Community Corner
Yingling’s Bill to Address Teen Heroin Abuse Signed into Law
HAINESVILLE, Ill. – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, addressing the growing problem of heroin abuse in suburban high schools is now law.
“Heroin is one of the most dangerous and addictive substances on the planet, and its surge in use among teenagers in our suburban communities demands immediate action,” Yingling said. “Heroin abuse destroys lives and tears entire communities apart. That’s why it’s important to establish this task force and bring together parents, law enforcement officials, educators and lawmakers who are committed to standing against this deadly drug.”
Yingling’s House Bill 946 creates the Young Adults Heroin Use Task Force, charged with studying the problem of heroin abuse in Illinois and making recommendations for programs high schools can implement to increase education. The Task Force would be comprised of six members of the House, appointed by the legislative leaders and governor; members would serve without compensation.
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The bill, which is supported by a variety of substance-abuse awareness organizations including the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association, received bipartisan support in the House and Senate and was signed into law this week.
According to the Illinois Consortium on Drug Policy, nearly 3,000 Illinois children between the ages of 12 and 17 will use heroin on any given day. In recent years, emergency room reports mentioning heroin have increased by 8 percent among those under the age of 20, and 23 percent among those under the age of 30.
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“Teenagers need to know the risk heroin poses to their futures and their families, and parents and teachers need to know how to intervene and keep our children safe,” Yingling said. “This Task Force is an important tool in learning more about this problem, creating a plan of action and saving lives.”
Yingling represents the 62nd District, which contains portions of Gages Lake, Grayslake, Hainesville, the Round Lake communities, Wauconda and Wildwood.
