New Joyce-backed law will help combat opioid epidemic

• HB 1780
• Opioid Crisis
• Drug Take-Back

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to provide people with better options to discard opioids and other prescription medication, State Senator Patrick Joyce supported a law signed on Friday to create a statewide disposal program.

“Prescription drug abuse is dangerous, and many people can become addicted without even realizing it,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “Establishing a statewide drug take-back program provides options to safely dispose of prescription drugs and helps educate the public on the associated risks.”

While some counties in Illinois have already established similar programs, there is no statewide system in place that safely collects and disposes of medications, leaving some counties without a secure way to dispose of prescription substances.

Because of this, people may become addicted to opioids found sitting in their or their family’s medicine cabinets. Additionally, giving people an option to safely dispose of their unused medications rather than flushing them down the toilet or drain will prevent these substances from entering waterways and harming the ecosystem.

“This new law will protect our children and help prevent residents from forming addictions by giving people an option to dispose of prescription drugs,” Joyce said.

House Bill 1780 is now law and is effective immediately.

Joyce, Hurley: We are getting things done for our first responders

• HB 4161
• 100 Club
• First Responders

SPRINGFIELD – A Senator Patrick Joyce and Representative Fran Hurley measure to give taxpayers more opportunities to provide support and resources to first responders was signed into law Friday. 

“First responders put their lives on the line for our community and we should have an easier option to give back,” said Joyce (D-Essex).

House Bill 4161 aims to increase donations to the 100 Club of Illinois by making a convenient donation option on individual state income tax returns. The 100 Club of Illinois is a nonprofit that provides resources, financial support, training and moral support to both the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and active duty first responders. All sworn federal, state, county and local first responders stationed in Illinois are included.

Read more: Joyce, Hurley: We are getting things done for our first responders

Joyce breaks down barriers to get mental health professionals back in the workforce

• Mental Health
• SB 3617

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans will now have more access to mental and behavioral health specialists thanks to a law signed Friday supported by State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“This new law provides more access to mental health treatment,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “The aim is to break down barriers so people can get care when they need it.” 

In Illinois, there are only 14 behavioral health care professionals for every 10,000 Illinois residents. Many people are forced to wait longer for essential treatment or forego health care entirely because of this gap. This can be detrimental to their mental and physical well-being.

To address these issues, the new law focuses on expanding the current workforce. It accelerates the process for out-of-state clinicians applying for licensure in Illinois, as well as streamlines requirements for social workers, professional counselors, and clinical psychologists with licenses that have been inactive for five years. Additionally, it includes initiatives to support diversity in the mental health field, establishes tax credits, and includes provisions to improve quality and access to care for those seeking assistance.

The law, filed under Senate Bill 3617, takes effect immediately.

Joyce to hold mobile office hours in Kankakee

• Events
• Kankakee
• Mobile Office Hours

KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce’s office will be hosting mobile office hours at Grapes & Hops on Thursday, June 30 to increase accessibility to residents throughout the 40th District.

“These events give residents a more convenient way access me and my staff for legislative services,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “I look forward to having a conversation with those who are available to join me.”

The event will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Grapes & Hops located at 251 S. Schuyler Ave. in Kankakee.

Read more: Joyce to hold mobile office hours in Kankakee