have opioid overdose antidotes, like naloxone, available.

“When people go to these festivals and concerts, sometimes they make bad choices and bad decisions, but that should not cost them their lives,” Villa said.

IIS Radio can be reached at [email protected].

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